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The world became a little less bright on January 29th, 2025, when Sonny James Rock passed away peacefully on his 52nd birthday in Gilbert, Arizona.

Sonny was born in Missoula, Montana to Donna and Daniel Rock. In his early years he lived in Montana and California, finally landing in Riverton, Ut in 1984.

Sonny loved spending time with his only brother, Jason, and they had an incredible bond. While in Utah, Sonny had many, many friends. He was known for his witty sense of humor and crazy antics. The fact he was awarded “Most Remembered” his senior year shows what an impact he had on his peers.

He met Michelle Laub the first day of his senior year and shortly after that they became inseparable. They married young on March 28th, 1992. Their family grew shortly thereafter and subsequently they had four daughters who were his entire world.

Michelle and Sonny lived in Iowa for 4 years where Sonny made many lifelong friends that continue to this day. They settled in Mesa, Arizona in 2001 where they raised their family. Sonny loved football, the outdoors, his friends, movies, concerts and traveling.

Though Sonny will be most remembered for his love of people, especially his family. He was a friend to all and made every person he met feel like they mattered and that he genuinely cared. Sonny always saw the best in people and encouraged everyone to be the best version of themselves.

Sonny leaves behind his wife Michelle, daughters Skyelee, Quynn, Peyton and Emery. His parents Donna and Robert Rock, brother Jason (Jyl Bosone). Mother In-Law Mona Davis (Kelly), Father In-Law Kevin Laub (Marianne). Sisters- In-Law, Erica Liti (Sam), Amy Bonnemort (Dave), Whitney Turley (Trace), Brothers-In-Law Brett Laub (Lacey) and Landon Laub (Norma) as well as many nieces and nephews who he cherished. We also cannot forget about his beloved dog, Bowtie.

In honor of Sonny, we encourage all to smile at a stranger, offer encouragement to a friend or reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in awhile.

#RockRockneverstop

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.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Phil Polizzatto, a loving father, devoted husband, and cherished grandfather. Phil passed away surrounded by his beloved family, leaving behind a legacy of love, joy, and laughter.

Phil was born and raised in New Jersey, where he formed the foundation of his values and work ethic. His journey led him to Arizona, where he built a beautiful life, enriched by the warmth of the desert sun and the company of dear friends and family.

Phil was a man of many passions, with a particular love for golf, fishing, and spending quality time with those he held dear. Whether on the green, by the water, or gathered around the dinner table, Phil’s presence was a source of joy and comfort. He had an extraordinary ability to light up a room with his infectious laugh and radiant smile, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.

As a father, Phil was nurturing and supportive, always encouraging his children to pursue their dreams with confidence. As a husband, he was unwavering in his devotion, a true partner in every sense of the word. As a grandfather, he was a source of endless love and wisdom, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Phil’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and the importance of cherishing life’s simple pleasures. He leaves behind his loving wife, his children who adored him, and grandchildren who will always remember the joy he brought into their lives. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Rest in peace, Phil. You will be dearly missed, but your spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all.

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.

Gary Lee Stone passed away peacefully on February 2nd at home in Gilbert, Arizona, under the loving care of his wife, Joy Stone.

He was a devoted husband, a father to three sons (Jason, Stuart, and Keith), a grandfather to ten grandchildren, and a great-grandfather to four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother (Randy Stone) and a sister (Tamara Stone Fox).

Born in Logan, UT, he grew up on a sugar beet farm outside Weston, Idaho. After the family home burned down, he lived in the basement and worked hard from a young age. Often working multiple jobs, Gary stayed busy and loved learning new things.

He built a career in law enforcement, rising to the rank of Lieutenant with the Pocatello Police Department. He later became a Latent Print Examiner in Arizona and worked as a defense contractor specializing in forensics. Service was a constant in his life. He was a dedicated home teacher, temple worker, and addiction recovery missionary, always willing to help others. He led quietly, teaching through action rather than words.

Though his passing leaves a void, his example remains. He now walks with his mother and father, Raymond and Larue Stone, who preceded him in death.

