Sophia Autumn Barraza

Sophia Autumn Barraza (Shatzer), age 40, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on March 4, 2026. She was born on September 19, 1985, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, the same place where she would later dedicate herself to caring for others as a Certified Nursing Assistant while working toward completing her Registered Nurse degree at Galen College of Nursing.

Sophia had a natural gift for caring for people. Her work in healthcare reflected the compassion, empathy, and strength that defined her life. She was passionate about helping others and was close to completing her nursing degree, a goal she pursued with determination and pride.

Above all else, Sophia loved her family. Her greatest joy in life was her children: Francisco Barraza II, Sonya Barraza, Jacie Ford, and Troy Ford. She also cherished her bonus children Taylor Hornbeck, Jayden Ford, and Kaylee Ford, loving them as her own. Her children were the center of her world, and she poured her heart into every moment spent with them.

Sophia loved life and lived it fully. She enjoyed traveling with her family, cooking incredible meals for those she loved, and bringing people together. She loved dancing, singing, and listening to music, and she had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Whether it was camping, fishing, hunting, or hosting barbecues and family gatherings, Sophia made sure life was full of laughter, memories, and time spent together.

She had a huge heart and an unforgettable sense of humor. Known for her playful and sometimes crude jokes, Sophia loved pulling pranks and doing anything she could to make others laugh and smile. Her energy, warmth, and ability to make everyone feel welcome made her unforgettable.

Sophia is survived by her loving husband, Jason Ford; her children Francisco Barraza II, Sonya Barraza, Jacie Ford, and Troy Ford; and her bonus children Taylor Hornbeck, Jayden Ford, and Kaylee Ford. She is also survived by her mother, Monica Mobley; her father, Joseph Shatzer; her brothers DeWayne Mobley, Shawn Mobley, and John Andrew Shatzer; her sister Maelea Saunders; and her bonus brother Francisco Mendez, her niece and nephews, Victoria Sarmiento, Aya Mobley, Gracelynn Sunny Rose Bradshaw, and Bo Matthew Mobley; along with many extended family members and countless friends whose lives she touched.

Sophia had a special way of connecting with people. As many who knew her would say: If you met her once, you were a friend. If you were lucky enough to meet her twice, you were family.

Her love, laughter, and vibrant spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Sophia taught those around her the true meaning of joy, kindness, and generosity. She had a way of turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories and leaving every room brighter than she found it. Though she is gone, her spirit, her laughter, and her love will remain with us forever.

Public Viewing will be held at Culbertson-Smith Mortuary on Thursday, March 12, 2026 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM 115 S. Seneca Wichita, KS 67213

Memorial Service TBD