Nellie Maria Lavadie

Nellie Maria Lavadie was born on February 18, 1942, in Monte Vista, Colorado, to Zack and Cyria Sanchez. She attended Grand Junction High School and later built her life in Grand Junction, Colorado, where she married Robert Raymond Lavadie.

Nellie worked for several years at Western Sizzlin and was known for her warm heart, friendly nature, and dedication to those around her.

She lived life with joy and enthusiasm. Nellie loved to dance and never hesitated to sing—especially her favorite song, “The Rose” by Bette Midler. She delighted in playing Bingo, bowling, cooking for family and friends, attending church, and enjoying her beloved coffee.

Family meant everything to Nellie. She is survived by her daughters, Percilla Juntilla and Pauline Heugly of Utah; her sons, Ray (Kelly) Lavadie of Pennsylvania and Paul Lavadie of Colorado; her brother Zack (Liz) of New Mexico; and her sister Margaret (Ralph) Salaz of Colorado. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Zack and Cyria Sanchez; her sisters Mercy, Martha, and Esther; and her brother Joe.

Special Acknowledgment

The family extends a heartfelt and special thank-you to her nieces, Terry Clark and Colleen Elliott, for the extraordinary love, care, and support they gave to their Aunt Nellie, and to Nellie’s grandson, Isaac, for the love and devotion he showed his grandmother.

Forever in Our Hearts

Nellie will be lovingly remembered for her beautiful singing voice, her joyful spirit, her love of family, and the countless memories she created with those she cherished.