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Surrounded by her children, Jenny Elmore took her final breath on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona, at the age of 87. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend, whose kindness and warmth left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Born Janneke Geluk on January 16, 1939, in Breskens, the Netherlands, Jenny was the daughter of Leendert Geluk and Elizabeth Vergouwe. As a young child, she experienced life in the Netherlands during the German occupation—memories that stayed with her throughout her life.
As a teenager, Jenny moved to Washington, D.C., where her father worked at the Dutch Embassy. She graduated from Roosevelt High School and later attended Strayer Secretarial College. During this time, she met her first husband, Johannes (Hans) Meijer, who also worked at the Dutch Embassy. They married in September 1960 and welcomed two children: Johannes (Jon) Meijer in 1962 and Elizabeth (Elsje) Meijer in 1963. The couple later divorced in 1970.
Jenny worked as a secretary, working at the World Bank, the Belgian Embassy, and the Physics Department at the University of Maryland. It was there that she met her second husband, Arnold (Arnie) John Elmore. They married on October 24, 1970, in Bethesda Naval Hospital, where Arnie was a patient at the time. Together they welcomed a daughter, Jaquelyn (Jackie) Elmore, in 1972, and raised their family in Columbia, Maryland.
While living in Columbia, Jenny found The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a faith she deeply cherished. She remained an active and devoted member throughout her life and was sealed to Arnie in the Washington, D.C. Temple in May 2007.
Jenny was an avid reader and had a special passion for collecting dolls and paper dolls. She was actively involved in her church, her community, and the paper doll world—spaces where her enthusiasm and generosity shone brightly.
Above all, Jenny had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen and special. She was deeply loved by all who crossed her path and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Our beloved Brenda Kae Stewart, age 78, passed away peacefully in her home on January 25, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by love and left this world with the same quiet strength and grace that defined her life.
Brenda was born on October 3, 1947, to Freeman McBride Stewart and Stella Hathcock Stewart in Mesa, Arizona. She was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend whose life was marked by humility, perseverance, and a gentle capacity to love.
She graduated from Westwood High School and later earned her degree from Arizona State University in Elementary Education. Her heart’s greatest desire was to be a mother and homemaker, and she was grateful for her career as a receptionist, which helped provide for her young family.
Brenda possessed a tender love for babies and children. She cherished her four precious children and loved them beyond words. She was also a devoted foster mother to more than twenty babies throughout her life. Brenda was humble, dedicated, and steadfast in her faith. She had a deep love and appreciation for the goodness in others, even when she struggled to see it in herself.
Brenda is survived by her children: Steven Jones (Vanessa), Carrie Mawby (Richard), Jason Jones, and Jefferson Jones; and many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Grammy B.” She is also survived by her sisters, Connie Huber and Sundee Stone, and her brothers, Dawson Stewart and Cameron Stewart.
Known for her charming home, the best cookies in the world, and her endless supply of ice cream, Brenda will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her. Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 12:00 noon, preceded by a visitation at 11:00 am, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building located at 422 East University Drive in Mesa, Arizona.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Sandra (Sandy) Diane Mittendorf, age 75, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026, at Hospice of the Valley’s Levine House in Phoenix, Arizona, after a courageous four-month battle with dementia.
Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Myrtle Palmer; her brothers, Will Simpson, Bill Simpson, and Bob Simpson; and her sister, Shirley Simpson.
She lived a full and active life, deeply enriched by family, friends, and service to others. Sandy was involved in many community activities, including her dedication to the Cub Scouts and her service as a member of the Catalina BSA Council. In more recent years, she devoted her time and heart to the Arizona Jack Russell Rescue, where her compassion and commitment helped more than 500 terriers find loving forever homes.
Sandy is survived by her beloved husband of 55 years, Gary; her son, Jason; and her daughter-in-law, Jeanette. She was a proud Arizona resident for 70 years and cherished the life she built with her family there.
At this time, no memorial or funeral service will be held. Arrangements for a service will be made at a later date. Bunker Garden Chapel, located at 33 N Centennial Way in Mesa, is overseeing final arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Hospice of the Valley in her honor.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Donald Richards Cronk, age 91, died peacefully on Friday, January 23, in Mesa, Arizona, surrounded by family and love.
