Alison Reed Obituary

Alison Mary Reed, born on May 24, 1947, in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, passed away on January 12, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Alison moved to Albuquerque from Durango, Colorado with her two dog buddies - Rocky and Jasper - following the death of her husband, Paul Reed, in 2021. Alison was passionate about her family, nurturing strong bonds with her brothers Joel, Jonathan, Peter, and Nathan Richards, as well as her cousins Wendy Gilmore and Robin Gauthier. She is survived by numerous nieces and nephews and, of course, Rocky and Jasper.

Alison loved the outdoors, especially the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. She was an avid hunter, fisherperson, edible mushroom hunter, and horse woman who owned, trained and competed in equestrian events in her younger days. Later she and Paul used their horses for pack trips and hunting.

Alison lived for many years in North La Plata County, where she owned Needle's Liquor Store near Purgatory Resort. She was the proud owner of a wood burning cook stove and a master at using that stove to cook amazing meals for her friends and family. She often used meat she hunted or the chickens she raised in her backyard for her culinary creations.

After her move to Albuquerque Alison was your go-to foodie: she had a large cookbook collection and loved exploring Albuquerque's many restaurants with her cousins and brother.

Whether she was sharing a meal, embarking on a new culinary adventure, or simply enjoying the company of her family and friends, Alison's humor and positive attitude brightened those around her. Alison was a strong and resilient woman who passed away just like she lived her life: on her own terms. She will be missed and remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Alison was preceded in death by: her husband, Paul Reed; her father Paul Richards; and her mother, Francis Richards. She is survived by brothers Nathan, Peter, Jonathan, and Joel as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.