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John B. Storment, a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather passed away on January 6, 2026, at the age of 84.

John was born on November 5, 1941, in Tucson, Arizona.  He spent all of his growing up years in Cochise County, Arizona, spending time in both Tombstone and St. David.  After high school he attended Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher and The University of Arizona in Tucson before serving a two-year full-time mission in Ireland for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  Upon his return, he completed his bachelor’s degree in secondary education at Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth, Texas, and ultimately a master’s degree at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff.

John was a devoted educator who thrived on helping young people learn and succeed.  He started his career in Williams, Arizona, but spent most of his professional life with Mesa Public Schools in Mesa, Arizona.  He was a high school teacher, coach, and administrator for over 30 years.

John was committed to his faith, serving in many capacities for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  The highlights of his church service were his various full-time and part-time missions.  He first served in Ireland in his twenties, but also in more recent years with his wife Martha in Boston, Massachusetts, the Tempe Arizona Institute of Religion, and LDS Social Services in Mesa.  His faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ has been his most enduring example to his children and grandchildren.

John is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Martha, their three children, Matthew Storment, Melissa McCook, Allison Bates, their spouses, and ten grandchildren.  John is also survived by his sister, Sharon Davis of St. David, Arizona.

Services will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 925 N. Harris Dr., Mesa, Arizona 85203.  Viewing/Visitation at 9:00AM.  Memorial Service at 10:00AM.

If you are unable to attend the service, please click on the following link to livestream the service: https://youtube.com/live/28v8ebl8550?feature=share

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.

James Dale Sargent, was born to the late William E. & Joyce Sargent on July 25, 1958 in Superior, AZ. He was the first baby of two children. Very early on Monday, January 5, 2026 at 4:15 am James received a summons from Yeshua to return home.

James was educated in the public schools of Mesa, where he graduated from Mesa High School. He later completed his Bachelor’s degree at ASU in computers. However his passion was always the word of God. He frequently participated in missions trips to Mexico to preach wherever God led him. On one of those trips he met a young lady named Felipa Rivera who he married and helped raise their four children. They moved to Higley, AZ while working at St Joseph’s Hospital as a Technician. In 2008, he founded Golden Censer Ministries through which he was able to influence and support other ministers from all over the world. In 2019, he wrote the book, “Incense and the Glory”. He also found enjoyment in making decorative swords, popping popcorn for his grandchildren, and was the best lasagna maker around.

Brother James, as he was known to so many, taught various bibles studies in churches and synagogues all throughout the Valley. However, he also gathered at homes, parks and reservations, always asking Yeshua to satisfy the hunger in the souls of the men and women of Arizona. Brother James loved visiting the sick and praying for them. He also helped the needy, and those less fortunate. His life’s mission was to win souls for Christ and to share God’s love. He could strike up a conversation with strangers and make them feel like he had known them for years.

Brother James endured hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. When his health began to fail, he never let that stop him from doing the work God called him to do. Even these last few weeks, he was making full proof of his ministry. He was an example of Christ in word and in deed. He truly fought a good fight and has gone to get his reward.

He left to join his daughter Ruth in heaven but left behind his wife, and his three children; Issac, Nuvia, and Esther; his beloved grandchildren; Lucas, Abigail, Camila, Elias, Rebecca, Julian, Azul; and his bonus grandchildren; Javier and Jared.

This servant of the Most High God will be missed.

The Family

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.

Carol Webster, age 87, passed away peacefully at Lund Home Hospice on November 22, 2025.

She is survived by her loving husband of over 60 years, Miron – affectionately known as “Spike” – and by her daughter, Diane Engel, her only child, who lives in the San Francisco Bay area with her husband Mike and their children: Joshua, age 28 and Amanda, age 23.

Carol and her younger sister, Jean Baumgardner – who recently passed away – grew up in Pocahontas, Iowa. Carol had fond memories of life on the family farm, where homemade goods and bountiful gardens were carefully canned and preserved for the winter months. As the older sister, she shared a special bond with her father spending time hunting, fishing, hiking and learning to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors – a love that stayed with her throughout her life.

The family later moved to Flagstaff and Phoenix and Carol remained an Arizona resident for the rest of her life.

Carol attended Northern Arizona University as a geology major and later Arizona State Teachers College – now Arizona State University – where she earned a degree in secondary education with a minor in English. It was there, in an art class, that she met the love of her life, Miron. They were married just six weeks later and went on to share a lifetime together filled with love, creativity and adventure.

Together they developed a deep appreciation for visual art and the natural beauty of Idaho and Arizona. One of Carol’s greatest adventures was spending three summers with Spike in the Clearwater National Forest in Idaho, living in a remote fire lookout while Spike worked on his master’s degree at USC. It was a time of simplicity, beauty and connection – something Carol always treasured.