Born on December 3, 1934, in Los Angeles, California, Don is survived by his wife of 67 years, Kaye, and his seven children and many grandchildren.
Don lived a uniquely full and meaningful life. A life that demonstrated the beauty of balance. Don was disciplined and precise, qualities that made him an exceptional pilot and adventurer, but he was also drawn to beauty in the world. Firm in what he believed yet endlessly curious about others. His life held adventure, creativity, leadership, and service, but at its core was a uniquely deep and constant love for his wife Kaye and his family.
Don loved deeply, has inspired many, and will be remembered always by all of us.
Flowers handled by Crismon’s Flowers
p. 480-964-4595
Flower Shop Mesa | Florist in Mesa, AZ | CRISMON’S FLOWERS
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Pamela A. Booth, known lovingly as Pam and Nanny, passed away on January 9, 2026. She was born on April 14, 1950, in Morgantown, West Virginia.
Pam was gentle, soft-spoken, and calm. She listened more than she spoke and offered a steady presence to those around her. She showed her love through shared meals, meaningful family traditions, and the quiet ways she paid attention to the people she cared about—often extending the same quiet kindness to strangers. Sunday Night Dinners and Christmas were at the heart of her family life, and birthdays were always marked by a special meal made just for you.
Books and reading were woven into Pam’s everyday life. She carried a deep wonder for astronomy and the night sky and found comfort in nature, among forest trees and time at the beach. She was especially fond of dogs and wildlife, eagles in particular, and enjoyed crafting and music.
Pam had a big but gentle sense of humor, shared closely with her family, a lifelong friend, and especially with her husband, that helped carry them through life’s joys and challenges. She will be remembered for her genuine kindness and the quiet way she loved. Her legacy lives on in the traditions she kept and the family she loved.
She is survived by her daughters Tracy (Mike) Frandsen, Michelle Booth, and Lindsey (Ezra) Sherman; her grandchildren Ilyas Sekandari, Aleah Sekandari, Zoie Sherman and one great grandchild, Rowan. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 53 years, Larry Booth, her beloved parents and her sister, Betty.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Pam’s love for rescue dogs was close to her heart, and donations to a local animal shelter would be a meaningful way to honor her memory.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Verona Cathryne Dunn, 89, passed away on the morning of Sunday, January 18th, in Gilbert, Arizona. She was born on September 13th, 1936 in Fortworth, Texas to Curtis and Irene Barnett. On July 20th 1955, she married Leonard Rolland Dunn and was eternally sealed to him and their children on September 5th, 1961 in the Mesa Arizona Temple. She and her young family were converted to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and she has been a continual faithful member of the church ever since, serving as the ward organist for more than 60 years. Cathryne was known for her musical talent and filled her life with piano teaching, church hymn practicing, recitals and concertgoing. She was also a skilled seamstress, working on many custom projects, including making her daughter’s beautiful wedding dress. Cathryne was a devoted wife, a wise and caring mother and supportive grandmother and great-grandmother. Her family was her top priority, and she was an unwavering disciple of Jesus Christ. She is survived by: her sister, Linda Hugghins; 3 sons, Brad (Cindy) Dunn, Stan (Marta) Dunn, and Lloyd (Carolyn) Dunn; 13 grandchildren; and 36 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by: her parents, Curtis and Irene Barnett; one sister, Elizabeth Barnett; her daughter, Trisha Baxter; and her husband, Leonard Dunn. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 31st at 1:00 p.m. in the Del Rio building of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: 1881 East Del Rio Drive, Tempe Arizona 85282. The viewing will be held Friday evening, January 30th at 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the same building. Also, there will be a viewing just before the funeral from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. The family expresses gratitude for all the love and support received and looks forward to reuniting with Cathryne again in a coming day through God’s plan of salvation. In her own words, “Thankfully, Somebody perfect is in charge.”
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Eloise Martin (“Weezi” and “G-Ball”), age 83, on January 15, 2026, at Banner Desert Hospital in Mesa, Arizona, following a brief illness. Eloise was a loving, family-oriented mother who valued independence and deeply believed in helping others.
