Mary Dolores Padilla (Lolly)

Dolores (Lolly) Padilla, 74, of Los Lunas, New Mexico, passed peacefully, on Saturday, December 2, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Dolores was born in Polvadera, NM, on July 16, 1949, and she lived a life made rich by sharing beauty, kindness, and generosity with those she encountered. She treasured her grandkids and had a very special love for each of her children. Dolores had so many talents, to include cooking, arranging flowers, planning events, and telling stories. As a professional, she worked hard to serve others, first in Human Services for the state of New Mexico, and later as an Allstate agent. As a rock for her family and her community, she offered a listening ear and support beyond measure. Her faith grew over time, just as her impact will continue to grow even though she has returned to paradise. Her beautiful soul left a lasting impression on many and her legacy will continue to make ripples of positive change in our community. Her love knew no bounds and her generosity will continue to shine a light for those who will remember her.

Dolores (Grandma Lolly) had the most beautiful hands. Those hands could do anything, and she used them to be of service to her family, extended family, and those blessed enough to be called her friends. She was a determined woman and lived a life of purpose. Her unique laugh, sense of style, generosity, compassion, and loving spirit made a lasting impression on all, and she truly left everyone and everything better just by her presence. She will continue to be the "Whisper" we all hear and she will be greatly missed by so many.

Dolores is survived by her husband of 55 years, Daniel (Dan) Padilla; daughter, Melissa Padilla-Oberg; son, Danny Padilla and daughter-in-law, Tanya; and son, Richie Padilla; seven grandchildren, Destry and Drayton Oberg, Kylee, Krissy, Kennedy, Wyatt, Terrell, Elijah, and Natalie Padilla; and four great grandchildren, Mason and Madalin Oberg, and Urijah and Christian Cable. She was not only a loving wife, grandma, and great-grandma, but was also a loving sister to her sisters-in-law, Pauline Jaramillo, Elaine Padilla, Barbara Gonzales and her husband Robert; her sister, Rowena Romero and her husband, Gene; and her very best friend (Comadre), Loretta Casillas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Eloisa Gonzales, and her brother, Michael Sarracino.

When thinking about his bride, Dan prays, "My wish for you is that the angels will lead you straight to the Lord. I will love you forever and ever." Their love is the love of newlyweds, a love that will last beyond "till death do us part," a love that reminds us all to selflessly care for our loved ones. Dan's love for Lolly reminds us to seek heaven on earth, and Lolly's love for her family and friends will continue to be a blessing to us all.

A private family viewing was held on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at French's Funeral Home. Her funeral will be held at San Miguel Parish in Socorro, NM, on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, with the Rosary at 10:00 am with Mass to follow at 10:30 am. Honorary pallbearers will be her grandchildren. A private family burial will follow at the San Lorenzo Catholic Cemetery in Polvadera, NM.