Mariposa Padilla Sivage, a distinguished New Mexico lawyer, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026, after a hard-fought battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family. Mariposa lived her life with love and faith for the Lord, and it showed brightly through her in all aspects of her life. Throughout life she carried herself with unparalleled strength, profound compassion, and unwavering dedication to Christ, her family and friends. Her departure leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who were touched by her remarkable spirit.

Born on May 2, 1976, to Cleo and Madeline Padilla, Mariposa is survived by her loving husband Kelly Sivage, her two children Mariella (19) and James (15), her sisters Vanessa Szantos and Alegra Bishop, her soul dogs Rosco and Lulu, and a wide circle of family, friends, and colleagues who will miss her dearly.

Her love and passion for Christ was admirable. Everything she did was for the glory of the Lord. This same love is seen in her family as she instilled the same faith and trust, and they know they will see her again.

Mariposa was the heart of her family. As a supportive mother and devoted wife, she gave endlessly of herself, always offering her encouragement, wisdom, and unconditional love.

Kelly and Mariposa’s marriage was strong in the Lord and in each other and was filled with love, laughter, and music. Her happiest moments were spent on the lake, surrounded by family, laughter, and nature. It is where Kelly proposed and where the two of them have always felt closest.

As a mother, she provided daily unconditional love and guidance. Mariposa made it her mission to attend every milestone, award, or event. She encouraged her children to be their best and to put everything into what they wanted to accomplish. She was a great listener and would always have the right thing to say. Mariposa regarded her family as her greatest achievement and there was no sacrifice too big for her babies.

Mariposa’s life was full of accomplishments, including the practice of law for 23 years. She began her legal career with the law firm of Keleher & Mcleod PA; and was there for seven years. In 2010 she joined Sutin Thayer and Browne where she served as Co-Vice-president of the Board of the Directors and took time to train several attorneys. She dedicated herself to the practice of law with fierce determination, integrity, and intelligence. She was sharp-minded, hardworking, and deeply committed to her clients. Mariposa approached every challenge with courage and purpose, earning the admiration and trust of all who had the privilege of working alongside her.

Mariposa represented clients in a broad range of civil and commercial litigation matters throughout New Mexico. She possessed extensive experience representing government entities and public employees. She represented management in labor relations and collective bargaining negotiations for a higher education client. She handled complex litigation involving prison liability, probate and estate disputes, construction claims, premises liability, civil rights, and governmental defense.

Before entering the legal profession, Mariposa worked in marketing and public relations, experiences that reflected her natural ability to connect with others and advocate effectively on behalf of those she served.

Throughout her distinguished career, Mariposa earned numerous honors and recognitions for her excellence, leadership, and commitment to the legal profession. She was recognized by Best Lawyers in America®, held the prestigious Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating, and was named among Benchmark Litigation’s 40 & Under Hot List and Southwest Super Lawyers. In 2019, she was honored as one of Albuquerque Business First’s New Mexico Women of Influence. Her many academic achievements included graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of New Mexico School of Law, membership in the Order of the Coif, and received the Irwin Stern Moise Award for legal and judicial ethics.

Mariposa was also deeply committed to her community and professional service. She contributed her time and leadership to numerous organizations, including the New Mexico Community Foundation, Women United, Leadership New Mexico, and Leadership Albuquerque. Her dedication to public service and mentorship left a lasting impact on countless individuals and institutions throughout the state.

A funeral service to celebrate Mariposa’s life will be held on June 20th at 1:00 pm at Church at the Butte; 516 NM-195. Elephant Butte, NM. 87935. with reception to follow. In place of flowers and gifts, the family requests that donations be made to American Cancer Society.