Born in Laurel, Mississippi, Eloise’s greatest joy was her family. She lived for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild— they were her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Her legacy of love, generosity, and devotion to family will continue to guide those she leaves behind. Eloise is proceeded in death by her parents, one brother, one sister and two children.
Eloise is survived by her four children; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; three siblings; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Eloise’s acts of kindness were freely given, as she always offered herself and her help to anyone in need.
A service to honor Eloise’s life will be held on February 4, 2026, 3:00pm at the Bunker’s Garden Chapel in Mesa, Arizona.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Max E VanGorp passed away on Dec.28th, 2025 At Hospice of the Valley Lunt house in Gilbert, AZ. Born on Sept.24th, 1946 to De Vern and Darlene VanGorp in Oskaloosa, Iowa.
He spent his early years on various farms in the Oskaloosa area with his siblings, Delore and Wayne. Max graduated from Twin Cedars High in 1965.
In his early adult years, Max worked various jobs, notably at Harrison Department store before purchasing Zillman Furniture Store. He later operated VanGorp Furniture from 1974 to 1985. Many fond memories from the store were the lunches in the backroom, the “Eastside Mafia Coffee Club” and after hours at the VFW on the second floor. Max welcomed two sons: Dean and Curt, during his marriage to Millie.
Max had an ability to connect with others, making friends easily with just a short conversation. . Max was a talented salesman all of his life. People swear he could “sell water in the middle of a rainstorm”. He was also famous to friends and family for his playful “shenanigans or tricks he would quietly orchestrate.
Max’s second marriage to Patricia Moberly lasted for over 41 years, during which he became an Arizonan for 40 of those years. While in Arizona he worked for several furniture companies before establishing his own business. He opened Saguaro Furniture for 15 years before retiring in 2008.
In Arizona, Pat and Max created memories with family and grandchildren. Special trips were enjoyed with friends better known as the “cruise crew”; along with camping, fishing, gardening and exploring the beauty of Arizona. Pat and Max build a cherished place in the mountains of Arizona; “the cabin”; located in Happy Jack, Arizona.
Left to share his story is his loving wife, Pat VanGorp of Gilbert, Az. two sons Dean (Wydale) of Gilbert Az and Curtis of Austin, Texas; his two grandchildren Jordan VanGorp of Houston, Texas and Cooper VanGorp of Gilbert, Az.; his first wife Millie Stuckey of Houston, Texas and sister Delore Rankin of Mesa Az; plus many nieces, nephews and friends.
Max was preceded in death by his parents DeVern and Darlene VanGorp and his brother Wayne VanGorp.
Celebration of life will be held in both Iowa and Arizona. The Iowa celebration is April 11 at the VFW in Fairfield Iowa at 2pm. The Arizona celebration is May 16 at the family cabin in Happy Jack at noon.
In lieu of flowers; memorials can be directed to Hospice of the Valley and any National Park Foundation of your choice.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Lily Joan Pettyjohn Means, age 90, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona, surrounded by her family. Joan’s life was a beautiful example of faith, service, and love for family.
She married her eternal companion, Phil Means, on April 16, 1955, in Phoenix, Arizona, and they were later sealed in the Mesa Arizona Temple on April 20, 1961. Together they celebrated 70 years of marriage, raising five children and creating a home filled with warmth, music, and laughter.
Joan lived her life in devoted service to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in Relief Society presidencies, Young Women leadership, and worked with Boy Scouts, but her favorite calling of all was as a seminary teacher, where she shared her strong testimony and love of the gospel with youth. Her faith was unwavering, and she lived that testimony every day.
She was the epitome of a homemaker—cooking, caring for her home, and sending her sweetheart off to work. Joan raised generations of children and always had a pot of beans or a tray of enchiladas ready for anyone who might stop by. She loved music and often sang to her children and grandchildren around the house, filling their lives with melody and joy.
Joan is preceded in death by her eternal companion, Philip Means, and her son Philip Val Means. She is survived by her children: Linda Helen Miller (Scott Miller), Daryl Von Means (James Johnson), Terryl Van Means, and Geoffrey Vern Means (Lindsay Higbee); as well as 49 grandchildren, 64 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren.
