Stephanie Huerta-Branch

STEPHANIE HUERTA-BRANCH MAY 6, 1968 – APRIL 8, 2017 Sculptor, painter, firedancer, welder, archer, beekeeper, botanist, fisherwoman, actress, model, strider, exquisite cook, shamanesqe healer, mother, wife, daughter, sister and friend to all who had the fortune of knowing her. Born in Ramapo, NY, migrated to Seminole, FL and graduated ‘Best of Class’ from Ringling School of Art & Design in Sarasota, FL. Prior to moving to Tesuque then Santa Fe, Stephanie freelanced for Universal Studios and Nickelodean Studios. Her sculptures and paintings can be found in collections across the nation and the world, from the College Football Hall of Fame to her bronze bas relief of Pope John Paul II, a part of the Vatican’s permanent collection. Stephanie’s love of the wilderness and all creatures big and small inspired much of her work and activism. Her energy and beauty touched everyone and her determination is legendary. Her years of spinning fire and choreography at Zozobra are very special memories for so many people. She taught us well how to love the earth and how to have the most fun out of every precious moment we have on it. At the end she said, “It’s beautiful, let’s celebrate.” Stephanie is survived by her husband Dennis, daughter Savannah, son Bison, Santa Fe, NM. Parents Elizabeth and Raul Huerta, St. Petersburg, sister Christine (Scotia) Tampa, brother Anthony (Laura) Palm Harbor, FL. Brother David (Carrie) Evergreen, CO. Mother in Law, Marcella Branch, Santa Fe. Nieces, Erica, Alex, Aubrey, Emma, Marce. Nephews, Andrew, Kyle. Many cousins, aunts and uncles from New Mexico to Puerto Rico and cherished friends worldwide including a vast artist community and the Sisters of the Sacred Spiral. In lieu of flowers please donate to Prairie Dog Pals in Albuquerque in Stephanie’s name. We will have a memorial service fittingly on Earth Day, 1 pm, April 22nd at the Kiva Chapel at Rivera Family Funerals 417 East Rodeo Rd. Santa Fe, NM 87505