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Eddie Carroll Blackburn, 66, passed peacefully in his sleep on November 25, 2025.

Born in Greenfield, Iowa, in 1959 to Zylpha and Carroll “Max” Blackburn, Ed lived a life marked by his sense of humor, adventure, and an immense love for his family.

A native of Malvern, Ed was a standout athlete in High School and at Wayne State College, excelling in both football and track from 1978–1982. He earned All-American honors in both sports and was recognized as a top tight end on the football field and as a two-time high All-American hurdler in track. His speed and determination led to multiple records and ultimately his induction into the WSC Athletics Hall of Fame in 2001.

After college, Ed signed as a free agent with the Denver Broncos before suffering a career-ending hamstring injury. After graduating in 1982 with a master’s degree in education, Ed moved to Arizona and devoted his career to teaching industrial technology at Desert Shadows Middle School in Apache Junction, Arizona, where he also coached track. He continued in education, training employees at Valleywise Hospital in Phoenix until he retired.

He was industrious and always had a project that he was working on. He was the person everyone called for help when something broke. Ed was happiest outdoors. He loved mountain biking, hiking, and exploring. He even had a thriving garden despite the Arizona heat. His quick wit, easy laugh, and his signature catch phrase “Get out!” made every moment with him fun and unforgettable.

His life was made even richer by Kelly, whose love and companionship brought him warmth, adventure, and happiness. Above all, Ed cherished his family.

Left to carry his legacy forward are his daughters, Amanda (Josh) Fitzsimmons and Amy (Cale) Wolff, and his beloved grandchildren, Zelpha and Calvin. He also leaves behind his siblings and their families; Gwyn, Cheryl, Marsheila, Melonie, and Darin, who he was exceptionally close with.

Ed lived big, loved big, and left a mark no one could ever replace.

A celebration of life will take place in January in Arizona, please reach out to the family for more information.

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.

Joelynn Jolley Hadlock, a resident of Mesa, Arizona, for forty-six years, passed away peacefully at her home on November 20, 2025, surrounded by family. She is survived by her loving husband of fifty-three years, John LeGrand Hadlock, their seven children—Brandan (Christine) Hadlock, Heather Valene (John) Middleton, Cameran (Amy Jo) Hadlock, Starla (Kenneth) Allen, Tylan (Heidi) Hadlock, Trentan (Jena) Hadlock, and Breena (Jake) Campbell—and twenty-three grandchildren.

Joelynn was born on June 17, 1945, in Farmington, New Mexico, to U.S. Navy serviceman William Curtis Jolley and businesswoman Louise Taylor Jolley. A “war baby,” she grew up in Farmington as the oldest of nine children. She won the title of Miss Farmington in 1963 at age seventeen and later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in interior design from Brigham Young University. A devoted disciple of Jesus Christ, she served as a Spanish-speaking missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Miami, Florida, and was among the first missionaries called to serve in Puerto Rico. Joelynn married John on November 20, 1972, in Salt Lake City, Utah, beginning a partnership marked by faith, dedication, and deep love.

Joelynn loved color, music, and all things beautiful, and she delighted in creating warm, welcoming spaces for her family and friends. She taught her children to be assertive, determined, and resilient. Her faith in Jesus Christ shaped every part of her life, and her family finds peace in knowing she has returned to His care.

Always poised and ladylike, Joelynn was constantly engaged in meaningful work and had a remarkable ability to “make things fit” with creativity and confidence. Undaunted and intimidated by nothing, she was adept at taking charge of a situation, finding the positive, and offering what she believed would be in everyone’s best interest.

Though she did not have an official middle name, her family lovingly jokes that if she had, it might have been “the Inquisitor.” She loved to ask questions—and always had a million of them.

Her greatest joy was serving her family and her Savior, and the influence of her love and testimony will bless generations to come.

The family expresses deep appreciation to all who prayed for, visited, and cared for Joelynn, and to the many ward members and friends whose love and service reflected the Savior’s compassion.

• A viewing will be held Friday evening, December 5, 2025, from 6 – 8 PM
• Location: Bunker Family Funeral Home Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way Mesa, Arizona 85201 

•  Another viewing will be held December 6, from 9:30-10:30 AM
• Location: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 925 N Harris Dr, Mesa, AZ 85203
• Funeral services will follow at 11 AM.

A livestream will be available at

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 Carlos Jones, a special spirit and beautiful soul, passed peacefully in his sleep, November 19th, 2025.

He knew he was loved. He has always been an angel on Earth. 

