Aurora Mendoza Lira M.D.

 On January 12, 2024, Dr. Aurora Lira peacefully passed away while surrounded with love by her daughter, Patricia, and son, Paul David. She is preceded in death by her parents and three sisters and brother: Gloria, Corazon, Leticia, Lourdes, and Roque. She is also preceded in death by her loving husband, Antonio Lira. 
     Aurora is survived by her youngest sister Gloria Bacani (Noel), and her two children, Patricia Relojo (Magno) and Paul David Lira (Maruja). She was also a proud grandmother to her “peanut butters” Lauren Mira (Mark), Sara Relojo-Smith (Andy), Anthony Lira (Kelly), Jacob Lira, and Jonas Lira. Lastly, Aurora was a caring great-grandmother to Eliana, Jazlene, Vincent, Rosalie, and Arthur Mira, Luna and Aurora Smith, and Noelle Lira. 
     Aurora, or as her loved ones knew her, Auring, was born on January 23, 1927. Auring, and her identical twin sister, Gloria, were the oldest of 7 children. She grew up in San Miguel, Philippines and became a doctor. After graduating from medical school from the University of the Philippines, she immigrated to the United States to complete her education and practice medicine. It was in Canton, OH, where she met her husband Antonio Lira. The pair soon after married, started their family, and practiced medicine together. They were among the first Filipino physicians to be invited by Booth Hospital to practice in Kentucky. They proudly served their devoted patients at Booth, as well as other locations in the tristate area including St. Elizabeth Hospital, the VA, and their private practice in Covington, KY. 
     Auring was also active in the Filipino community. She creatively served as a fashion designer and sewed hundreds of costumes over the years for traditional Filipino folk dancers and models at International Folk Festivals and events. Auring loved connecting with fellow Filipino-Americans, sharing her talents, and building lifelong friendships. 
     After Antonio tragically passed in 1975, Auring became a dedicated single mother, and she continued the practice to keep Tony’s spirit alive. She worked diligently and retired at the young age of 85, adding 37 extra years of service to the community after Tony’s passing. When she retired, Auring spent time doing what she loved the most - traveling, ballroom dancing, and spending time with her family. 
     Auring’s loved ones will always remember her giant heart, her bold tenacity, her dedication to success and education, and her faithfulness to her family. Her family is blessed to have loved Auring for 97 years, and are at peace knowing she is reunited with her twin sister and husband in heaven.

     Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at Middendorf Funeral Home (3312 Madison Pike, Ft. Wright, KY 41017) from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.  Mass of Christian Burial will take place the following day, Monday, January 22 at Mother of God Church starting at 12:00 noon.  Burial will immediately follow at St. Mary Cemetery.  Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Elizabeth Hospice (483 South Loop Rd. Edgewood, KY 41017).