Lula Jean Pettigrew

Lula Jean Pettigrew 

Lula Jean Pettigrew, age 83, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Friday, May 29, 2026, at UNM Hospital in Albuquerque, NM.

She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Ronald Joe, Jimmy Joe Jr. (Thelma), and Joel Pettigrew; her daughter, Mavis Hawley (Josh); ten grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and her sisters, Louella Pettigrew and Katherine Mike.

She was preceded in death by her son, Arnold Pettigrew; her parents, Jensen and Bertha Pettigrew; and her siblings, Jennie Begay, Larry Pettigrew, and Homer Pettigrew.

Lula was born on June 26, 1942, in Shiprock, New Mexico. During her childhood, she attended boarding schools in Oklahoma, Utah, and California. She was a devoted mother who raised five children and instilled in them the values of hard work, perseverance, and faith. Known for her strong work ethic and caring spirit, Lula dedicated her life to serving others.

A faithful woman of God, Lula was a longtime member of Open Bible Baptist Church, where she worshiped faithfully since the 1970s. She sang in the church choir, served wherever she was needed, and formed many lasting friendships through her church family. Her unwavering faith was a guiding light throughout her life.

In her later years, Lula found great joy in serving as a volunteer with the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program, where she mentored and tutored elementary school children. She treasured the opportunity to encourage young minds and make a positive difference in their lives.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her Blue Cross Blue Shield Care Coordinator, Circle of Life Home Care for providing compassionate in-home assistance, and the Critical Care Unit at UNM Hospital for their exceptional care and support during her final days.

Lula will be deeply missed by her family, friends, church family, and all whose lives she touched. Her legacy of faith, service, kindness, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Funeral services for Lula will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Open Bible Baptist Church, with Pastor Leland Jim officiating. Interment will follow at

Shiprock Community Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to join the family for a reception at Open Bible Baptist Church immediately following the burial.

Lula is in the care of Desert View Funeral Home in Shiprock, NM.