Georgianna Rae Villardi

Georgianna Rae “Gigi” Villardi (Downs), 74, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Born on October 28, 1950, in Augusta, Georgia, she lived a life marked by resilience, generosity, and unwavering faith.

Gigi was the beloved wife of Tom Villardi, with whom she shared 47 years of love and partnership, and the devoted mother of four children: Rusty Peck and his wife Christine; Brandon Villardi and his wife Kelly; Jessica Paxton and her husband Robert; and Kristina Villardi. She was a proud grandmother to Courtney and Cameron Peck, Annabelle, Lucas and Alexa Villardi, and Austin, Charlotte, and Katelyn Paxton. Her family was the heart of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard Downs and Inez Corrine Daughenbaugh, as well as her sisters Janice Hicks and Kathy Johnson.

Gigi’s deep Catholic faith was a cornerstone of her life. As an active member of Our Lady of Las Vegas parish, she gave generously of her time and heart through organizations like the Women’s Guild and the Knights of Columbus. Her spiritual journey took her on meaningful pilgrimages to Ireland and Scotland with her church community, as well as to the Holy Land—experiences that deepened her devotion and brought her faith to life. She was also a proud direct descendant of Myles Standish, a legacy she honored with quiet dignity and heartfelt respect for her family’s rich history.

She bravely battled pancreatic cancer with courage, grace, and dignity. Even during the hardest moments, she continued to uplift those around her, offering strength, laughter, and love until the very end.

She found joy in simple pleasures. She loved reading and spent countless hours crocheting blankets—each stitch a testament to her care for others. She was also known for her legendary cooking, especially her rich spaghetti sauce and her crisp, tangy homemade pickles. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, welcome, and joy.

As a grandmother for over 30 years, Gigi was both compassionate and fun. She always showed up, cheering from the sidelines, attending every recital, and celebrating every milestone. Her grandchildren will remember her giggles, hugs, and her unwavering presence. She made each of them feel like the most important person in the world, a constant source of love and support through every chapter of their lives.

Those who knew Gigi remember her as resilient in the face of any storm, resourceful when challenges arose, and generous with both time and spirit. Her strength uplifted others, offering comfort during difficult times and joy during moments of celebration. She nurtured deep friendships and had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and loved.

Gigi’s legacy is one of compassion, perseverance, and unconditional love. She leaves behind not only a family who adored her, but a community enriched by her presence. Her memory will continue to live on in the lives she touched and the lessons she imparted, especially the importance of kindness, faith, and showing up for the people you love.

A Memorial Service will be held on May 31, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Las Vegas, 3050 Alta Dr. A reception will follow in the church hall.

May Gigi’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love, faith, and kindness will live on in every life she touched.