A memorial service will be held graveside in Weston, Idaho July 5th. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that his memory be honored through service, hard work, and quiet acts of kindness.

He will be deeply missed.

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.

Sherie Lynn Hawkins Anderson passed peacefully, surrounded by her children, on Sunday, January 19, 2025.

She was born to Margaret Elizabeth and Reed Cook Hawkins in Boise, Idaho, and was raised in a uniquely business-minded family. One of their first businesses was a small store in front of their house, and later, they became the owners of the Red Steer franchise restaurants. She recalled working from the young age of eight and often expressed gratitude for the experience, as it instilled in her a strong work ethic. Her family was known for taking on ambitious projects, often repeating the phrase, “Always a project, forever a dream.”

Sherie graduated from Borah High School in Boise, Idaho, in 1969. Later, in her adult years, she married Frans Daniel Verkerk and was blessed with two daughters, Valerie and Viktoria.

She later met the love of her life, William Edward Anderson. Their story began when Sherie owned a Baskin-Robbins 31 Flavors, where Bill was a regular customer—destined to fall in love. They married in Elko, Nevada, and embarked on many adventures together. They successfully owned and operated two fast-food, drive-through hamburger restaurants named Bronco Bill’s—famous for serving the best hamburgers in town!

Before their marriage, Bill had four children: Mel, Mindy, Justin, and Josh. Together, Sherie and Bill had two additional children, Jacob and Jeremiah Anderson.

Sherie was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her greatest joy was serving alongside her husband, Bill, as Stake Mission Leaders, where they worked together to share their faith and love for the gospel.

Sherie spent many years as a successful real estate agent and often involved the entire family in preparing homes for sale. She always went the extra mile to make each house feel warm and inviting.

She had a passion for baking and cooking, especially her famous chocolate chip cookies, homemade rolls, and all sorts of other treats. She loved preparing meals for others, often making sandwiches for contractors working around the house—acts of service that truly reflected her love language.

One of her favorite sayings was, “Love you to the Moon and back.” This simple phrase encapsulated the deep love she had for her husband, children, and grandchildren.

She and Bill were blessed with many travel experiences, visiting places such as Rome and Hong Kong.

Sherie was preceded in death by her parents, Reed Cook Hawkins and Margaret Elizabeth Hawkins, and by her eternal companion of 44 years, William Edward Anderson.

She is survived by:

• Siblings and their spouses: Gary Hawkins (Gail), Jan Hawkins, Luann Warren (Brad), and Karen Hawkins.
• Children and their spouses: Valerie Verkerk (Joseph), Viktoria Verkerk, Jacob Anderson (Tanya), and Jeremiah Anderson (Samantha).
• Grandchildren: Kolbie, Kinzie, Jayden, Blake, Sage, Sylas, Roman, Mckenzie, and Sienna.
• Great-grandchildren: Ronan, Evelyn, and Gary Jr.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

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.

Steffan Waters passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona.

Steffan was born June 24, 1940, in Stranraer Scotland, son of John Richard Waters and Gertrude Maude Minns (Geldarski).

He met his best friend, and the love of his life Alma Lois Waters at Wright’s grocery store in Mesa, Arizona. He worked in the produce department, and she used her creative talent in the bakery. They were married December 27, 1958, and from their union they raised four children, three sons and one daughter.

Steffan built a home for his family in Mesa, where they lived for over 50 years. He worked hard to provide for his family; in the early years as an Airman in the Air Force and in his later years he worked in the fire department, retiring in 1991 as a Battalion Chief for the Mesa Fire Department.

In his free time, Steffan enjoyed keeping busy, working with his hands, building things, projects around the house and spending time with Lois, friends and family, especially his grandchildren. He would often entertain them by creating projects for them to build or amusing them with his little magic tricks, like pulling his thumb apart.

Steffan had a sharp sense of humor and could always be counted on for a story or a joke. He was poised and ready to quiz his grandchildren on historical facts and other educational topics. He was very proud of his heritage and was a true British Gentleman. His accent would become increasingly strong when he met others from Scotland or England and he would often get dressed up just to go to Walmart, putting on his sweater and his bowtie.