Gary’s mission was complete in this life and we were lucky he was here with us as his companions. 

He loved to dance, sing along to musicals, swing at the park, and read cat magazines. He had a love of hats, cool jewelry and diet soda. 

He is survived by his loving Mother, Joy Christensen Jones, his siblings, Vicki, Janie, Bruce, Aaron, Julie, and Maria and their families. He was an amazing uncle to 29 nieces and nephews and an ever present constant source of love and hugs. He was preceded in death by his father Rod Jones and brother in law Harold. 

Gary attended Mesa Public schools and Graduated from Westwood High School in 2003. 

Gary served an LDS mission at Deseret Industries in Mesa, and participated in the Mesa Temple Easter pageant for several years.

He worked at the MARC center in Mesa for 20 years. 

He was happy and cozy in his own bed, and passed peacefully, due to severe sleep apnea.

We were so blessed to have him teach us patience, unconditional love and kindness to everyone. 

His Funeral will be Saturday November 29th, with a viewing at 9am and funeral at 10am at  933 E. Brown road, In Mesa, AZ.

Burial will take place in Pima, AZ later that day.

Jerry Sandstrom passed away peacefully in Mesa, Arizona, with his wife of 63 years, Mavis, at his side.

Born in Lisbon, North Dakota, Jerry grew up on the family farm, where he learned the values of hard work, responsibility, and quiet strength that shaped his life.

He graduated from Lisbon High School and later earned his degree from Dakota Business College in Fargo, where he and the love of his life, Mavis Joy Robinson, were both students and met through mutual friends. They were married on December 8, 1962, in Leeds, North Dakota, and began their life together in Fargo.

Jerry’s early career with AAA took the young couple across the Upper Midwest before they moved “back home” to North Dakota in 1977. His work in Chamber of Commerce and economic development roles later brought the family to Minnesota and North Dakota communities they grew to love. In every place they lived, Mavis also worked in accounting and banking, making each new beginning a true partnership.

Jerry was a lifelong Lutheran who lived his faith quietly and sincerely. He rarely missed a Sunday, never missed grace before supper, and volunteered regularly — often singing in the choir and supporting the life of the church. He also served more than 25 years in the North Dakota National Guard in a band and chorus unit that traveled widely to perform for troops and the public. He returned each year from Guard camp with the same smile and the same story: that his musicians had again proven to be excellent marksmen.

Jerry was a gifted and practical builder who made life work with his hands — repairing engines, building what was needed, and teaching his children how to work with tools and think through problems. He was steady, loving, and constant. A well-known saying describes him perfectly: “A dad is someone who holds you when you cry, scolds you when you break the rules, shines with pride when you succeed, and has faith in you even when you fail.”

Jerry is survived by his wife, Mavis; his children, Steward (Jean) Sandstrom and Rochelle Sandstrom; and his grandchildren, Jonathan Sandstrom, William Sandstrom, Amilia (Hannah) Funkhouser, Oliver Knight, and Cecilia (Marissa) Knight-Hart. He is also survived by his sister, Marie (Loren) Erickson; His cousin, Sandra (Mark) Vee; his sister-in-law, Noreen (Wally) Bisbee; his brother-in-law, Darcy (Myrna) Robinson; and by a large and loving extended family — cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who remained an important part of his life. Jerry was preceded in death by his sister, Gwen (Bernie) Schultz; his brother, Darrell Sandstrom; his cousin, Gloria Vee; and his parents, Edward and Gladys Sandstrom.

Jerry loved gatherings that brought people together.

A memorial service will be held at Bunker’s University Chapel in Mesa on December 6, 2025 at 2:00 PM. There will be refreshments to follow the service.

A funeral service will follow in Leeds, North Dakota, in late May or early June of next year.

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.

William Cliff Yardley Obituary William Cliff Yardley, age 87, passed away at home on November 16, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona. He was born in Beaver, Utah on November 2, 1938, second of four children of William Rowland Yardley and Hazel Barton.

Raised on a cattle ranch and farm, working alongside his father and other family members. He learned honesty, responsibility, and dependability. Attended Beaver High School where he ran track and played football and basketball. During his senior year in basketball, he averaged 22.5 points per game. After high school, he played with college summer league teams, church teams, and city leagues. Graduated from Utah State University. Served in the Utah National Guard for six years.

Married Nancy Marshall on June 24, 1961, in the St. George Temple. They had four daughters and two sons. Cliff loved each one dearly and did his best to teach, love, and support them, and help them find their way in life. He loved dancing with Nancy and often referred to her as “my Nancy”. Enjoyed horseback riding, training dogs, hunting, fishing, and camping with family.

