Lorena Beeman

With great sorrow I report that Lorena Beeman, my wife of 31 years, passed away on Thursday, November 26, 2024. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Education at the UNM College of Nursing, Lorena excelled as a nurse, caring for patients with cardiac and critical illness. She spent time studying with the renowned heart surgeon, Dr. Michael DeBakey, and used that experience in her work with the development of a heart transplantation program at Presbyterian Hospital. Later, she went to work at UNM Hospital where she held several positions, especially taking pride in the development and management of the learning simulation lab that allows health care providers to develop hands-on skills in life-saving techniques. Later, she served as Director of Clinical Education.

Lorena was also a leader outside her hospital work, being active in the local chapter of the American Association of Critical Care Nurses and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

Lorena loved to teach and shared her knowledge with professionals at all levels. Despite having chronic heart and lung problems since her early twenties, Lorena worked selflessly until eventually illness led to an early retirement. She spent her remaining time with me, with close friends, and of course with her beloved dogs. She leaves a legacy as teacher, mentor, and clinician. Lorena is survived by husband, Jerry Beeman and brothers, Scott and Glenn Piggott. No memorial is scheduled at this time. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to the Lorena Beeman Family Fund at gofund.me/ab9f532d.