At the age of 60, Denise Marie Santille passed away at the Pagosa Springs Medical Center after a year-and-a-half-long battle with metastatic breast cancer. She was surrounded by the love, presence, and support of her family-those she cherished above all else. Born in Elmira, New York, on September 18, 1965, Denise was the daughter of the late Robert M. Woods and Philomena J. (Cantando) Woods.

From an early age, she carried a bright, creative spirit. She went on to attend Buffalo State College, where she honed her passion for art and design. She was an RA in her dorm, organizing and leading communal activities and bringing people together, earning the nickname "FUN" through her college years. She was described as "a cheerleader of all things good" by those who knew her in this phase of life-something that remained true until the very end. Denise's professional journey then spanned over several decades, where she excelled in executive housekeeping positions at a variety of prestigious hotels and high-end properties, as well as a period of time managing her own business, Santille Cleaning Services. With her attention to detail, commitment to excellence, and natural leadership, she was admired by both her colleagues and guests alike. Her work in the hospitality industry not only elevated the standards of service wherever she went, but it also gave her the opportunity to nurture her love of creating beautiful and welcoming spaces-traits that became a hallmark of her career. Denise's work ethic was second to none, and she took great pride in her role, always striving to provide the highest level of service.

Denise is survived by her beloved husband of 34 years, Steven C. Santille, with whom she shared a life built on partnership, laughter, and unconditional love. She leaves behind her three children: Daughter Shelby Suzanne (Santille) Quezada Sosa, daughter Kaley Rose Santille, and son Nicolas Michael Santille; Grandson Luca Lorenzo Quezada Sosa, born to Shelby and her husband, Lorenzo Quezada Sosa. Denise is also survived by her six siblings, and many nieces and nephews, each of whom she adored deeply. Her siblings: Charles M. Woods, Patricia A. (Woods) Dryburgh, Victoria J. (Woods) Deinema, Robert J. Woods, Timothy W. Woods, and Nicole L. (Woods) Mulligan.

For Denise, family was everything. And her family spanned much larger than those listed above. She also had many friends that she considered family. In her eyes, there was no such thing as a stranger, but rather friends she hadn't met yet. She devoted her life to nurturing, protecting, and uplifting each person she loved. Her warmth was limitless, her compassion steady and instinctive. She was the one who showed up, who listened without judgment, who effortlessly put the needs of others before her own. Denise had a heart shaped by kindness, generosity, and unwavering positivity. Even in the most difficult moments, she found light-often through her infectious sense of humor, which brought joy and comfort to everyone around her. Creativity lived at the center of who she was. She had an artist's soul, expressing herself through art, design, and imaginative pursuits that brightened the lives of those she shared them with. Denise also had a love for adventure and beauty, most memorably expressed in her fascination with hot air ballooning. The freedom and wonder of soaring in the sky reflected her own uplifting spirit-one that inspired others to see the world with curiosity and gratitude. Denise's legacy is one of love - deep, selfless, and enduring. She built a family rooted in closeness, laughter, and unwavering support. Her presence will continue to be felt in the traditions she created the joy she spread, and the countless lives she touched with her generosity and gentle strength.

Her family takes comfort in knowing that her light will continue to shine through the memories shared, the lessons taught, and the love she gave so freely.

She will be missed beyond measure and remembered forever.