Rockford, Illinois – Here we gather to honor and celebrate the remarkable life of Lauren Ashley Ladley, a cherished soul who graced this world from March 6, 1984, to September 18, 2023. Lauren was a beacon of light, captivating her family and friends from the moment she arrived as the firstborn granddaughter and niece, instilling an understanding that she was destined to play a significant role in their lives.
Lauren’s childhood was adorned with love, surrounded by her lively cousins, affectionate aunties, playful uncles, and doting grandparents. She wove sweet memories with ghost stories, decorated lockers, burnt popcorn bags, and visits to the joke shop, making every moment in her early years special and memorable.
As she grew, Lauren’s vibrant and inquisitive nature led her on a path of learning and sharing knowledge. She returned to her alma mater, St. Francis High School, to impart the gift of language and culture as a Spanish teacher and to leave an indelible mark on the theatre department. Lauren’s academic journey was marked by impressive achievements, including honorary degrees in Education and Spanish from North Central College, and two master’s degrees in education. She found her true calling at Holy Family, where she passionately taught Spanish and directed the children’s choir.
Lauren’s approach to teaching extended beyond the textbook; she infused excitement and culture into her lessons, inspired by her numerous adventures and travels abroad, particularly in Spain. Stepping into Lauren’s classroom was akin to being transported into a world brimming with color, joy, and cultural richness.
The Ladley household was always alive with Lauren’s infectious laughter and her knack for making ordinary moments magical. Her vibrant spirit shone through in everything she did, from adorning the porch with giant spiderwebs to creating the perfect stocking for her beloved cat, Tinkerbell. Lauren’s enduring memory is a tapestry of her radiant smile, bright eyes, meticulous fashion sense, and keen eye for accessorizing.
To Lauren’s family, she was a source of love, laughter, and warmth. Her parents, Walter and Susan Ladley, grandmother Patricia Mencotti, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends, all share in the profound loss of a beloved daughter, granddaughter, niece, and friend. Lauren’s passing has brought her into the comforting embrace of her grandparents and aunt.
In the spirit of honoring Lauren’s vibrant legacy, a Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. at Holy Family Catholic Church, with Reverend Phillip Kaim officiating. Prior visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, and on Wednesday from 9:00 A.M. until 9:45 A.M. at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates support through Lauren Ladley’s GoFundMe page or donations in Lauren’s name to Holy Family Catholic School. It is stated on GoFundMe page:
“When people we love are stolen from us, the best way for them to live on forever, is to never stop loving them and the legacy that they left on us.
Our world has been rocked as we all lost one of the great ones on the evening of September 18th.
Lauren Ladley lived to learn… and then share that wisdom with the world – as a teacher, singer, and a role model to so many young students that she had the privilege to educate over her career as an educator and leader for our future generations.
Please consider donating to our fund in memory of Lauren so that we can all try to help alleviate any financial burden that the family is going to encounter over the coming weeks.
On behalf of the family – we are so proud of what Lauren gave to our world in her time with us, and we are so grateful for the support and strength in one of our most trying times.
Lauren’s legacy is one full of service, laughter, and the kind of faith we all hope to achieve.
Thank you for the outpouring of support.
Wake – Tuesday September 26th from 4 – 7 pm.Location: Fitzgerald Funeral Home: 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108
Mass and Funeral – Wednesday September 27th 10 am.Location: Holy Family Catholic Church4401 Hillcrest Rd, Rockford, IL 61107”
Lauren Ashley Ladley’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved her, and her legacy will forever brighten the world around us. We carry her vibrant spirit within us as we navigate the path ahead, cherishing the love and light she brought into our lives.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
