Laurie Anne Padilla

In Loving Memory of Laurie Anne Padilla

Laurie Padilla was born on September 7, 1961, at St. Anthony Central Hospital in Denver, Colorado. She was a strong, loving, and devoted woman whose life was centered around her family and the people she loved most.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Maria and Vidal Padilla; her grandparents, Daniel and Mary Martinez; her sister, Diana Padilla; her uncle, Daniel Martinez; and other cherished family members and loved ones.

Laurie is survived by her sister, Lisa Fraire; her brother, Vidal Padilla (Jenni White); and her beloved nieces and nephews, Paul Martinez, Dominique Fraire, Amanda Rubio, Maria Rubio, Vidal Padilla Jr. (Megan Kelso), Angelique Fraire, Isaiah Padilla (Benjamin Albo), Dominick Rouleau, Vanity Padilla, Jon Jon Padilla, Kathleen Padilla, Nathaniel Rubio, Evie Rubio, Jovan Padilla, aunt and uncle, Cathy and Robert Aguero, along with several cousins and many other loved ones.

Laurie began her career with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1978. She retired from the EPA on February 27, 2021, leaving behind a long and meaningful career.

After losing her father in 1992, Laurie and her mother became inseparable. Their bond was incredibly special, and together they created a home filled with love, family, and faith. Laurie devoted much of her life to caring for her family and helping raise her nieces and nephews, loving and guiding them as if they were her own children. To her nieces and nephews, Laurie was so much more than an aunt—she was a mother figure, a protector, a teacher, and someone they could always count on.

Laurie lived a life filled with strength, dedication, and service. In her younger years, she earned her black belt in Tae Kwon Do, demonstrating the determination and discipline that would remain a part of who she was throughout her life. She was deeply involved in the lives of her nieces and nephews and supported them in their school activities. She even served as a volleyball coach for many years, always encouraging and cheering on the young people she loved.

Laurie’s faith was also an important part of her life. She and her mother were longtime members of the choir at Presentation of Our Lady and had the incredible honor of performing in front of the Pope. These experiences were a meaningful part of Laurie’s life and reflected the love of family, faith, and community that she carried with her.

In 2026, Laurie was diagnosed with breast cancer. She faced a difficult and courageous battle with the same strength and determination she had shown throughout her life. Laurie fought until the very end. She was strong not only for herself, but for her family, always finding a way to lead, protect, and guide those she loved.

Laurie leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love. She gave so much of herself to her family and touched the lives of countless people through her kindness, strength, faith, and unwavering devotion.

You will be missed each and every day. You were a beautiful person inside and out, and the love you gave us will remain in our hearts forever. Your family will carry your memory with them always.

Rest peacefully, Laurie. We love you, and we will never forget you.