Viewing Service
Friday, January 30, 2026, 7:00–8:00 p.m.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
745 N Val Vista Dr, Mesa, AZ 85205
Funeral Service
Saturday, January 31, 2026, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Same location as above.
Graveside Service
Following the funeral at
Resthaven/Carr-Tenney Mortuary & Memorial Gardens
4310 E Southern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Virginia Louise (Floyd) Sullivan, 80, was born in Newton, Massachusetts on March 23, 1945 to Malcolm and Barbara (Perry) Floyd. She was the oldest of four children. They all grew up in a beautiful home in Auburndale, and four generations have lived in that house over the years.
Ginny attended Colby Sawyer College, and after graduating, worked at Marriott where she met the love of her life, James “Jim” Sullivan. On their second date, Jim said he knew he was going to marry her; that is how enrapturing Ginny was! They married 55 years ago on July 18, 1970, and lived in West Groton, Massachusetts for the majority of their lives. She was a wonderful stay-at-home mom to three daughters. She was very involved in her children’s lives and shared her love for gardening, the outdoors, and animals. Her greatest joy in life, though, was her grandchildren; each one was truly blessed by having her pour into their lives as their Nana.
Her faith was of the utmost importance to her, and she was deeply involved in her church, Leominster Assembly of God. She taught Sunday school, led Bible studies, sang in the choir, and also mentored many people. Her hobbies included music, singing, and art; she was a creative soul.
In retirement, she and Jim moved to Mesa, Arizona to be near their youngest daughter and continued to pour into family.
Throughout her life, Ginny brought light, warmth, and joy into any room. She made people feel loved, welcomed, and cared for. She was always looking for small ways to bless others, and anyone who knew her experienced the sweetness she exuded.
Ginny is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Jim, and 3 daughters: Stacey (Joth) Riggs of Westlake Village, CA, Eileen Sullivan of Groton, MA, and Julie (Jeremy) Barrette of Mesa, AZ; 8 grandchildren: Kaleigh (Brandon) Chamberlain, Nicholas Smith, Liam Smith, Braelyn Riggs, Jerica Riggs, Lydia Barrette, Ella Barrette, Joel Barrette; and 2 great-grandchildren, Louella Chamberlain and Rhema Chamberlain. Ginny is also survived by her loving, sweet sister, Marjorie Arcand of Wellesley, Massachusetts.
Ginny is predeceased by her loving parents, Malcolm and Barbara, and her brothers, Charles “Chuckie” and John, as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and other family members. We believe she is in the arms of her Savior.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 14th at 2pm MST(4pm EST) at Bunker Family Funerals 3529 E University Dr, Mesa, Arizona 85213.
The service will be streamed live for all our beloved family and friends on the East Coast at the link below.
https://evt.live/virginia-sullivan-memorial
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Gary Waldie, age 93, passed away at his home Friday, January 16, 2026.
Gary was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Joanne, and his sisters Beverly Dawson and Scarlett Griffen.
Gary was a student at Phoenix Union High School and later attended Phoenix College. Along with a group of friends, Gary enlisted in the Air Force at the time of the Korean War. After all the training and testing, he became a fighter pilot. Just before he finished at Nellis AF Base, they signed the armistice that ended the war. Gary then became a member of the Air National Guard in Phoenix, where he flew the Lockheed F104 Starfighter. This jet held the speed record and was known as “The Missile with a Man In It.” He loved flying it.
Gary was set up on a blind date with Joanne during his last year at Nellis and they were engaged the following Christmas. They attended ASU together where he got his degree in Managerial Accounting. While attending ASU, he worked a full-time job at Air Research as well as flying the required number of hours for the Guard while carrying 18 credit hours.
Gary was an avid hunter. Whether it was hunting big game in Africa or Elk, birds and turkeys in Arizona, he loved it all. He even hunted the bottom of the ocean for lobster when he got certified as a scuba diver along with his sons, David and Doug.
Gary was always building or creating something. He became a home builder and built many homes and cabins. One of his hobbies was welding. He worked on many projects including gates, fences, tables, a staircase, a chandelier, railings for porches, boat trailers, quad trailers, & cabinets. He built porch swings for his grandchildren and made them sets of cooking knives. He even built Joanne two sets of golf clubs as well as building their first boat out of a fiberglass kit in their carport.
