Laurie Monet Theard

Laurie Monet Theard of Aurora, Colorado, left this earth on January 10, 2025 at 1:21 a.m., at the age of 59.

Laurie was the youngest of four siblings born to Sidney Theard and Lilli Theard (Collins). She was born on May 6, 1965, at West Point Military Academy in the Keller Army Community Hospital in West Point, New York. Laurie was a kind child who loved animals. As the baby, she was spoiled with affection and was naturally used to getting her way (although her family happily complied). In high school, she enjoyed the ROTC and photography.

Laurie earned an Associate Degree in Radiology from Metropolitan State University and went on to work at UCHealth’s University of Colorado Hospital for her entire career. In her many years at the hospital, Laurie touched countless lives and received many awards. She was committed to her patients and colleagues, often helping people navigate other challenges in their lives, not just their healthcare. Her reach extended far beyond the walls of her department and the hospital; she made connections and had numerous positive impacts throughout the UCHealth system. 

Laurie was a lifelong Jehovah’s Witness, committed to her faith. She was baptized on June 27, 1987 and was an active member of the Sunridge Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Aurora, CO. As a pioneer, Laurie contributed extensively to her faith community through Bible study and field service. In her early 20s, she moved to New York and became a part of the Bethel family. She was also bilingual having taught herself Spanish, as an active member of a Spanish-speaking congregation. Additionally, she attended many international conventions over the years, including in Africa, South America, Asia, and Europe.

Laurie was dedicated to her family and friends, and was especially devoted to her mother. To have Laurie in your life meant you had someone in your corner, always. She would do anything for the people she loved, and she loved fiercely and fully. Laurie’s zest for life translated into a love of travel. She had the opportunity to visit many places and maintained an ever-growing wish list. Hawaii held a special place in her heart, as did the Winter Park Jazz Festival she attended annually with close friends. Laurie had a particular love for music and dancing; at most events you could be sure to find her “breaking it down” on the dance floor.

Laurie is survived by her loving mother, Lilli Theard of Aurora, CO; siblings: Lisa Theard Deffner (James) of Denver, CO; Leslie Theard of Fairfield, CA; nieces and nephews: Davon Theard, Regan Theard (Anna), Sidney Aaron Theard, Jr. (Paula), Megan Deffner Schneckenburger (Chad), Cassandra Sharpe (Will), Alison Deffner, Michael Theard, Demitra Theard (Jesse); and a host of grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins, and friends. 

Laurie’s time on this earth was cut too short, but she will live on in our memories. It was a blessing to have known her, to have loved her, and to be loved by her. She will dance on in our hearts forever.

Funeral Arrangements:

The viewing is scheduled for Wednesday, January 15, 2025 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Horan & McConaty: 11150 East Dartmouth Ave., Aurora, CO 80014.

The Memorial Service is scheduled for Thursday, January 16, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses: 350 Laredo St., Aurora, CO 80011.

The burial will take place at Fairmount Cemetery: 430 South Quebec St., Denver, CO 80247. Please arrive by 12:30 p.m. Use the Alameda Avenue entrance and head to the staging area.

The Memorial Service will be streamed via Zoom. The details are below.

Thursday, January 16, 2025 at 11 a.m. 

Website: https://jworg.zoom.us/j/95626581331

Meeting ID: 956 2658 1331

Password: 802699