In Loving Memory of Ernest Franklin Gaylord

July 21, 1932 – June 7, 2026

Ernest Franklin Gaylord, beloved husband, attorney, mentor, traveler, scholar, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, in Denver, Colorado, at the remarkable age of 93. His life was one of extraordinary intellect, unwavering kindness, and quiet generosity—a life that enriched countless others through his wisdom, compassion, and enduring curiosity.

Ernest was born on July 21, 1932, in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, to Dale B. Gaylord and Mary Edith Palmer. A proud member of the Osage Nation through his mother’s family, he always carried a deep appreciation for his heritage. Raised in Oklahoma, Ernest served as an altar boy in the Catholic Church during his youth, where he first developed the sense of service and reverence that would remain evident throughout his life. Ernest was preceded in death by his parents and his half-brother, David.

After earning his law degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law, Ernest made Denver his home and embarked on a distinguished legal career. As an estate planning and probate attorney serving the City and County of Denver, he became known not only for his remarkable legal knowledge but also for his integrity, wisdom, and genuine concern for the people he served. His passion for the law never diminished; remarkably, he continued practicing into his nineties, inspiring colleagues and clients alike with his sharp mind and steadfast dedication.

On New Year’s Eve in 1986, Ernest married the love of his life, Carol Suzanne Gaylord. Together they shared thirty-nine wonderful years of marriage built upon friendship, laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion. Whether attending the theater, traveling abroad, or simply enjoying one another’s company, theirs was a partnership filled with joy and mutual admiration.

Although Ernest had no biological children, he defined family not by blood, but by love. He wholeheartedly embraced Kirsten and Lee Hildebrand as his own children and cherished Kristopher Hildebrand and his wife, Fredericka, Gabrielle Hildebrand, and Kevin Hildebrand as his grandchildren. He also lovingly welcomed Carol’s daughter, Lisa Alles, and her husband, Greg, as his children. He delighted in their children—Cora Brice and her husband, Calvin, Catherine Ludin and her husband, Caleb Alles, and Claire Alles—as his grandchildren. In one final testament to the depth of his affection, photographs of his grandchildren surrounded his bedside when he passed away—a quiet reflection of where his heart always remained.

Ernest possessed a lifelong love of learning and culture that shaped every aspect of his life. An avid reader, he was fluent in German, French, and Russian (which he learned in his seventies). His appreciation for beauty drew him to the theater, opera, and the world’s great works of art. He faithfully held season tickets to the opera, where Ernest delighted in singing along to the performances he knew by heart.

Travel broadened his already expansive view of the world. Europe called him back time and again, with Norway holding a particularly special place in his heart. There he visited his dear friend of more than thirty years, Dr. Herbert Fischer. Among his many adventures was a voyage aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2, where he had the unique opportunity to meet actor Rock Hudson.

Despite his many accomplishments, Ernest remained humble and deeply committed to serving others. He generously volunteered throughout the Denver community, especially with Project Angel Heart, alongside close friends. He was equally devoted to the companionship of animals, opening his heart and home to many beloved pets over the years. Christopher, his cherished dog, and Amadeus, his favorite cat, held especially treasured places in his heart. He never forgot to feed the squirrels who faithfully visited him on his lanai.

Ernest was a beloved neighbor and friend within his Denver community. People were naturally drawn to his warmth, wit, thoughtful conversation, and remarkable breadth of knowledge. He possessed the rare gift of making everyone feel welcome, valued, and heard. His neighbors were dear to his heart, and he was grateful for their support and assistance in his elder years.

Among Ernest’s happiest memories were the holidays he spent in Milwaukee with Lee, Lisa and their families. Those gatherings brought him immense joy and became treasured traditions that reflected what mattered most to him: sharing life with those he loved.

Those who knew Ernest will remember far more than his accomplishments. They will remember a gentleman whose brilliance was matched only by his kindness, whose love of knowledge never overshadowed his humility, and whose greatest legacy is found in the lives he touched with generosity, patience, humor, and love. The lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the love he so freely gave will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends. May he live in peace with God eternally.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, August 21 at 12:30 PM at St. James Catholic Church, 1311 Oneida Street, Denver. Interment will follow at Fairmount Cemetery, 430 S. Quebec Street, Denver.