Leona Lujan

(From Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary)

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Leona May Lujan (Swinford), who left us on December 2, 2025, at the age of 91. Leona was a vibrant, loving soul whose warmth, humor, and creativity made life brighter for everyone blessed to know her.

Leona was born to Marion and Dorothy Swinford on April 12, 1934.

A woman of strong faith in God, Leona lived her life with a deep sense of purpose, gratitude, and compassion. Her faith guided her, strengthened her, and shaped the way she loved others—with openness, generosity, and unwavering kindness.

A gifted writer, Leona had a lifelong passion for poetry. Her words were heartfelt and honest, and several of her poems were published—something she took pride in and something her family will forever cherish. Writing was her art, but her life was a celebration.

Leona was the life of the party. Her quick wit, playful humor, and outspoken spirit lit up every room she walked into. She loved cooking for the people she cared about, and her home was always filled with laughter, good food, and unforgettable moments. Her hugs were legendary—big warm, and full of love—making everyone feel welcomed and held.

A true nature lover, she found peace in the outdoors and joy in the simple beauty of God’s creation. Above all, family was the center of her world. Time spent together—talking, laughing, sharing stories, or simply being close—was what she treasured most.

She leaves behind a family who adored her and will carry her memory forward with deep love: three sons, Steve (Constance) Vaughn, Jeff (Frannie) Vaughn, and Todd (Tammy) Vaughn; eight grandchildren, Christa (David) Smith, Jessie (Jess Bull) Eley, Jennifer (Jake) Meyer, Lindsey (Cody) Grigsby, Amber (Nicholas) Spence, Jeffrey Vaughn, Danielle Vaughn, Austin Vaughn, Tyler Vaughn; eleven great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by Ernie Lujan (husband) and Mark Vaughn (son).

Services will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025 at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary at 1:00 p.m., where family and friends are invited to celebrate her life, faith, her words, and the joy she brought to so many. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until service time.

Leona will be remembered for her creativity, her bold spirit, her loving embrace, and the way she lived with faith at the center of everything. She will be deeply missed.