Patriotism, and love of country was always a huge part of his life. As a child  he survived World War Two and later came to the United States as a teenager with his mother. He was just as proud to be an American as he was an Englishman and it wasn’t unusual to see American flags displayed around his home and patriotic music playing, particularly when the grandkids were little and he had created playlist for them on CD’s.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Richard and Gertrude, his wife Lois and their eldest son Robert. He is survived by his half-brother; Andre Geldarski, his daughter in law; Karin, and children Judy, Edward (Aretta) and John (Holly), 11 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

He was truly loved and will greatly be missed.

Mosiah 15:23

“They are raised to dwell with God who has redeemed them, thus they have eternal life through Christ, who has broken the bands of death”

Services will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025.

9:00 am to 10:15 am – Viewing

10:30 am – Funeral

Graveside services will be held at 2 PM on the same day at the City of Mesa Cemetery 1212 North Center St., Mesa, AZ.

For those who cannot attend the services will be on Zoom under Steffan Waters’ Funeral please click on the following link:

https://zoom.us/j/96980804646

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 Cecilia Hartley, who peacefully departed this life on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on November 19, 1957, in Mesa, Arizona, Cecilia was a beloved Mother, Sister, Aunt and Friend.

She leaves behind her cherished children, Robert Hartley (Natividad), and Amanda Hartley and her grandchildren, Jace and Zoey who were the lights of her life. Cecilia is also survived by her devoted brothers, Jerry Gaona and Carlos Gaona, as well as her beloved sisters, Carmen Nebrich and Becky Sanchez.

She was preceded in death by her mother and Father, Samuel and Nemecia Gaona.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, February 1^st at 12:00pm, at Compass Christian Church in Chandler Arizona.

Cecilia will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her kindness, warmth, and love for family will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

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.

Marcos Antonio Daniel, 26, of Mesa, Arizona passed away on January 15, 2025.

Marcos was born on March 25^th, 1998, in Mesa, Arizona the son of Kimberly Daniel.

He met his soulmate, Oriah Noriega, while attending Canyon Valley Highschool in Mesa, Arizona.  Marcos and Oriah were blessed with a son and two daughters and had built a loving home.

Marcos worked hard to provide for his family and was currently working in the HVAC industry.

In his free time, Marcos enjoyed working with his hands, taking things apart and rebuilding them better.  He also enjoyed camping and spending time with animals, but his real love was spending time with his family.

Marcos had a great sense of humor and was a constant source of joy to his friends and family.

He is survived by his son Kingston, daughters Ailani and Amina, soulmate Oriah Noriega, sister Lyricah Daniel, mother Kimberly Daniel and stepfather Ramon Saavedra.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 1^st, 2025, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 618 S. Signal Butte Rd. 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.

On January 25, 2025, John Nix Wright passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by many who loved him.  He succumbed to an advanced cancer which he fought with remarkable faith and courage.

John was the eldest child born April 20, 1947, to John W. (Jack) and Jeanne Nix Wright in Mesa, Arizona.  He had many life-long friends from his years at Emerson Elementary, West Junior High (now Carson Junior High) and Westwood High School.  In his early teens, he worked on Saturdays at Wright’s Market with his father at Jack’s West End and learned the value of work.  He was proud to be in the first graduating class of Westwood High School where he served on the student council and played sports, excelling in baseball and was chosen as the All-State first baseman in his senior year.  He then attended Mesa Community College and played baseball prior to his two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to the Andes Mission from 1966-1968, which then included the South American countries of Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Venezuela and Colombia.

A few months after returning home, he met Jane Randall at an Arizona State University LDS Institute dance.  Six months later they were married and sealed for eternity in the Mesa Arizona Temple.  They both finished their education at ASU and John then received a master’s degree at Thunderbird Graduate School in International Management.  A few years later, he decided to go to law school, obtaining his Juris Doctor of Law from ASU.  He practiced law as a partner at Riggs, Wright & Smith for eight years, and then he and his childhood friend Larry John began the Larry John Wright Advertising Agency.  There he used his many creative talents, compelling personality and business skills to develop a successful agency. Valued and important client relationships were also formed during these years, and he was rewarded with many TV station trips that allowed him and Jane to travel throughout the world, which increased their love for people and cultures.  But Lake Powell was his happy place as he drove his boat and fished with family and friends.

