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 was 50 years old and lived her life with love and faith for the Lord. This love and faith showed brightly through her in all aspects of her life. She carried herself with unparalleled strength, profound compassion, and unwavering dedication to Christ, her family and friends. Her departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who were touched by her remarkable spirit.

Mariposa is survived by her loving husband Kelly Sivage, her two children Mariella and James, 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. 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. Her generosity touched countless lives and her warm spirit made everyone feel welcomed and cared for.

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. She approached every challenge with courage and purpose, earning the admiration and trust of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Mariposa represented clients in a broad range of civil and commercial litigation matters throughout New Mexico. She possessed extensive experience representing governmental entities and public employees. She practiced extensively in both New Mexico federal and state courts, as well as before administrative tribunals, and she brought extensive first-chair jury and non-jury trial experience to her work. 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 recognition 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 receiving 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 Federal Bar Association, the American Bar Association, 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.

Mariposa’s light will forever shine in the hearts of those who knew her.