Worked 43 years for the Bureau of Land Management of the U.S. Department of the Interior, serving in numerous positions in Utah, California, and Arizona. Following retirement, he owned a consulting business, continuing his work with the BLM.

Known for his solid testimony of Jesus Christ, he dedicated himself to serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His motto was “Who, by name, have I actually helped today.” Developed great expertise in family history work. Served in a variety of Church callings related to family history: stake indexing director, stake high councilor, ward consultant, etc. He especially enjoyed helping people from all over the world, from his home, during his mission for seven years with the FamilySearch Support Mission.

Survived by his wife, Nancy, and their six children: Kellie (Kevin), Curtis (Bonnie), Natalie (Norman), Heather (Todd), Nicole (Richard), Nathan (Tara); 44 grandchildren; 59 great-grandchildren.

Viewing: LDS Church, 940 E. Southern Ave, Mesa, Arizona, on Saturday, November 29, 2025, 9:00 A.M.

Funeral: LDS Church, 940 E. Southern Ave, Mesa, Arizona, on Saturday, November 29, 2025, 10:00 A.M.

Graveside service: Mesa Arizona City Cemetery, 1212 N. Center St, Mesa, Arizona immediately following the funeral.

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.

John W Lester, age 95, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025 in Tempe, Arizona.  John was born in Binghamton, New York on September 1, 1930 to Clair and Evalyn Lester. He was active in the Boy Scouts and received his Eagle award in 1947.  He graduated from Binghamton North High School in 1948.  He studied engineering at Clarkson University (formerly Clarkson College of Technology) in Potsdam, New York, receiving his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (BME) in 1952. Following graduation, he was employed by the General Motors Research Laboratories in Detroit, Michigan.

He entered the Navy in 1954 and served for over two years in the Pacific Fleet, based in San Diego, California.  While in San Diego, he met Shirley Bloyd and they were married in Lincoln, Kansas, on June 22, 1957.  They moved to Annapolis, Maryland, where he was an Instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy for two years.  He was released from active duty in 1959, and enrolled in the University of Minnesota’s graduate school.  He received his Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) in 1961.

While in Minneapolis, the couple’s first child, Philip, was born in July 1959.  They moved to Phoenix, Arizona in April 1961, and they welcomed Janet in May 1961.  He was employed with the Allied Signal Aerospace Corporation (formerly AiResearch Manufacturing Company, and the Garrett Corporation; now Honeywell, Inc.) and was with them for over 29 years, retiring in 1990.  He was a registered professional engineer in the state of Arizona.

John remained in the Naval Reserve after active duty rising to the rank of Captain prior to his retirement in 1987.  He served from 1972 to 2006 as an Admissions Liaison Officer for the U.S. Naval Academy and was the Arizona State Coordinator, responsible for the Naval Academy counseling program throughout the state.

John was an active charter member of Los Arcos United Methodist Church in Scottsdale.  He was also very active in his professional engineering society, the Society of Automotive Engineers.  He was the founder of the Arizona section of the society in 1963, and served as its first chairman.  He has served on many national committees of the Society, including its National Board of Directions from 1977 to 1980.

John was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Shirley and his parents and sisters, Clair, Evalyn, Eleanor and Carolyn.  Survivors include son Phil, daughter-in-law Beth, daughter Janet, son-in-law Dan, granddaughters Hilary (Patrick), Hannah (Jacob), Alexandria and Jenna and his sister Nancy.  A celebration of his life is planned for Saturday, March 21 at 10:00 a.m. at Skirm Auditorium at Friendship Village in Tempe, AZ. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice of the Valley are suggested.

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 Angel Mother, Sharon Merrill, passed away on November 17, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona. She was 70 years old.

Sharon was the 2nd child of 3 children born to Richard Morgan and Darlene Engelbrecht. She was born on May 6, 1955, in Jerome, Idaho and was raised and lived there throughout her young life. The family eventually moved to Arizona and that was where they would call home. She has many wonderful memories of her childhood with her older brother, Bill and her younger sister, Vicki. Sharon attended and graduated from Mesa High School in 1973.

She married our father, Kurt Hansen Merrill in the Mesa Arizona Temple on September 12, 1975. Their marriage brought 5 children into the world, 4 sons and 1 daughter. They raised their children in Mesa, Arizona because it was a wonderful place to live. Our Father later passed away on December 24, 2012 and our Mother truly missed having her sweetheart by her side.