John had many natural gifts but credited his love for music from his parents.  He became an accomplished musician. During his school years he played in several bands.  In grade school he was in the Mesa Imps and then he played keyboard, saxophone and sang in many rock ‘n roll bands with cousins and friends beginning in the 1960’s for more than 30 years. His children have lasting memories singing next to the piano while he played.

John was active in civic and community affairs, including serving on the boards of the United Way, Mesa Historical Society, the Grand Canyon Council of the Boy Scouts of America, and as president of The Mesa Foundation.  His profound faith remained the center of his life as he served as a Young Men’s leader, Elder’s Quorum President, Bishop, and counselor in two Maricopa North Stake Presidencies. He and his wife loved serving for 18 months in the California Anaheim Mission, returning home in November 2023. One of his most recent and beloved callings was to be an ordinance worker in the Mesa Arizona Temple with his wife.

John was a devoted friend to all, and his generosity was legendary. His warmth, quick wit and humor will never be forgotten.  He was happiest planning meals and cooking for large groups for his family, church and community.

John is survived by his wife Jane, and their nine children: Jenee Prince (Ivan), J.R. (Molly), Julianna Larsen (Lars), Jackson (Gina), Jamie Williams (Dallin), Jacob (Bridget), Jason (Jill), Guffy (Brittany), and Jill Morrow (Chris).  John is survived by two brothers, Jim Lorenzo (Tina), Jack Garnet (Janeen), as well as three sisters, Jeanine Smith Turley (Kent), Joy Arnett (Chet) and Julie Blair (Jay). John and Jane have 43 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.  His family was his greatest treasure.

Interment will be Saturday, February 1, at 11:00 a.m. at the Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center, Mesa, 85201.  Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 1, at 2:00 p.m. at the Mesa Maricopa North Stake Center 1718 N. Date, Mesa AZ 85201.   In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Arizona Refugee Center, 35 N. Alma School Road, Mesa, AZ  85201, Tax EIN #93-2224570.

If you are unable to attend the service, please click on the following link to livestream the service: https://zoom.us/j/94777232572

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.

Jeanene Blau Castillo passed away on January 22, 2025, after a 4-year battle with cancer. She was 73 years old and leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and service. 

Born on December 16, 1951, in Logan, Utah to Geniel and Gerald Blau, she was the oldest of 8 children. She grew up in Mesa, AZ and attended Westwood High School. After high school, Jeanene went to BYU and ASU for nursing. She worked as an ER nurse for 17 years and was a well-loved substitute teacher after she retired. Throughout her life she freely shared her nursing expertise, the fruits of her garden, a handmade ceramic gift, and calm faith and knowledge with any neighbor or friend who needed her. 

Jeanene found joy being a mother to her 5 children and a few dozen other “acquired” children that became part of the family. She welcomed so many people into her home and made sure each felt loved and was well- fed. 

She is survived by her husband Rod Castillo and their children Keith Castillo, Todd Castillo, Alicia Bear, Geneva Anderson, Elena Boushley and their spouses. She is survived by her siblings Bonita Quillen, Gary Blau, Jeff Blau, Duane Blau, David Blau, and Donalyn Blau and their spouses. She is preceded in death by her parents and brother Steve Blau. Jeanene leaves a legacy of 23 grandchildren and countless lives she touched.

Services will be held Friday, Jan 31, 2025, with the viewing at 10am and funeral at 11am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 525 E. 2nd Ave Mesa, AZ 85204

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.

