LaRue Jean Lara

LaRue Lara, age 82, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, in Greeley, Colorado. Born on June 24, 1943, in Lamar, Colorado, LaRue lived a life filled with love, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

A graduate of Adams City High School, LaRue carried her passion for nurturing young minds into a meaningful career as a substitute teacher. For 26 years, she brought warmth, patience, and kindness to classrooms across her community, touching the lives of countless children. Her gentle guidance and steady presence left an indelible mark on generations of students.

LaRue's heart belonged to her family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Reymundo Lara, with whom she shared 44 years of marriage and a life full of laughter, adventure, and deep companionship. Together they raised four children: Brenda Barrick, Tammy Offen, Nathan Lara, and Marisa Price. LaRue is also survived by her mother, Alma Evangeline Rountree and her brother Larry Rountree. LaRue was also a proud and loving grandmother to nine grandchildren—James, Drew, Justin, Angelo, Geno, Jordanna, Timothy, Selena, and Savanna—each of whom brought immense joy to her life.

She was preceded in death by her father, Leonard Rountree, who passed away on December 19, 2008 and her sister Marilyn Wilson who passed away on July 10, 2007.

LaRue had a joyful spirit that shone through in everything she did. She had an eye for hidden treasures and delighted in exploring flea markets and garage sales. Her love for cooking—especially Mexican food—was well known among family and friends. Mealtimes were often celebrations in her home, where delicious dishes were served with generous helpings of love and laughter.

Sundays in the fall were sacred to LaRue—not only for worship but also for NFL football. She was an enthusiastic fan who never missed a game. Her support extended far beyond the television screen; she was a constant presence at her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events. Whether cheering from the sidelines or traveling to Montrose to visit her daughter Brenda—a trip she especially cherished—LaRue's dedication to her family knew no bounds.

Faith was the cornerstone of LaRue’s life. She held a strong and steady belief in God and found great joy in attending church. Her compassion and humility were reflections of that faith—a quiet strength that guided her actions and inspired those around her.

LaRue also shared many adventures with Reymundo. Whether embarking on family visits or indulging in spontaneous shopping trips to catch a great sale, their time together was filled with love and laughter.

Her vibrant spirit, boundless generosity, and deep love for those around her will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort and peace to those she leaves behind.

Visitation will be held at Adamson Life Celebration Home on Tuesday September 30th, 2025 from 5pm – 7pm

Life Celebration will be on Friday October 3rd, 2025 10AM at Greeley Baptist Church with burial to follow at a later date.