Mary Helen Duran

Mary Helen Duran, born Mary Helen Romero, passed away on October 20, 2026, in Lakewood, Colorado. She was born on August 20, 1942, in Trinidad, Colorado, and lived a life defined by devotion to family, strong convictions, and a warm presence in her community.

Mary worked in education and also gave her time as a volunteer with the public library, reflecting her steady commitment to helping others and staying connected to those around her. She was well known in her community and was friendly with her neighbors, building lasting connections through simple kindness and everyday warmth.

She loved spending time with her family and created many of the memories they will carry forward. Christmas was especially dear to her, and she delighted in decorating her home for the holiday, cooking for her family, and opening her home to those she loved. She had a gift for turning ordinary moments into something special. She would make an occasion out of taking her grandkids to the dollar movies, always bringing along favorite snacks and making the outing feel like a celebration.

Mary was active and, in her younger years, enjoyed skiing and walking. She also found joy in travel, especially vacations with her husband, Lee, with whom she traveled extensively. She enjoyed trips to Las Vegas and playing the slots, and those who knew her will remember her spirited nature. She was headstrong and knew exactly what she wanted, a quality that was unmistakably her own and deeply admired by those who loved her.

One of Mary’s proudest accomplishments was her forty-one-year marriage to her husband, Eliseo “Lee” Duran, whose memory remained an enduring part of her life. She was preceded in death by Lee; by her mother, Tillie Edwards; by her sisters, Carmen Lopez and Sylvia Maestas; and by her brother, Roy Romero.  She was also preceded by a dear friend, Ron Reyes.

She is survived by her son, Alfredo Duran; several grandchildren and great grandchildren as well as her brother, Alfred Romero; and her sister-in-law, Erica. They, along with extended family, friends, and neighbors, will remember Mary for her love of family, her holiday spirit, her strength of will, and the many happy times she created for others.