Leona Ann Griego

Leona Ann Griego, with her radiant spirit and boundless warmth, departed this world on June 26, 2026, in Albuquerque, NM, embraced by the deep love and prayers of her family. Born on September 25, 1972, in Las Vegas, NM, Leona’s life was a testament to courage, compassion, and genuine connection—a tapestry woven from devoted relationships and unforgettable moments.

To those who were blessed to know her, Leona’s presence was both a gentle comfort and a bright beacon. Her laughter could light a room, and her extraordinary strength was felt by all who leaned on her for support. She found the truest form of companionship with her loving wife, Lisa -Dofflemyer-Griego, with whom she built a sanctuary of heartfelt affection and enduring partnership. Their journey together was marked by kindness, mutual respect, and a love that never waned.

Leona also leaves behind her cherished fur babies, Lucky and Onyx, who brought her daily reminders of devotion and joy. Her mother, Bernadette Padilla, and stepfather, Jimmy Padilla, hold her memory close, remembering her as a daughter whose heart radiated generosity and understanding.  The memory of Leona is equally precious to her late father, Leo Griego.

Leona worked for the State of New Mexico at the Behavioral Heath Hospital in Las Vegas, NM for 26 years. She retired after hard work and dedication on August 1, 2019. Then she returned back to work in March 21, 2021 and retired from A-1 Self Storage November 17, 2025. Leona was an avid Las Vegas Raider fan. She also loved the outdoors, horror movies, owls, fishing and arts and craft. Leona had a love for music, her go to was 80's Freestyle and some country. 

Her deeply rooted sense of family extended to her siblings and their families—her sister, Doreen Hammer, and brother-in-law, Thomas Hammer; her sister-in-law, Tanya Vigil, and brother-in-law, Rob Vigil; her sister-in-law, Debbie McDonald, and brother-in-law, Darren McDonald. Leona's circle also included her stepbrothers, James and Jerry Padilla, who stood with her through life’s varied seasons. The loving embrace of extended family offered her sustenance and joy, and she, in turn, graced their lives with laughter and wisdom. Leona also leaves behind her many aunts, uncles and cousins that loved her dearly.  She also leaves behind her 19 nieces and nephews that she adored and loved so dearly. Leona also leaves behind her living Guardian Angels and you know who you are.

The echo of Leona’s love will forever resound in the heart of her dearest friends, Cleo Archuleta, and Cassandra (Sandra) Gonzales—her “best bestie friend in the world”—a friendship that spanned years and weathered every trial, blossoming into a bond akin to family.

Leona’s journey formed bridges backward and forward in time. She now rejoins beloved family who have journeyed ahead: her dear fur baby Raider; her grandparents Evaristo & Amalia Gonzales, Alejandro & Dora Griego, and Adolfo & Anna Marie Padilla; mother in law Georgianna Dofflemyer, and her sister-in-law, Antionette Solano. Their reunions in memory are painted in tender hues, enriched by longing and fond recollections.

Though broken hearts grieve her absence, Leona leaves behind an enduring luminescence.  She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. The lessons she imparted, the kindness she embodied, and her unwavering loyalty dwell in all who knew her. Her legacy is love—in actions, laughter, and quiet acts of everyday grace.

As those who cherished her gather in the coming days, they will remember a life lived fully, loved deeply, and shared generously. Leona Ann Griego’s spirit lives on: in stories retold, in the embrace of loved ones, in the music she loved to hear, and in the indelible mark she has left on this world.

"Ohana means FAMILY and family means no one gets left behind or forgotten"

The family would like to thank Compassus Hospice, the staff of UNM Hospital, the staff at Christus St. Vincent's Hospital, the staff at Albuquerque Heights and also the staff at Fresenius.