Obituary of Laurie DiPadova-Stocks

Laurie DiPadova-Stocks, age 78, of Gilbert, AZ, passed away on December 14, 2023. Laurie was born on July 31, 1945, in Portsmouth, Virginia, to the late Everett Hale Newman, Jr. and Evelyn Naomi Moore Newman. She was the beloved wife of Hugh Stocks, and together they shared a life filled with love and cherished memories.

Laurie was an intelligent and loving individual who dedicated her life to academia. She pursued her higher education at Mary Washington College of the University of Virginia, where she laid the foundation for her future accomplishments. Laurie went on to earn a Master of Science in Sociology at the University of Utah. She later earned a Ph.D. in Public Administration and Policy from Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy, State University of New York at Albany. It should be noted that this degree was granted at the age of 52 while she was raising two children.

Her academic prowess led her to become a respected professor at several universities. She spent the final 20 years of her career as professor and dean at Park University, where she made a lasting impact on her students and colleagues. At the time of her retirement she was named Dean Emeritus at Park University.

Outside of her professional achievements, Laurie was a devoted mother and step-mother. She also had a deep sense of faith and was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Her devotion to her religious beliefs brought her solace and strength throughout her life.

Laurie's passing leaves a void in the lives of her loved ones. She is survived by her husband, Hugh Stocks, her former husband, Theodore DiPadova, her children: Audra DiPadova Wilford and Joe DiPadova along with their spouses, her grandchildren Max and Maesie Wilford, and her siblings, Angela Newman, Walt Newman, and Nonie Kellogg. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Everette Hale Newman, III (Haley), and sister, Cathy Newman.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Laurie's life will be held on January 5, 2024, in Gilbert, Arizona. The services will be facilitated by Falconer Funeral Home, located in Gilbert.

Laurie will be remembered for her intellect, love, and dedication to her family, faith, and career. In fact, it is widely recognized that service was at the core of her learning, her teaching and her life. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in peace.