Regina Paulette Fields (1969–2026)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Regina Paulette Fields, known affectionately as “Reg,” who departed this world on February 23rd, 2026 at the age of 56. After a long and courageous battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, she passed away surrounded by the love of the family she spent her life protecting and nurturing.

Born on May 16, 1969, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Regina remained a proud New Mexican throughout her life starting school at the Queen of Heaven Parish and attending St Pius for high school. She graduated from the University of New Mexico, where she was an active and dedicated member of the Tri Delta Sorority, earning her degree in Economics.

Regina lived a life defined by strength and adventure. In her youth, she famously raced across the Panama Canal in a five-person canoe team, traversing the waters from the Atlantic to the Pacific. This same grit served her well during her 34-year marriage to her husband, Rich. As a US Air Force spouse for over two decades, Regina was the bedrock of her family through nine moves across the globe and countless deployments.

Upon returning to Albuquerque, Regina channeled her discipline into martial arts, becoming an instructor and earning a 2nd-degree Black Belt in TaeKwonDo. As a co-owner of a local self-defense business, she empowered her community, training Albuquerque court staff, law firms, and church groups in de-escalation and personal safety.

Beyond her professional and athletic achievements, Regina was a woman of deep faith and simple joys. She was a devoted Sunday School teacher and Marriage Preparation leader at St John the XXIIIrd Catholic Church. She found peace in baking, traveling, and the company of her beloved dogs.

Regina’s legacy lives on through her parents, Ralph and Ruth Padilla; her devoted husband, Richard; her two sons, Trevor and Ty; and her siblings, Victor and Roxann. She will be deeply missed by her Tri Delta sisters, whose unwavering support provided a lifeline to her and her devoted, loving husband throughout her illness.

Services: A rosary followed by a funeral Mass will be held on March 12th, 2026 at Queen of Heaven Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, whose support was invaluable during Regina and her family’s journey.

“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.”