Obituary of Ina Claire Quintanilla

Ina Claire Quintanilla, 77, beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother passed away peacefully in her home, on Thursday, March 14, 2024, with family members present.

Ina was born June 5, 1946, in New Orleans, Louisiana to Verna Mae August. She grew up in New Orleans with her four younger siblings. She graduated from McDonogh No 35 Senior High School in 1963. While in High School Ina performed in the choir and was a majorette.

Upon graduation, Ina moved to Los Angeles, Ca and lived with her Mother and best Dad, Paul Barbarin Sr. She attended Los Angeles City College and studied dance and music. She was employed by Sears, Roebuck and company in the catalog department, where she would later meet her future husband Rudy. She graduated from National Airlines Academy in December 1968. She was one of the first black stewardesses for National and met Beryle De Tora, a lifelong friend.

Ina Married Rudy Jose Quintanilla on September 5, 1970, at St Anselm Church in Los Angeles, Ca. They had three children, Jayson, Carlos and Catrina. Ina took an active part in her children’s activities. She was their cheerleader during soccer, basketball, and dance activities. Ina volunteered for the PTA and library.

Ina was gracious, catholic, loving, faithful, and loyal. She loved her Father, Mother, Siblings and extended family. She was a big sister to her younger siblings. Ina nurtured them, helping to teach them manners, taking them to restaurants and musicals. 

Ina was a dedicated Mom, enjoying family and friend’s company. She was a great cook, she learned from her Mom. She loved musicals and enjoyed reading. Ina had Joy on her face everytime her grandchildren came to visit, she loved all of them. Ina had a passion for music. She had a beautiful voice and was a graceful dancer. She recorded “A Time For Us”, which was played at the conclusion of her wedding ceremony. Ina traveled the world and enjoyed her visits to Solvang and Yosemite with family and special friends.

We thank our family and friends for their support, love, and prayers. Ina battled the most severe of illnesses like a true warrior. She is now at rest. We thank Doctors Dean, Cheng, Johnston, and Kwan for taking care of Ina. Hospice and caregivers kept Ina comfortable at the end.

Ina is survived by her mother, Verna Mae Barbarin; her beloved husband of 53 years, Rudy J. Quintanilla; her son, Jayson Quintanilla and his wife Marie, her son Carlos Quintanilla and his girlfriend Sarah; Daughter, Catrina Walker and her Husband James; Three grandchildren, Lando, Jada and Faith; two sisters, Paulette Radcliff and Leslie Cooper and her husband Barry; two brothers, Anthony Barbarin and his wife Pashion, Kevin Barbarin and his wife Jann as well as many nieces and nephews. Ina is preceded in death by her father Paul Barbarin Sr.