Geraldine Carol Padgett

Geraldine Carol Padgett, affectionately known as Gerry and Gigi, passed away on October 26, 2026, at the age of 92. Born March 24, 1934, Gerry was the daughter of Blanche and Theodore Bachta of Lawrence, Massachusetts, and carried forward a life marked by steady purpose, devoted service, and enduring care for others. She was a resident of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Gerry pursued her calling in nursing with determination and discipline. She received her nursing degree from Mt. St. Mary’s College in Hooksett, New Hampshire, and Sacred Heart School of Nursing in Manchester, New Hampshire, later specializing in surgery at University Bellevue Hospital in New York City, New York. Her commitment to healing and professionalism naturally extended into military service when she entered the Army Nurse Corps, was commissioned as a Lieutenant, and completed basic training at Ft. Sam Houston, Texas.

Throughout her Army career, Gerry served in a range of assignments that reflected both skill and readiness wherever she was needed, including Ft. Belvoir, Virginia; the 279th Station Hospital in Berlin, Germany; the United States Army Hospital in Bussac, France; Ft. Bliss, Texas; Ft. Ord, California; and, lastly, Ft. Carson, Colorado.

It was at the 279th Station Hospital in Berlin, Germany, where Gerry met and married her husband (Bobby), and they welcomed their son, Bobby II. While stationed at the United States Army Hospital in Bussac, France, they delivered their daughter Deborah at their military residence in Blaye, France. In time, they chose to retire in Colorado—Gerry coming from Massachusetts and Bob from Georgia, “totally opposites,” yet building a life rooted in shared dedication and family.

In the years that followed, Gerry continued to give of herself in ways both practical and generous. She provided private swim lessons from her home in Widefield, Colorado, and for many years greeted patrons at the Widefield Pool for early swim classes—offering a familiar presence and a steady welcome. She also assisted many organizations by setting up BINGO at the KC Hall in Security. Gerry was a life member of VFW Post 3917 and the Women’s Memorial Foundation.

Gerry is survived by a son, Bobby G. Padget II of Seattle, Washington, and a daughter, Deborah A. Woodrum (Anthony) of Goodyear, Arizona. She is also survived by granddaughters Christina McGeehan (spouse Reid of Widefield, Colorado) and Amanda Sewell (spouse Antoine of Arizona), and great granddaughters Sarah McGeehan and Arraya Sewell.

Gerry was preceded in passing by her beloved great granddaughter Alahni Sewell.

After her cremation, Gerry will be placed alongside her husband’s vault in the wall at Pikes Peak National Cemetery. Donations may be made to Wounded Warriors.