Raphael Eugene Varela

Raphael Eugene “Gene” Varela triumphantly stepped into eternity on a night shimmering with celebration—New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2025. It feels fitting, almost destined, that Gene chose a moment when the world was awash in light and music. Those who love him can imagine the scene: a joyful reunion with his parents, siblings, nephews, and dear friends, all gathering to welcome him home.

Born on July 28, 1949, in the quiet beauty of Pecos, New Mexico, Gene’s life unfolded like a melody rooted in the community and land that shaped him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Juan R. and Trinidad O. Varela; brothers Billy and Gonzalo Varela; sisters Dolores (Johnny) Ortiz, Betty (Frank) Varela, Lorraine (Dick) Maley; and nephews James Varela, Jody Varela, Jason Varela, Keith Pedroni, John Pedroni, and Daryl Quintana. He leaves behind his daughter Jessica and her husband Aaron (Joshua and Sanaa), and generations of nieces and nephews who adore him and carry his light forward.

As the youngest of his siblings, Gene grew up surrounded by the love and steady guidance of his mother (Mrs. Varela), an educator and school principal, whose influence shaped his early years. He entered school ahead of his time, graduated from Pecos High School at 17, and soon after answered the call to serve in the United States Navy. His journey later led him to Northern New Mexico Barber School in El Rito, where he learned a craft that became more than a profession. At the historic Center Barber Shop in Santa Fe, Gene offered not just haircuts, but connection—stories shared, laughter exchanged, and friendships formed across decades.

Music was woven into the fabric of Gene’s life from the very beginning. Raised in a home filled with song and instruments, he discovered early the joy of rhythm and the thrill of performance. He often spoke of the moment, as a young boy, when he placed his hands on the piano while his sisters played—feeling the vibration, the energy, and the spark in his body that would stay with him forever. Mostly self‑taught, he followed that spark with devotion, becoming a gifted drummer and occasional vocalist. For more than 40 years, he traveled around New Mexico playing in various dance bands, lifting spirits, filling dance floors, and bringing people together through music.

Those who knew Gene will also remember his keen intellect and uncanny ability to generate quick-witted responses, often catching others off guard with his sharp, clever remarks and endless jokes. This rapid-fire thinking allowed him to maneuver conversations with ease, injecting humor and perception at just the right moments. He definitely had a way of keeping people on their feet, often leaving them laughing after walking right into one of his clever setups. His presence brought joy, and his spirit left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to share time with him.

A visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 12:00–2:00 p.m. at Daniel’s Family Funeral Service, 2400 Southern Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. A Catholic Mass and burial are being planned for Summer 2026, with details to follow.