Jesse Matthew Barrera

CRANE Jesse Matthew Barrera, 29, aka Cowboy, of Iraan, Texas, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on the morning of Jan. 1, 2014. He was born to Jesse and Lupe Barrera Feb. 8, 1984, in Iraan, Texas. He was raised in Big Lake, Texas, where he attended school graduating from Reagan County High School in 2002. He was a running back on the football team, lettering in his freshman year of high school. He enjoyed the game so much that he would put his heart and soul into it, resulting in his number 25 always being in the starting line-up. Years later, he returned to play in the alumni team against the Ozona Lions. His other sport was playing co-ed softball, in which he also excelled. He participated in many other school activities to include being a 4-H member. He loved the country way of life and anything western. He bought a horse, and became a pretty good roper earning the name "Cowboy" from his maternal grandfather who himself was a real cowboy. At age nine, Jesse was baptized by his maternal grandfather at the First Baptist Church of Big Lake. Jesse was not a Christian in name only, he truly lived the life. He would go out of his way to help others never asking for anything in return. In 2004, he went to Masters Commission of Dallas, a discipleship program, graduating in 2005. During his tenure he ministered around the world leading people to Christ, serving whole heartedly, giving of himself in any way that he could. He never met a stranger. His favorite saying when talking about Christ was "To know Him is to make Him known." His contagious smile and positive attitude consistently displayed the type of man he was. He was a great example and role model for all whom he came in contact with. He will be missed immensely by all who knew him but his memory will forever be imprinted in our hearts and minds. After returning home he worked for Barrera Contractors in Iraan for several years, always enthusiastic and willing to improve he bought his own truck leasing it to the company for a period of time. Later he worked for West Oil Field (WTO). Again seeking upward mobility, he moved to Oil Field Haulers in Odessa Texas, where he was quickly promoted to pusher, a true indication of his character and unique ability to lead others. Jesse's raising, values, and work ethic made him the perfect family man. He married Kimberly Alexander Barrera at the First Baptist Church of Iraan on Sept. 1, 2007. Together they have two beautiful children, Ethan and Natalee. He always took time for his family, from participating in his children's activities to spending time with his beloved wife. He loved his family so much that he always posted his affection on Facebook for the entire world to see. He was a wonderful husband and father who always worked hard to provide the best for his family. A well rounded man, Jesse consistently wanted to give back to the community in which he lived. He was an active member of the Iraan Fire Department. Celebrating his arrival in Heaven are his maternal grandparents, Elpidio and Hortencia Barrera; paternal grandparents, Jesus and Oralia Barrera; his aunt, Adelita Tarin; his cousin, Thomas Christopher Barrera; and nephews Jesse and Angel Carrasco. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Kimberly Barrera; son Ethan; daughter Natalee of Iraan, Texas; parents Jesse and Lupe Barrera of Big Lake Texas; brother Earnest Barrera and wife Adrianna of Iraan; sisters Maybell Carrasco and husband Alfredo of Big Lake Texas, Emma Williams and husband Daniel of San Antonio Texas and Melida Barrera and fiance Kevin of Dallas, Texas; and many uncles, aunts, and cousins too numerous to mention. Flowers may be sent to First Baptist Church in Iraan. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been set up for the family at Tejas Bank in Iraan, and Wells Fargo Bank in Odessa. Pallbearers will be Carlos Esquivel, Frankie Avalos, Freddie Carrasco, Jr Guevara, Robert Guevara, Sylvester Barrera, Tony Barrera, Ricky Barrera, Jr., Tony O. Barrera, Rudy Barrera, Jr., Daniel Price, Brian Portillo, Mickey Alexander, Joe Louis Parra and Jose Ramos. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday and Tuesday at First Baptist Church in Iraan, Texas. Services will be at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2014, with Pastor Mike Wright officiating with graveside services to follow. Also there will be a meal following the services as a token of our appreciation. A guestbook is available to share your condolences with the family at www.shaffer-nichols.com. Services are entrusted to Shaffer Nichols Funeral Home in Crane, Texas.