Debra "Debbie" Lopez

Debra “Debbie” Lopez, a vibrant spirit whose laughter echoed through the lives she touched, departed this world on November 8, 2025, after a courageous battle with an illness. She was at home in Santa Fe, surrounded by the love of her devoted husband, Edward Lopez, who stood by her side until the very end. Born on November 15, 1960, Debbie’s life was a tapestry woven with the rich threads of adventure, joy, and unyielding love.

A proud graduate of Santa Fe High School, Debbie furthered her education with an Associates Degree from Santa Fe Community College before embarking on a fulfilling career as an Administrator for the State of New Mexico’s Health Department. Her professional journey began at Eberline Instrument Corporation, a place where she not only honed her skills but also met the love of her life, Edward. Together, they crafted a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by all who knew them.

Debbie had a contagious personality, a heart brimming with kindness that welcomed everyone and everything into her orbit. She had an uncanny ability to light up a room with her radiant smile, a muse for creativity and warmth. Her jovial spirit was perfectly complemented by her zest for life; she was always willing to try new things and brought an openness to every adventure. From scaling the highest peaks in New Mexico to canoeing on tranquil lakes, the great outdoors called to her soul, where she found her bliss among the natural wonders of her beloved state.

Her passions extended to the kitchen, where she showcased her talent as a great cook and an amazing baker. Family gatherings were sweetened by her delightful treats, ensuring that her loved ones were always surrounded by culinary delights. Whether it was baking the perfect pie or curating an impressive spread, Debbie infused every meal with love and care. She also found joy in gardening, where her green thumb flourished, creating beautiful spaces for family and friends to gather and share in the warmth of her nurturing spirit.

Debbie was a nurturing force in the lives of her family. She took immense pride in hanging out with her nieces and nephews, providing them with laughter and guidance, while also embracing her adventurous spirit by learning how to ski on her own. Children and animals gravitated towards her; especially cats, who sought her gentle touch and kind disposition.

Her absence leaves a vast void in the hearts of those who knew her. She is survived by her loving husband, Edward Lopez; her brother, Vince Padilla; her nieces, Hannah and Sierra, and their mother, Kathy; her in-laws, Yvonne and Randy Garcia  and Carla Lopez and Michael Vigil; along with her nephew Mark Garcia  and nieces Lauren Garcia, Rachel Lopez (Jeff), Miquela Vigil (Alauddin) and Cristina Vigil (Emily), grand niece and nephew Zayden and Ariana as well as special friends, Mark Padilla and Ross Chaney.  Debbie joins her beloved parents, Grace and Vicente Padilla, and her sister, Carla Padilla (Lujan), in eternal peace.

Debbie Lopez will be profoundly missed, a luminous soul whose laughter and love will resonate in the hearts of those she has left behind. May her spirit forever dance in the winds of the New Mexico mountains she cherished so deeply, an everlasting reminder of the joy she brought into our lives.