Leslie Anne Whittet, born on August 31, 1960, in Washington, D.C., passed away on November 30, 2025. She is survived by her sister, Tracey Leigh Whittet (husband James R. Hilderbrandt), of Santa Fe, NM; her nephew, Dylan James Burrell, of Littleton, CO; cousins Joan Whitehouse Lovett, Doug and Kathy Price, Martha and Ted Scholz, Todd and Mary Price, Scott Whittet and Andrea Lytle, Margorie L. Reardon; and numerous cherished friends, including Paula Saranac, and Allen Blowers, "the Susans" and Stephanie. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and David Whittet.

Leslie had immense curiosity and a spirit made for adventure. A devoted traveler for both work and pleasure, she explored the world with an open mind and heart, always interested to learn more about local culture, art, and cuisine. Her beloved dog, Mel Tormé, was never far behind.

On a peaceful daily morning stroll with Mel, both were tragically struck by a distracted truck driver who failed to stop at a neighborhood intersection. Despite nine days of extraordinary care from the trauma and nursing teams at the University of New Mexico Hospital, her injuries were simply too severe for recovery. Mel is recovering from his injuries.

Leslie was immensely proud of her career as an association leader, where she strengthened professional communities in mergers & acquisitions and risk management. She was a champion for emerging professionals and a generous mentor whose influence stretched from Boston to Chicago, Denver, and, most recently, New Mexico.

We miss her fiercely-her wit, her warmth, her passion, and her unmistakable laugh. Leslie would want us to celebrate her life, not mourn her passing.

A memorial service to celebrate Leslie's life will be held Monday, January 19, 2026, at 11:00 am at French Funerals and Cremations - Westside Chapel followed by a reception at the family home.

Please honor Leslie with a donation to one of these local charities in her memory instead of sending flowers:

Animal Humane New Mexico or Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women.