Sharon was a life-long member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many callings throughout her life. These included Primary Teacher, Nursery Worker and loved any calling serving children. While raising her own family, Sharon enjoyed being employed outside of the home to help provide for them. One of her favorite jobs was working several years at a day care center. She also studied and acquired her medical assistant certificate. She was employed many years by the Banner hospitals, working in both medical records and radiology. She loved her job and being with the patients and her co-workers. She had a contagious smile and simply loved people.

Throughout her life, Sharon was loved by all who met and associated with her. She had a kind and tender heart that allowed her to feel love for everyone. The greatest joy of her life was serving others, but especially her family. She had a deep love for her special needs son, David. She loved and served him all of her life.

Her posterity presently includes 5 children, 14 grandchildren who are Branson, Dayton, Camden, Felicity, Rylee, Crew, Ridge, Kadence, JR, Beau, Ryden, Braxton, Kambria and Gage. She loved attending their events and being a Grandmother to them. Our mother had many wonderful qualities and one of those was the ability to recognize the needs of others and to love and serve them however she could. She faced many health challenges throughout her life, but persevered with a good attitude while enduring these trials. Her desire was to live the teachings of our Savior and always follow His example. As her children, we feel very blessed to have someone so Christ-like as our Mother.

Sharon is preceded in death by our dad, Kurt, her father and her brother. She is survived by her 5 children – John Merrill (Felicia), David Merrill, Tisha Mortensen (Ryan), Steven Merrill, Michael Merrill (Brooke), all of her grandchildren, her mother and stepfather, Darlene and Raymond “Louie” Engelbrecht, as well as her sister, Vicki Mrozinski.

Funeral services will be held Friday, November 21, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel, 3920 E. Brown Road, Mesa, AZ, 85205. There will be a visitation from 8:00 – 8:45 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will take place at the Mesa City Cemetery following the Services. 1212 N. Center Street, Mesa, AZ, 85201.

We want to thank family and friends for their love and prayers for us on behalf of our Mother.

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 Hepworth Taylor was born March 26, 1956, in Phoenix, Arizona to Robert L. Hepworth and Edythe Mae Brookshire and passed away on October 31, 2025, at the age of 69.

Diane served in the Army; however, was honorably discharged for medical reasons. She worked as a seamstress sewing for her father’s awning business in Phoenix for many years until the business was sold. Diane loved to attend plays, concerts and movies with her son Daniel and loved to spend as much time as she could with all of her family.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents Robert and Edythe and infant sister, Holly Ann. She is survived by her husband John Taylor, son Daniel Hepworth, two grandchildren Eric and Alex and 8 brothers and sisters Victoria (Jeff) Taylor, Dee (Mark) Carman, Suzanne (Donald) Wetter, Greg (Deborah) Hepworth, Rallet (David) Johnson, Claude (Jane) Hepworth, Jeremy (Lisa) Hepworth and Anna (Ken) Stoker. She was an Aunt to 31 and Great Aunt to 25, all of whom she loved and who loved her. She sadly left behind her beloved furry companions, dog Jack and two cats Salem and Moon.

A memorial service will be held December 5, 2025, at 10:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2715 E. Ocotillo Rd., San Tan Valley, AZ 85140.

The interment and grave dedication will be held at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona 2929 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024 December 5, 2025, at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Animal Shelter of your choice in Diane’s 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.

Robert Jay Anderson died peacefully in his Mesa home surrounded by his family on November 12, 2025. He was 89 years old. Some may know him by his many nicknames, Bob, Jay, Andy, Fuzzy, and Bobby Jay.

Bob, an only child, was born in Mesa, Arizona. He graduated from Mesa High in 1954. He is preceded in death by his high school sweetheart, Marlene with whom he was married 67 years, his mother Nola when he was 18 years old, and his father Wilbur. He is survived by his 6 children Jay (Jennifer), Nola Reader (Brett), Gwen Kartchner (Kelly), Donna Ellsworth (Chris), Ron (Kris), and Bobby (Misty), 32 grandchildren, 59 greatgrandchildren with 1 on the way, and 1 great-great grandchild with another on the way.

Bob worked 45 years as a truck driver mainly with ETMF/ABF and drove over 4 million miles without an accident. He was passionate about sports, and his talents were highlighted in Church softball and basketball. When he wasn’t a player, he enjoyed being a referee which he did for 33 years. The New York Yankees were his all-time favorite team.