Frankie Juan Sr., 63, of Komatke, Arizona: passed away on January 13, 2025 in Casa Blanca, Arizona.  He is survived by 2 sisters, Karen Davis (Brian) of Casa Blanca, Arizona and Vernice Juan of Komatke, Arizona: 3 brothers, Thomas Juan Sr, (Feleica), Glenn Juan, and Kelsy Juan, all of Komatke, Arizona: 1 son, Francisco Juan, 1 daughter Kelly Juan, both of Komatke, Arizona: 2 stepdaughters, Angela Hendricks and Candra Hendricks of Komatke, Arizona; and 1 stepson Sergio Martinez of Komatke, Arizona; and 13 grandchildren.

During his time here he was a construction worker, he enjoyed watching sports, his favorites were basketball and football.  He also enjoyed sitting outside enjoying the weather, listening to music and watching the kinds as they played.

He is preceded in death by a son Frankie Juan Jr., his loving companion Caroline Peters, his parents Ethel Allison and Maurice Juan Sr., 4 brothers and 2 sisters all of Komatke, Arizona.

Services will be held on Friday, January 31^st at The District Six Learning Center located at 5230 St Johns Road, Laveen Village, Arizona.  A Rosary will be held at 6:00 P.M. and a Wake from 7:00 P.M. to Midnight.  Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 1^st at 8:00 A.M. at St John The Baptist Catholic Church located at 5407 West Pecos Road, Laveen, Arizona.  A Graveside service will follow at St John Cemetery in Komatke, 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.

Our Beloved Aunt, Janet Strobel, passed away peacefully 1/24/2025, she was 91. She was born in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Aunt Janet was a beautiful person with a heart of gold and the best aunt ever.

Her favorite thing to do was go shopping. She also loved taking us, with my Dad, to Coney Island Amusement Park, when we were little, our fondest memory of all.

She was a hard worker and one of her amazing jobs was working for the Navy making submarine parts.

We love and will miss you very much.

She is survived by: Her nieces: Denise & Susan; her Nephew: Edward & her Nephew-in-laws: James & Frank

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.

Melanie Schneider (Lana), 60, passed away on January 20, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona.

She was born to Alfred and Rita Morales on March 31, 1964.

Melanie graduated from New Mexico State with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She moved to Oceanside, California, where she met her husband, Dean Schneider. The two got married on December 28, 1988.  Melanie and Dean resided in San Diego, California, where they had two sons, Solomon Richard, and Matthew Barron. They also lived in North Dakota and Minnesota. They made their final move to Arizona in 2017.

Melanie’s favorite activities were supporting her sons at their sporting events, taking care of their two dogs, Dallas and Shadow, and reading.

Melanie is survived by her husband, Dean, her son, Solomon (daughter-in-law, Amy, granddaughter, Lana), her son, Matthew, her mother, Rita Burke, her brother, Marvin Morales, her sisters, Melodie Cruz, Melissa Lopez (Roman), Rosella (Bibi) Sosa, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Melanie is preceded in death by her father, Alfred Morales, second oldest brother, Alfred (Steven) Morales.

The family will be having a private service in Mesa, Arizona on Saturday, February 1, 2025.

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.

Carledy Gurr Smith was born in American Fork, UT on May 2, 1958 and passed away in Mesa, AZ on January 22, 2025 at the age of 66.

She was preceded in death by her father Carl T. Gurr Sr.

She is survived by her husband, Kenneth Wayne Smith, their six children: KJ (Niki), Ben (Keri), Curtis (Whitney), Mystee (Antonio), Jesse, Meledy (Jeff) as well as fourteen grandchildren. She is the 2^nd of eight children and is survived by her mother Edlyn Gurr and all seven siblings; Vicki, Loren, Wendy, Carl T., Kari, Rhonda, Angie.

Her early childhood was spent in Orem Utah then in November of 1968 they moved to San Bernardino CA and eventually moved to Mesa AZ in June of 1970. She graduated from Westwood High school class of 1976.

She married Ken on June 17, 1978 in the Mesa AZ Temple. They moved into their house in east Mesa September 1978 where they raised their family.

For a time she worked for Mesa Public Schools as a playground Mom and as an aid in a special needs classroom. She loved to read and do arts and crafts especially woodworking.

