Cherif Porter-Lara

It is with great sadness—but also fond smiles as we recall her irreverent humor—that we announce the passing of Cherif Porter Lara on November 22, 2024, in Albuquerque, NM. Born on November 22, 1971, in Spokane, Washington, Cherif had an extraordinary gift for finding the humor in life’s absurdities and making those around her laugh, even in the toughest of times.

Cherif passed on the same day she entered this world, her 53rd birthday—a poignant symmetry that she would likely have commented on with her signature wit. Though multiple sclerosis accompanied her for three decades, it never overshadowed her ability to see the world through a lens of joy and laughter.

A lifelong animal lover, Cherif had a special connection with her beloved dogs, who were her most loyal friends and greatest comforts. She studied equestrian science in college, fulfilling her childhood dream of working with horses. Her love for animals was matched only by the care she extended to every living being in her life.

She is survived by her daughter Rand Porter Park, who carries forward her mother’s lighthearted view of the world; her mother Ona Porter and father Armando Lara, her stepmothers Miriam Rand and Socorro Lara; her sisters Jami Porter Lara, Emily Porter-Rand, Jessika Marquez, and Xiomara Fulp; her niece Zoe G. Fulp; nephews Christian and Alexander Boling; lifelong friends Kerri Reischl and Sarah Serement, and countless others who cherished her unique presence.

Cherif was fortunate to have a dedicated team of caregivers who provided her with exceptional care and compassion during her final years. Claudia Rodriguez, Arcelia "Chela" Davila, Giseña Rodriguez, Gloria Zertuche, Rosa Quiñonez, Neyra Cárdenas, Angélica De La Cruz, Angélica Dominguez, Elvira Onchondo, Alicia Mancias, Rita Castellanos, Lourdes Duarte, Adriana Velázquez, Linda Mcgarr, Monte De Montes, Steve Olivas, Tom Karpinsky, Ilsa Westmark, and the whole team at South Valley Care Center went above and beyond to ensure her comfort and well-being. Their unwavering dedication made a profound difference in Cherif's life, and her family is eternally grateful for their kindness and support.

Cherif lived her life with authenticity and a delightful irreverence. She had a way of seeing straight through pretense and cutting to the heart of what truly mattered—with a joke, a laugh, or simply her unwavering compassion.

Her warmth and humor brought people together, her love of animals brought her peace, and her spirit will remain a source of inspiration for all who knew her. Cherif reminded us that even in life’s challenges, there is always room for a laugh, a story, or the simple joy of being surrounded by those you love.

A Memorial Service will take place on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at 3:00pm at French Mortuary located at: 1111 University Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102. 

Though you may be taken from us too soon, your spirit lives in the memories we cherish and the love we shared. 

Though your smile is gone forever, and your hand I cannot touch, I still have many memories of the one I love so much.

Your memory is my keepsake which I will never forget.