Bob lived a life of service to his family and within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He had callings/assignments to serve in the organization of Young Men, Elder’s Quorum, High Priest Quorum, Ward Clerk, Bishopric Counselor, and Bishop. He and Marlene served a full-time mission for The Church in the California Fresno Mission. He was a service missionary unloading trucks at the Bishop’s Storehouse for 16 years, focused on family history for 19 years where he found over 8000 ancestors, and worked on indexing/digitizing the US censuses for over 750,000 names.

A viewing will be held Sunday, 23 November 2025, 6-8pm at Bunker’s Mortuary, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ, and Monday, 24 November 2025, 10-10:45am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 933 East Brown, Mesa, AZ, with funeral services to follow at 11am. Interment at the City of Mesa Cemetery.

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.

Richard “Dick” Lee Harlow, CLU, CSA, CBC, 86, was called home on Friday, November 14, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona.

Born to Frank Ivanhoe Harlow and Mildred Virginia Brown in Washington, DC in 1939. Dick was a Navy Veteran, a business owner, and fiercely devoted to his family. He cultivated his business, served the community, and raised his family in Reston, Virginia before relocating to Arizona in 2024.

Dick loved a good cigar, a fine bourbon, horse racing, and his family. He was generous, hard-working, and inspiring. He had an adventurous spirit and traveled to many exciting places both while in the service of his country and after with his beloved wife.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Virginia Ann Harlow, three children; Gael Jean Harlow, Richard “Butch” Lee Harlow, II (and daughter in-law, Sarah Elizabeth “Beth” Harlow), Melanie Anne de la Rocha (and son in-law, Jeremy Andrew de la Rocha); as well as six grandchildren; Gaelen Neile Conner (and grand-daughter in-law, Ariana Pacheco), Connor Harlow O’Sullivan, Katherine Elizabeth Harlow, Lira Lonette Cash, Kinsey Lee O’Sullivan, and Nimue Marian de la Rocha, as well as his sister, Betsy D’Iorio.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 2pm at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University Drive, Mesa, Arizona.

Richard “Dick” Harlow’s Memorial Service
Wednesday, November 26 · 2:00 – 3:00pm
Time zone: America/Phoenix
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/eiz-heiq-amb

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.

Marjorie Elizabeth Shaw, age 98, of Mesa, Arizona, formerly of Cedar Falls, Iowa, passed away Sunday, November 16, 2025 at Pegasus Landing of Mesa.

Marjorie was born December 22, 1926, in Pleasant Dale, Nebraska, the daughter of Rev. Edgar and Grace (Ogle) Cochell. She graduated from Dubuque Sr High School, before receiving a bachelor’s degree from Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls. Marjorie continued her education with a master’s degree at State College of Iowa.

On June 19, 1948, Marjorie was united in marriage to Harold Shaw in Delhi, Iowa. He preceded her in death on February 9, 2001. Marjorie spent her career as an educator, retiring from the University of Northern Iowa, Department of Education in 1990, having taught curriculum and instruction for 17 years. She also spent four years at Wartburg College Education Department from 1969-1973, and 12 years as the Principal of Main St Elementary School in Cedar Falls.

Marjorie was a member of the First United Methodist Church, past president of CF Business and Professional Women, as well as CF branch of ACE, PTA, and Post Office Aux.

She is survived by two daughters: Susan (Mike) Chesko of Mesa, Arizona and Linda Wendell of Mesa, Arizona along with three grandchildren: Heather (Stephen) Geffrey, Andrew (Kayla) Fulcher, and Aaron Chesko.

Marjorie was preceded in death by her husband, Harold and sister, Velma Woods

Funeral services will be: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Bunker’s University Chapel in Mesa at 7:00 pm with visitation at 6:30 pm.

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.

Samuel Lawrence Condella, “Sammy”, 75, passed on Monday, November 10, 2025 in Queen Creek, Arizona. While Sam enjoyed the past decade living his best retired life in the sunshine of Arizona, he spent much of his early life in Chicago (still always in shorts, even in the dead of winter). Born January 27, 1950, to Salvator and Vera Condella; Sam was a smart, adventurous, and athletic boy who made friends easily, adored his family, and spent many many afternoons at Wrigley Field watching his beloved Cubs. He attended a variety of Catholic schools, including all the Loyola’s in town, where he was a National Merit Scholar and an athlete. At Loyola University, Sam was a member of Pi Alpha Lamba fraternity where he served as president from 1971 to 1972. He earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree there.