Gary loved to travel. His first job out of the Air Force was as an Insulation Estimator. He was an estimator for a year and a half after which he was made president of the company. He resigned after a few years and he and his partners opened their own insulation business. It was successful enough that for 25 years he earned paid trips from a supplier which allowed him to travel all over the world with his sweetheart, Joanne.
Gary is also survived by his children, David, Diane and Doug who will miss their Father greatly.
Graveside Services will be held at 10:00am on Friday, Jan 30, at Greenwood Memory Lawn located in Phoenix.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Diane Margaret Caldwell Brown left her earthly home and returned to her heavenly home on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. She remained true and faithful throughout her life, and it was the desire of her heart to hear the Savior’s words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
Diane was born on December 11, 1949, in Wichita, Kansas. She was the third child of Douglas and Joan Caldwell. Diane was blessed with two big dimples on either side of her mouth that appeared whenever she smiled. She had blonde, curly hair, blue eyes, and a fair complexion. Very early in her childhood, she demonstrated a lively spirit, a happy countenance, and a keen sense of imagination. Diane often remarked on how grateful she was for her family and how, during her childhood, she felt loved, safe, and carefree.
Diane graduated from high school and then attended Ricks College (BYU-Idaho) for her freshman year, where she made many friends and loved her classes. She later transferred to Brigham Young University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology in 1971.
After moving back to Mesa, Arizona, she was hired as a recreational therapist in a nursing home. She loved this job and used her many talents and gifts to bring joy and brighten the lives of the residents with whom she worked.
Diane married Barry Dean Brown on June 18, 1976. They later divorced. Together, they are the parents of John Phillip (deceased), Leroy, Noralee, and Molly. Her children meant everything to her. She adored her grandchildren Mason, Damon, Amara, Ryder, Anzie, Autumn, Eli, and Esther.
Diane had an older brother, John William Caldwell (now deceased), whose needs she helped care for later in his life. Through this experience, they became even closer and were the best of buddies. Diane also shared a very sweet relationship with her older sister, Linda Western. They loved to pretend they were twins and were as close as any sisters could be.
Diane earned a post-baccalaureate teacher education degree with secondary certification. She taught eighth-grade social studies at Gilbert Junior High for many years. Diane deeply cared about her students and used her talents to engage them and help foster a love of learning.
Diane was always willing to serve wherever she was needed, but she especially loved working with Cub Scouts. Once again, she had the opportunity to express her talents through fun and creative activities.
She loved being a mother, homemaker, and grandmother. Diane was a loyal friend and had many treasured friendships in her church ward. Most of all, she was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She never wavered, either in good times or in difficult times. Her influence was a light to all who knew her.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Patrick Fleming, 61, of Chandler, AZ passed away surrounded by loved ones on January 12, 2026 after an exciting battle with kidney cancer, the cancer cheated to win. While Patrick took life seriously, he was also comedic when faced with his fight against cancer.
Patrick was born on November 1st 1964, to Mike and June Fleming in Evergreen Park, IL. Not always fond of snow and cold, the family left for the sunny warmth of Arizona and never looked back. Patrick attended Mesa High and graduated from ASU, (Go Devils!), with a degree in Political Science in 1992. Patrick then earned a Master of Arts in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix in 2001.
What do you do with a Political Science degree? Well you sell and market meat. Patrick had a long, but not long enough, career selling meat. He finished his time as Vice President of Demand Development at the National Pork Board. Always passionate about meat and the great people that raise food, Patrick was most proud of his time representing America’s Pork Producers at the National Pork Board, Go Bacon!.
What was his true joy and brought him the most happiness was his family. His wife Karen was the love of his life and truly the best thing the ever happened to him. They were married for 33 happy years. He was blessed with a son Sean and a daughter Kelly.
Patrick enjoyed travelling with his family. The vacations and trips will provide loving memories that we cherish.
Anyone who knew Patrick knew that he was the most loving father and spouse a family could ask for. Patrick was predeceased by his mother, June, and his father Mike. Services will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 12:00pm at Bunkers Family Funerals & Cremation, 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201. You may observe the service via livestream using the following link: https://youtube.com/live/u0gyB4v0IVc?feature=share.