Visitation date: 02/01/2025  at 9:30 AM

Service Date: 02/01/2025 at 11:00 am

Location: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – 5350 E McClellan Rd, Mesa, AZ 85205

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.

Pedro Del Cid, 99, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, in Maricopa, AZ, surrounded by the love of his family. A man of nature and deep resilience, Pedro leaves behind a legacy of hard work, determination, and unyielding devotion to those he cherished.

Born on April 13, 1925, in La Reforma, Sonora, Mexico, Pedro was the son of Sofia Del Cid and was raised by his aunt, Virginia Del Cid. Life on the ranch instilled in him a relentless work ethic from a young age, as he left school after third grade to support his household. Despite this, Pedro taught himself to read and write, sparking a lifelong determination to improve his circumstances.

In the early 1950s, Pedro’s resilience shone as he pursued the dream of a better life in the United States. Pedro made several attempts to immigrate to the United States, each time encountering obstacles but never losing hope. His ingenuity led him to a breakthrough— dressed in his finest suit that helped him blend in as a “businessman.” he boarded a bus and pretended to be asleep, avoiding questions from the conductor. Arriving in the U.S. in the early 1950s, Pedro settled in Mesa, AZ, working tirelessly in agriculture, supporting his daughter Vicki and family in Mexico. By 1958, his hard work, dedication, and integrity earned him permanent residency.

Pedro’s life took a joyful turn when he met his wife, Margarita, in the mid-1960s. They married on January 14, 1968, in Tubutama, Sonora, Mexico, and together, Pedro and Margarita raised five children— Pete Jr., Leticia, Jesus Francisco “Frankie,” Raquel, and Lucia. They built a family rooted in love and resilience and instilled in them the values of perseverance, humility, and gratitude, as well as passed on values of strength and faith.

With a natural green thumb and love for the outdoors, Pedro found joy intending to plants and feeding the birds. His passion for agriculture led him to a fulfilling career as a groundskeeper, first with Marriott Hotels, purchasing stocks with Marriott, and later at Apache Wells Golf Course in Mesa, AZ, where he dedicated over 25 years of service. Even after retiring and into his late 80s, Pedro continued to work hard, and his commitment to his family never wavered.

Pedro’s love of music and quiet moments brought him peace. He enjoyed Javier Solis and old-time boleros, often playing the guitar, accordion, or harmonica—his favorite activity: sitting outside under the warm Arizona sun, appreciating the beauty of nature.

Pedro’s legacy is carried on by his six children: Vicki, Pete Jr. (Lisa), Leticia (Raymond), Frankie (Melissa), Raquel (Craig), and Lucia (Rafael); eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; Pedro joins his beloved wife, Margarita, and many loved ones who preceded him in eternal rest.

Don Pedro was a man of strong character. Intimidating at times, he couldn’t complete a sentence without a curse word or two but had a great sense of humor and a good heart. He is deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him. His life is a reminder that perseverance can overcome any obstacle. May he rest in peace.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Bunker Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ. Visitation will take place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with burial to follow at Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center St., Mesa, AZ.

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.

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE so beautifully lived.

Loria Mae Johnson Woods was born December 24, 1945, to the late Promise and Rosilee Johnson in Church Point, LA. She was raised in a loving home with nine siblings including a twin sister, Gloria. The family later moved to Lake Charles, LA where their home became a strong cornerstone in the community. The family joined Mt. Olive Baptist Church where Loria was baptized at the age of twelve.

As a teen, she moved to Los Angeles, CA, to live with one of her older sisters, Bessie Rosamore. She graduated from Manuel Arts High School and attended L.A. City College. While in high school, she met Everette Woods and they were married on February 29, 1964. To this union were born two beautiful children, Nancy and Everette II.

Loria had a long career working for Xerox Corporation and Hughes Aircraft Company while living in California. Loria worked for a short time at Hughes Helicopter. She quickly found her calling while caring for her grandchildren. This calling expanded to a full daycare called PeeWee’s Playhouse, mainly caring for children of Boeing employees. After 12 years as a daycare owner, she continued to work with children at the Gilbert Public Schools where she finally decided to retire.