He met the love of his life, Carol Condella (nee Jones), outside Chicago as well. They married in July of 1984 and spent every single day of the last 41 years loving each other. (Joke’s on the betting pool that gave them 6 months). They raised two daughters, Laura Condella and Jackie Condella (Joseph Paylo), for which he was a steady foundation that they could always come home to. He was amazed and delighted by his two grandchildren, Caden and Chloe Paylo.

Sam was an only child, but he had so many brothers. In fraternities, at companies, and in new homes, Sam made his friends into his family. His easy-going nature and ‘live and let live’ approach to life made him fun to be around and impossible not to love. His brothers (and sisters) bridged geographic, political, and generational divides, and they all made his life fuller.

Sam spent his career making things you use every day – soap, candy, meals, power tools – and later supporting the diverse groups of people who made those things. But his work wasn’t his life’s work. Sam lived for the everyday joys that he filled his world with: a hot cup of coffee, a cold beer with his brothers, a meal with his wife. A drive with the top down on his BMW, a big cigar, and the radio volume turned to 11. The soccer tournaments, the gymnastics meets, and later, the late-night bottles of wine and deep conversations by the fire with his daughters. A quiet fishing trip on an off-the-grid lake, the whitewater spray of the Snake river from the bow of a raft, and the laughs after he got tossed in. The quiet drumbeat of waves on the beach in Hawaii, the bass thrum off a really good pair of speakers, and the crackle of logs in the fireplace. A Tuesday evening in the right field bleachers, a Sunday afternoon cursing out Joe Buck (and often the Bears themselves), and a Saturday morning on the 18^th green.

Sam will be missed by so many, in so many small moments, and in so many big ways.

If anyone would like to pay forward the big or small moments of joy that Sam brought into their lives, the family asks you please send:

• Monetary donations to the American Cancer Society or House of Refuge in Mesa, AZ
• Memories, stories, and photos to Carol, Laura, and Jackie via your favorite social media, email platform or carrier pigeon (JK please don’t send birds)
• Positive vibes for a few more Bears wins to round out a year of playoff seasons for all his Chicago teams

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.

Grace Urie Fish entered the world on a quiet, snowy night in Maybole, Scotland, on February 4, 1940. The seventh of eight children, born to two wonderful parents John Urie and Mary McIntyre Davidson Urie. She grew up surrounded by the magic of the Scottish countryside. She had an enchanting childhood and spent berry picking, wandering through wooded paths, and taking highland dancing lessons. She was extremely close with her siblings growing up, most of her childhood was spent with her brothers, Willie and Alan, and her sisters, Joyce and Jessie.

At fifteen, Grace began working at Marks & Spencer to help support her family, demonstrating the responsibility and dedication that would define her life. After two and a half years, she moved on to working at Prestwick Airforce Base, where she worked in the Headquarters office for the Base Commander as one of his secretaries.

It was there, in July of 1959, Grace met a young American officer who would forever change her life — First Lt. Colonel Boyce J. Fish. Boyce was immediately captivated by her warmth, beauty, and charm. Their romance bloomed quickly, and by December he formally asked for her hand in marriage. Grace happily accepted.

On her twentieth birthday, Grace married Boyce in a small church in Scotland. Their honeymoon was an unforgettable European adventure—beginning in London, and then crossing by ferry into Calais, France and continuing through Paris, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and finally Italy. At the end of their honeymoon, they journeyed to Adana, Turkey, where Boyce was stationed for several years and where they began their life together. During their time in Turkey, Grace was baptized and became a devoted member of the LDS Church.

When Boyce was reassigned back to the states, the couple moved to Charleston, South Carolina, before eventually settling in his hometown of Mesa, Arizona—a place that would become the center of their family’s story.

In Mesa, Boyce and Grace built not just their house, but the heartbeat of their growing family—a warm haven that welcomed not only their four children, Linden, Stephanie, Fiona, and Christian, but also with countless friends and loved ones. Grace filled her home with patience, kindness and laughter. Later in life, their long-held dream of having six children came true when they lovingly took guardianship of their granddaughters, Chelsea and Hayley Stewart.

Grace was a devoted member of the LDS Church, living a life grounded in service, compassion, and unwavering faith. She believed in the importance of family and naturally stepped into the role of a strong matriarch. Her greatest joys came from raising her children and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her strong belief in the importance of family became the hallmark of her life. Throughout her life, she traveled back to Scotland several times, and kept her family connected, even from across an ocean. This dedication to family only further proved her devotion to everyone she loved.

