Obituary of Celestina Arias Barajas

Celestina Arias Barajas, 102, passed away in her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born May 19th, 1921 in Alamo, Texas. She spent 40 years of her life living in Guanajuato, Mexico. She then migrated to Salinas and resided here for 62 years. Celestina was a devout Catholic and held on to her faith until the very end.

Celestina was a proud mother 9 living children, and 3 angel babies. She worked diligently to care and provide for her entire family by being a seamstress and ultimately, working in the fields of Salinas. She believed in the power of the United Farm Workers, marched alongside Dolores Huerta and the late Cesar E. Chavez; and was a member until her passing.

Once retired, she became an extraordinary caregiver to her grandchildren; who became to be known as “Nana”. Although she did not have the privilege to attend formal school, she truly believed that education was the path to better oneself.

Celestina is survived by her husband, Josafat Arias, 8 children, 19 grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Feliciana Bernardino, father, Eusebio Barajas, and second eldest son, Bernardo Arias.

Celebration of Mass will be held Tuesday, October 3rd, 2023 at 2:00pm at Cristo Rey Church, 240 Calle Cebu, Salinas, CA 93901.