In lieu of flowers please make donates to the Patrick Fleming Mentor Recognition Fund, established in his honor and managed by the American Meat Science Association, linked here.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Cooper James Nichter passed away on January 15th, 2026 in a motorcycle accident.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Elna KAYE Nichols passed away peacefully January 17, 2026. She was released from her earthly ailment of dementia to be with The Lord above. She was 83.
She was born on December 12, 1942, in Sioux Falls, SD, while her parents, Kenneth & Nadine Brewington, were stationed there. After the war they returned to Kentucky to farm. In 1958 they moved to Mesa, AZ, and started up in the construction business.
Kaye met Nicky Nichols at a Methodist Church function in December 1958. They were married June 10, 1959. They had 2 sons, Glenn & Kenny Nichols.
Kaye approached Sally of Sally’s Fabrics while in high school asking if she could do some work for her, as she needed some fabric for a 4-H project. Sally offered her the fabric as long as they got the dress to put on display after it was complete. This was the start of Kaye sewing for the public. Kaye was very determined which led to her working on her sewing machine when needed. She later went to work for Sally’s as their sewing machine technician. Kaye became very well-known across the country for her sales and service of sewing machines in a male dominated industry. She had a passion for everything related— making clothes, quilts, crafts, teaching sewing, and so on.
Kaye would do whatever needed to be done. She farmed, drove tractors, built barns, nailed on tin, milked cows, did gardening, canned, changed oil in the cars, changed tires, and everything else a guy might do—and then she would cook meals and clean house top to bottom—all while remembering she was a lady. She took care of herself. Her fingernails and her hair was always done, whether she was waitressing at the Dairy Bar, doing maid service, taking care of horses, sewing, or all in between.
Being at the rodeos with Nicky she started timing and then became rodeo secretary. Kaye enjoyed the rodeos and roping events. She was Arizona Rodeo Association secretary for several years. She enjoyed being mom to the rodeo guys. She always had a crew around for breakfast. Mom made lots of pancakes!
But even more, she was mom to her grandson, AT, and Nana to her great granddaughters Alex & Acacia. She raised and took care of several generations.
Kaye joined her parents in heaven, her brother, Kenneth Earl Brewington, and son, Glenn Nichols. She is survived by her son, Kenny Nichols, of Waco, TX; grandson, AT Nichols; granddaughters, Alex (Jake) Weir and Acacia Nichols; and former husband, Nicky Nichols all of Gilbert, AZ; and her sister, Sylvia (Tom) Richards; and brothers, Larry (Vicky) Brewington and Gene Brewington, all of Mesa, AZ.
Kaye loved getting together with family and friends for food, fun, cards, games and music. No one ever needed an invitation or to call ahead to stop by. When at Kaye’s make yourself at home. During holidays mom made sure everyone knew they were welcome to come and eat. Her and her mom always had extra gifts on hand for Christmas time for the people mom invited last minute if she heard a family didn’t have anywhere to spend Christmas.
In Lieu of flowers take someone living by themselves out to eat or buy a stranger’s meal. Or take a page from Kaye’s playbook and pay someone’s water bill, electric bill or similar necessity for someone experiencing a hard time.
Viewing will take place on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 4-6pm at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ. A Graveside Service will be held at 10am on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at Mesa City Cemetery, 1212 N Center Street, Mesa, Arizona.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Francis (Butch) Harvey born in Ossining, New York on February 22, 1938 passed away on January 12, 2026 in Mesa, Arizona.
He is survived by his wife Barbara (Dilio) Harvey, daughter Gayle Guild (John), son Tony Burnette (Carrie), grandchildren Halle, Bethany, Anthony, Andrew, and Lily, brother Bob Harvey. Preceded by son Stephen Harvey and brother Jerry Harvey.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Arizona Obituaries And Obituary Archive
At Bunker Family Funerals & Cremation, we cherish each unique life, considering it special and sacred. Our obituary archive allows you to explore the obituaries of those we’ve had the privilege to care for, and gives you the chance to share thoughts, messages, or stories with their families.
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