Grace is survived by her children: Linden Fish, Stephanie Fish Ashcroft and Christian Fish. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Brock Mathews, Brynn Fish, Macy Fish Russell, Remy Fish, Jeremy Ashcroft, Heather Ashcroft, Natalie Ashcroft Eady, Chelsea Stewart, Hayley Stewart, Lyndsey Sanford-Routh, and Tanner Fish, along with eleven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Boyce J Fish (1932-2021), her daughter Fiona Fish Stewart (1972-2005) and her grandson Kyle Mathews (1988–2005).

Her family will celebrate her life on November 22nd at 10 a.m. at the LDS Church Building located at 848 N Westwood, Mesa, AZ 85201. Her burial will be held November 23rd at 12 p.m. at the Lakeside Cemetery located at 1265 Larson Rd, Lakeside, AZ 85929.

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.

Nan Marie Mattice Crockett passed away peacefully with her family at her side on November 9, 2025, in her home in Mesa, Arizona, following a short illness. She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Her countless contributions to family, church and friends cannot be measured and will never be forgotten.

Nan was born February 11, 1937, at the family home in Pima, Arizona, a small farming community in the Gila Valley. She was the third of five children born to Iris Webb Mattice and George Alt Mattice. While attending Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, Nan met her sweetheart, Clyll Webb Crockett of Preston, Idaho, and the two were married for time and eternity in the Mesa, Arizona Temple on June 27, 1958. Nan and Webb were married for nearly 67 joyful years and they welcomed a son and three daughters: Jeff (married to Pam Lyon), Nicole (married to Mike Barney), Karen (married to Matt Renda), and Cynthia (married to Trent Pedersen). They have fifteen grandchildren whom they treasured: Kayla Crockett, Nathan Crockett, Megan Crockett, Rachel Crockett, Brett Barney, Claire Barney, Josh Barney (married to Ashlynn Phillips), Monica Chabot (married to Eli Chabot), Ileah Renda, Lloyd Renda, Emma Renda, Isaac Renda, Brandon Pedersen, Brock Pedersen, and Savannah Pedersen. Their first great grandchild, Ambrose Chabot, was born earlier this year.

At an early age, Nan excelled as a musician, playing both trumpet and piano. She performed in public often and at the age of 17, was part of an orchestra and choir from Arizona that completed a 4,500-mile concert tour in Mexico, culminating with performances in Mexico City. Following graduation from Pima High School, Nan attended Arizona State College in Tempe where she continued to pursue her love of music. She was a frequent concert soloist on her trumpet and member of the nationally acclaimed Sun Devil Marching Band. She also helped mentor other young musicians as one of the officers in the Arizona High School Music Camp program.

Following her freshman year at Arizona State, Nan transferred to Brigham Young University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in business education. While at BYU, she continued to pursue her love of music and joined an all-female orchestra called the Rhythmaids which performed in dance halls as far away as Canada. In addition, Nan was active in the R.O.T.C. Sponsors Corps of America, an organization which supported Air Force cadets and raised funding for BYU’s R.O.T.C. program through military balls and parades. Membership in the Sponsor Corps was reserved for the brightest and most outstanding young women. In 1958, Nan was selected to be part of the royal court at the “Destination Enchantment” Military Ball.

In addition to her musical talent, Nan excelled as a student. She completed her student teaching at Box Elder High School in Brigham City, Utah, and earned her degree in business education. Nan would use her degree throughout her life as a mother and as a teacher in junior high and high school.

Nan met Webb in a chance encounter at BYU on the next-to-the-last- day of her junior year. The two corresponded over the summer break and then began dating their senior year while Webb was serving as student body president of BYU. They married the following summer in the Mesa Arizona Temple and immediately packed up the car and moved cross-country to Chicago where Nan taught high school to support the newlyweds while Webb attended business school at Northwestern University. A year later, they would return to Arizona where Webb attended law school at the University of Arizona in Tucson while Nan worked at Hughes Aircraft. Following law school, Webb accepted a job with the law firm Fennemore in Phoenix and after a few years living in Scottsdale, Nan and Webb built a home in Mesa to raise their family.

Nan had many interests including reading, cooking, politics, and sports. She loved watching BYU and ASU football, the Phoenix Suns and the Arizona Diamondbacks. She served for more than 20 years as a Republican Precinct Committeeman in Mesa. And, she was absolutely magic in the kitchen where she prepared some of the most amazing food anyone has ever eaten. Examples include her tortilla casserole, Thanksgiving stuffing and orange rolls, fried chicken and rice, and sugar cookies, to name just a few.

