Phaedra Celeste Pieper

Phaedra (Phae) Celeste Pieper, a beloved mother, partner, daughter, sister, aunt and cousin, passed away peacefully on February 22nd, 2025, at her home in Colorado Springs, surrounded by those who loved her. Born on January 29th, 1985, at home in Manitou Springs, CO, to Jeannine Gabrielene Cabanellas Kidwell and William Dean Pieper, Phaedra was the youngest of three children, with two older brothers, Gabriel Pieper and Raphael Zachariah Pieper. She was raised on the west side of Colorado Springs, attending Midland Elementary, West Junior High school, graduating from Dougherty High School in 2003 and studied at University of Colorado. She also recently achieved receiving an Honorary Doctor of Metaphysics Degree with a certification as a Universal Philosopher of Absolute Reality.

Phaedra is survived by her mother, Jeannine Gabrielene Cabanellas Kidwell; her stepfather, Kerry Guy Kidwell; her father, William Dean Pieper; and her in-laws, Mary Katherine Jenks and John Lee Jenks.

Phaedra's legacy lives on through her children Camillia Gabriella Caldwell and son Elijah Optimus Ayala (father, Alberto Ayala II), her dog Neiko, and her partner Jason Edward Caldwell. She is also survived by her brother Gabriel Pieper and his wife Angela Christina Pieper, their children Isis Aaliyah Pieper and Chailyn Sage Pieper, and her brother Raphael Zachariah Pieper. Additionally, she is cherished by a large extended family, including uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Phaedra was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Melba Venable; her maternal grandfather, Efren Jesus Cabanellas; her step-grandmother, Cecile Coffelt; her aunt, Camillia (Tina) Cabanellas; her uncle, Jeffery Cabanellas; and her cousins, Julia Dugan and Steve Fritzen. On her father’s side, she was preceded by her grandmother, Patricia Pieper; her grandfather, George William Pieper; her aunt, Lori Salinas; and her cousin, Austin Pieper.

Phaedra was a deeply loving and compassionate soul who poured her heart into every relationship she had. She was a nurturing force for her children, Elijah and Camillia, and her partner, Jason. Her love and care extended beyond her immediate family, as she was a devoted aunt and cousin, always offering her warmth and support to her extended family. Phaedra’s generosity knew no bounds-she was a giver in every sense, with a forgiving heart and a remarkable intellect.

Her dog, Neiko, held a special place in her heart, providing comfort and companionship. Phaedra lavished him with attention, and her concern for his well-being was so great that she took him to the vet the very week of her passing, despite not feeling well herself. Her nurturing nature was a gift to all who knew her, and her memory will live on in the love she shared and the many lives she touched.

From childhood to adulthood, Phaedra always had a playful spirit and a great sense of humor, often joking that she would grow up to be a comedian. Her wit and infectious laughter made her a joy to be around, and she had a unique way of making friends quickly and keeping them for a lifetime. Her natural charisma and kindness drew people to her wherever she went.

Phaedra’s passion for life was evident in everything she did. She was an ardent supporter of the Denver Nuggets, though she had little love for the new Rocky mascot. Her enthusiasm for politics and social causes was unwavering, and she dedicated much of her time to supporting organizations and initiatives that aligned with her values. Phaedra’s creative spirit shone brightly in everything she touched, from her beautiful drawings and pottery to her impeccable sense of style in both interior design and fashion.

As a child, Phaedra was involved in performing arts and dancing, showcasing her vibrant energy and artistic flair. She also had a love for reading, always seeking knowledge and new stories to explore. In her youth, she played the violin and was a proud member of community basketball teams, balancing her artistic and athletic passions. Music was another love of Phaedra's, and she found joy in the sounds of artists like The Beatles, Amy Winehouse, and Tool.

Phaedra channeled her creativity and passion into her small business, Phaedra’s Aesthetics at Legacy Spa, where she was deeply committed to helping others look and feel their best. As a licensed esthetician, she took great pride in empowering women through self-care, boosting their confidence, and making a lasting impact on their lives. Her dedication to her clients went beyond beauty, offering a sense of renewal and well-being that was truly transformative.

Phaedra’s spirit will forever be remembered in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her immense love, wisdom, creativity, and sense of humor enriched every life she touched. While she may no longer be with us in person, her memory will live on through her children, her family, her friends, and the many lives she changed with her warmth and kindness. A ceremony honoring her life will be held at Swan Law Funeral Home at 501 N. Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 on Saturday March 1st, 2025 at 10am, where we will gather to honor and remember the incredible woman she was. May Phaedra’s memory be a light, guiding us all as we move forward in love and remembrance.