Lorena Andrade Saldaña

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Lorena Andrade Saldaña, lovingly known as "Lori," who left us on June 2, 2025, at the age of 47. Born on October 15, 1977, in Torrance, California, Lori's journey through life was marked by her uplifting spirit and charming personality, touching the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Lori dedicated her career to public service, working diligently at Compton City Hall in California, and later making a profound impact in education at "The Odyssey" preparatory academy in Buckeye, Arizona, and Desert Edge High School in Goodyear, Arizona. Her commitment to teaching, helping, and serving her community was evident in every interaction, leaving an indelible mark on her students and colleagues alike.

Education was a significant part of Lori’s life; she proudly earned her degree from Grand Canyon University, which served as a foundation for her passionate approach to both learning and teaching. She cherished the ability to reconnect with her hometown of Southgate, California—her visits there brought her immense joy.

Beyond her professional life, Lori was a pillar of love and support for her family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Juan Antonio Saldaña, and their beloved children: Isaiah, Nicholas, and Emma. Lori found her greatest joy in spending time with her family, cooking for them, and sharing in the simple pleasures of life. Her favorite meals, including pozole, tacos, and Chilaquiles paired with Agua de Horchata, often brought everyone together at the table.

Lori was also deeply loved by her siblings and cherished by her parents, Maria and Jose Luis Andrade. Her brothers and sisters, Susie Andrade, Lupe Rios, Katy Gutierrez, and Junior Andrade, will forever hold her memory in their hearts, as will her many nieces and nephews—Jonathan, Naomie, Miranda, Maribel, Katy, Nathan, Keira, Noah, Jose, Xavier, Liam, Aaden, and Elijah—who were blessed to have an aunt like her.

Throughout her life, Lori embraced her passions, which included a love for music, dancing to oldies and Spanish/Latino tunes that stirred her soul, and infusing every gathering with joy. She had a particular fondness for the color blue, which seemed to reflect her vibrant spirit and her ability to brighten any room she entered.

As we remember Lori, let us celebrate her life—a life filled with laughter, love, and the unwavering positivity that she offered to everyone around her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and all those she touched throughout her journey. May her memory be a blessing, eternally cherished by all who knew and loved her.