Nan was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Throughout her life she served happily in many different capacities including visiting teacher and minister, Primary teacher, Young Women’s Advisor, and in the Relief Society. Perhaps her favorite callings were serving with Webb as he served as bishop in the Mesa 70th young single adult ward and then later on the High Council in the Arizona State University student stake. Nan provided love, wisdom, and a constant example of Christlike discipleship to hundreds of young single adults at a time in their lives when they were making important life decisions. Always welcoming, she and Webb would frequently host gatherings for the youth in their home in Mesa.

Of all of her many talents, her greatest honor and success was as a wife, mother, and grandmother. She created a home that was a heaven on earth for her adoring husband, children, and grandchildren. There was no other place they would rather be. Through her example she taught essential life lessons of work, education, service, love for family, developing talents, faith in God, and of course humor. She did it all tirelessly, with beauty, class, and elegance. She was at the side of her husband and children through every important moment in their lives.

Nan lived a long and remarkable life dedicated to God, family, and community. She blessed the lives of all those who crossed her path, and her example, wisdom and love were treasured by all. We love and honor her as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

Nan was preceded in death by her parents, George and Iris, and siblings Claire (“Mitzi”), Marcia, John, and granddaughter Claire Crockett Barney. She is survived by her brother Ric and his wife Valerie and sister-in-law Karen Kempton Mattice Griffin.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 10 AM (with visitation starting at 9 AM) at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meeting house located at 1911 N. 24th Street, Mesa, Arizona 85213.

Additional visitation will be Friday, November 21, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meeting house located at 1911 N. 24th Street, Mesa, Arizona 85213.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Child Crisis Arizona:

424 W. Rio Salado Parkway

Mesa, Arizona 85201

(480) 834-9424

https://www.childcrisisaz.org

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.

Dwayne Earl Larsen, age 94, passed away peacefully at his home in Mesa, Arizona on Thursday, November 6, 2025. He was born to Elwood and Lorna Miller Larsen on November 18, 1930. After graduating from Mesa High School in 1948, he served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Denmark, the home of many of his ancestors.

After returning home, he met and married Barbara Jo Bassett in the Mesa Temple on May 29, 1954 and they celebrated 60 years together, welcoming six children into their lives. He served for five years in the United States Air Force as a pilot, achieving the rank of 1st Lieutenant.

After receiving a Bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University, he taught mathematics at Westwood High School, East Phoenix High School, and Mountain View High School, before retiring in 1992. He and Barbara then served a temple mission in Sweden and assisted his brother in the Venezuela Caracas mission.

Dwayne was known to have an inquisitive mind and a great love of learning, especially studying languages throughout his life. He loved spending time in his shop, whether working on his own projects or lending a hand with someone else’s. He was a valiant and faithful servant in his church callings, and his testimony of the Savior and love for Family History were a light to all he knew.

He was preceded in death by his sweet wife Barbara, son David, his parents Elwood and Lorna, his brother Dean (Leona) and his sisters Dolores Slade (Wayne) and DeAnn. He is survived by his sons Dwight (Cindy), Don, his daughters Dorothy, DeNae Griffin (Paul) and Debra Parker (Nicolas), as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The celebration of his life will be held November 18, 2025 at 11:00 AM, preceded by a visitation at 10:00 AM at the Mesa 60th Ward building, 2152 E. Adobe St., Mesa, AZ. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice of the Valley are suggested.

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.

Yvonne Kay Bird, 85 of Gilbert, AZ. died Sunday November 1, 2025.

She was born on in England and always went by Kay. Kay was the wife of the late Jeffrey Bird. She was the mother of the late Kimberley Stitsel, Donna Doroudian of Gilbert, AZ, Tracy Yarid of Methuen, MA, and Daniel Bird of Dover, NH and stepmother of Alan Bird, Stephen Bird, Andrew Bird, and Phillip Bird of England.

Prior to moving to Arizona she had lived in Salem NH for 33 years and England. Kay worked hard all her life but always looked at life with rose colored glasses. If you told her it’s raining she would say but look all the flowers are growing. When anything went wrong, she would say “Oh no! Oh dear!” in a posh English accent and make the children laugh. She loved the ocean and loved laying out in the sun.

In addition to her children, Kay is also survived by her brother Robert Burton and sister Josephine Broadhurst who reside in England; as well as her granddaughter Kira Yarid, grandsons Michael Doroudian, Louis Yarid, Christopher McAlevey, Reza Doroudian, Gavin Bird, great granddaughters Sophie Doroudian, Murphy Trujillo, and grandson Morgan Trujillo. She loved them all very much.

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.