In Memoriam
Judge Carol Connor
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Hon. Carol A. Connor (Lacan) died in Albuquerque on May 10. Judge Connor, a strong, wise and powerful Assinibione Sioux woman, was born in Wolf Point, Mont., on Dec. 31, 1941, to Lora M. Worthington and Fred Whitebear Connor. Judge Connor was preceded in death by son Robert Mark Gilbert. She is survived by daughters Cindy Montgomery and Lori Matier Vittatoe; grandchildren Natalie Montgomery, Rachael Matier, Joseph Montgomery, and William Connor Montgomery; and great grandchildren Dominique Ortiz, Jordan Connor, Ethan Whitebear, Brendan Barela, and Noah Joseph.
Judge Connor graduated with the class of 1978 from the University of New Mexico Law School. She was a member of the Indian Law Center. Her prolific law career spanned four decades, including practicing law for several tribes across the U.S., including her own Assiniboine Sioux tribe in Montana. Judge Connor presided as a federal administrative law Judge for 20 years.
Judge Connor was a founding member of the New Mexico Women’s Bar Association and a tireless advocate for women, Native Americans and land and water rights. Judge Connor was married to her “Cherie” Jacques Lacan for 20 years, whom she met in Normandy while honoring a story of fallen Native Americans in WWII, which included her own father. They were married in a fairy tale French castle and in the church. They resided in Albuquerque with their beloved puppies, Bisoux Boy I, Bisoux Boy II and Kissy Face. Judge Connor’s impact on the world will be missed as she truly touched all those she encountered. She always believed her greatest gift to the world was her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who she loved and adored.
We are accepting contributions towards flowers, a tree and a plaque in her name.
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