In her mid-twenties she received Jesus Christ as her Savior and Lord. They joined the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church pastored by Dr. E.V. Hill, where Loria was an active usher and church school member. They were members until 1986 when the family moved to Mesa, AZ.

Upon arriving in Arizona, they joined First Institutional Baptist Church, Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., Senior Pastor. She was a Deaconess, and served on the Pastor’s Aid Ministry, Evangelism Commission Ministry, Church School Ministry, Disciple Maker and Operation Homebase (Street Witnessing). On September 15, 1996, the Lord called her to preach. She preached her first sermon and was licensed on December 17, 1997. Her sermon was taken from Luke 2:8-20 entitled, “Your Guest Has Arrived”. Her passion was witnessing and preaching in the park to all who would hear.

She later joined the New Beginning Fellowship Church pastored by the Reverends Tommy and Nancy Reynolds. She continued to Evangelize, teach and preach the Word of God. After the pastor’s failing health, they joined the New Home Baptist Church in Phoenix under the leadership of Pastor Darryl Jackson. She was an active member at the East Valley campus where she loved to hear the preaching of Pastor Jackson and the singing of Lady Ericka Jackson. After the pandemic and her failing health, she enjoyed watching service from home.

She departed this life on Tuesday morning, January 14, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Promise and Rosilee Johnson; brothers, Johnnie Johnson, LeRoy Johnson, Rodney Johnson, Cooper Johnson and sister, Bessie Rosamore.

She leaves to mourn her absence, a loving husband of 60 years, Everette Woods; two children, Nancy Reynolds (Tommy), Mesa AZ and Everette Woods II, Mesa, AZ; five grandchildren, Vanessa Reynolds, Atlanta, GA; Portia Reynolds, Chandler AZ; Thomas Reynolds (Jasminn) Phoenix, AZ; Nathan Woods, Spavinaw, OK; Arianna Woods, Mesa, AZ; five great-grandchildren, Tianna Alyse, Riot Noble, Franswah LaVaughn, Kairo Noble, and Phoenix Ever; one brother, Linton Johnson, Lake Charles, LA; three sisters, Mary Lou Hanchett, Lake Charles, LA; Gloria King, Atlanta, GA; and Norma Cotton (Melvin), Carson, CA; and a host of adopted sons & daughters, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Donations to honor Loria can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at : https://act.alz.org/site/TR;jsessionid=00000000.app20007b?pxfid=934156&pg=fund&fr_id=1060&NONCE_TOKEN=E27875FBA57C4EC8A66BF4D55EEEA975

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.

Bruce Allen Mosey passed away Wednesday January 8, 2025, in Mesa Arizona.

Bruce was born at Mesa’s old Southside District Hospital October 5, 1963, to Benjamin Allen John Mosey Jr. and Etheleen Pease Mosey who both preceded him in death. Bruce is survived by his only sibling, Benjamin Kevin Mosey, sister-in-law Karen Thulin Mosey, and 3 nephews, Ben (Beth), Kendall, and Seth (Keegan),2 great-nephews and 6 great-nieces. Bruce is also preceded in death by 1 older brother, Kent Mosey, and a nephew, Jonathan Mosey.

Bruce attended school at Edison Elementary, Kino Junior High, and Westwood High (class of ’81) all in Mesa. Places where Bruce worked included Gino’s Pizza (Mesa), Top Seal Corporation (Phoenix), Hammerhead’s Bar (Tempe), and DHL Express (Phoenix). Bruce enjoyed music and became an accomplished guitarist, playing in private rock bands, including the Hammer Band at Hammerhead’s. He will be greatly missed by numerous dear friends, loved ones, and fellow workers.

A memorial/celebration of life is planned for February 1, 2025, 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. at the Apache Wells Community Clubhouse at 2215 N. 56th St., Mesa AZ He will later be interred at the Thatcher AZ Cemetery to rest alongside his beloved Mother and Grandmother.

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.