They later returned to Flagstaff where they raised their family. Spike served as a professor of ceramics at Northern Arizona University for over 20 years and Carol enjoyed taking elective courses, being active in the Faculty Wives group, joining hiking clubs and participating in the First Methodist Church, where she helped with Sunday School and Bible study. She built a wide circle of friends and neighbors and enjoyed a rich and active social life during their 18 years in the small-town community.

Carol also worked for nine years as a proofreader at the Arizona Daily Sun, where she became well respected for her careful attention to detail and positive relationships with reporters and editors.

In 1984, Carol and Spike built their dream home in Mesa, Arizona. Spike and his brother Gene worked every day for a year constructing a home that reflected creativity, craftsmanship and love – placing their personal stamp in every corner.

Carol later returned to ASU to recertify as an elementary education teacher and spent several years working as a long-term substitute in the Mesa school district.

Carol and Spike were active members of the First Presbyterian Church of Mesa, where they served as communion deacons for three years. Carol loved the life of the church – especially women’s fellowship, Bible study and the beauty of organ music and choir, which deeply touched her spirit.

Above all else, Carol valued people. Neighbors, friends and family were always at the center of her life. She had a natural gift for forming lasting friendships and staying connected – whether through visits, phone calls or letters – and she cared deeply about her community and the people in it.

Over the past 18 years, Carol spent many joyful visits traveling to the San Francisco Bay Area, as well as Long Beach and Orange County, to spend time with Diane and her family – moments that brought her great happiness.

Carol will be forever remembered for her outgoing personality, warm and friendly nature, wonderful sense of humor and genuine care for others.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered and never forgotten.

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.

Shirley Irons  passed away on 01/08/2026 in 07/20/1953, Arizona. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel (480.964.8686).

Dr. William Helfert, a devoted dentist and respected member of his community, passed away on November 23, 2025, at the age of 84.

Dr. Helfert dedicated more than 50 years to the practice of dentistry, serving his patients with exceptional skill, compassion, and unwavering integrity. His work was far more than a profession—it was a calling. He took great pride in improving not only the health but also the confidence of those he cared for, and his commitment left a lasting impact on generations of patients. His long-standing practice stood as a testament to his dedication and love for his work.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Brenda Helfert. He is survived by his wife, Pam Helfert. He is also lovingly remembered by his family members, Betty and Chuck Mulcahy, Michelle and Fred Simanek, Lance and Beth Helfert, Chad and Patrice Janosik, and Cassie and Ryan Kutzbach. He was a proud grandfather to Jeanette, Emily, Will, Jack, Maxwell, Maverick, Karsen, Danica, Cameron, Chadwick, and Chandler, all of whom brought him great joy.

Dr. Helfert will be remembered for his professionalism, kindness, and the meaningful difference he made in the lives of his patients, colleagues, and community. His legacy of care and compassion will endure.

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.

Marlin Willard Jones (“Willie”) was born on November 14, 1955, in Mesa, Arizona, and passed away on December 20, 2025, in Gilbert, Arizona, surrounded by family and love.

Willie was a hard worker who spent his life in the masonry field, taking great pride in his craft and the work of his hands. His strong work ethic, dependability, and commitment were evident in everything he did. He believed in honest work and doing the job right.

Devoted to his family, Willie shared 40 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Kimberly Jones. Together, they built a life rooted in love, perseverance, and dedication. Above all else, Willie valued those closest to him and was known for his quiet strength, deep loyalty, and genuine kindness.

Willie especially loved and cherished his grandchildren. His greatest joy was holding his grandbabies and playing with the toddlers, finding delight in their laughter and watching them grow. He appreciated life’s simple moments and meaningful conversations, living with integrity and humility.

Willie is survived by his five children and their spouses: Tyler, Brittani, Ryan, Tadd, and Alexa, along with his beloved grandchildren, all of whom will forever carry forward his memory and legacy. He was preceded in death by loved ones who welcomed him home.

A celebration of Willie’s life will be held with his immediate family.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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.

passed away January 5, 2026 at age 91, in Gilbert, Arizona. Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel.

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. 

Dr. Carl J. “CJ” Metz, age 45, passed away unexpectedly on January 1, 2026.

CJ was born March 26, 1980, in North Platte, Nebraska, to Margaret and David Metz. He attended St. Patrick’s High School, where his early curiosity, determination, and drive were already evident. He went on to pursue his lifelong passion for dentistry and was accepted into the Nebraska Rural Health Opportunities Program (RHOP), earning one of only two pre-dental scholarships awarded that year. CJ received his Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from Chadron State College and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry in 2005.

CJ moved to Phoenix, Arizona, in 2005, where he began his dental career and later founded Vibrant Dentistry in 2010. His practice was built on exceptional care, innovation, and meaningful patient relationships. CJ was consistently recognized by his peers as a top general and cosmetic dentist in the Phoenix metro area. He was a Kois Center graduate and, most recently, a member of the 2025 American Academy of Clear Aligners Fellowship Class and a Key Opinion Leader board member.

Outside of dentistry, CJ loved the outdoors, travel, music, art, Husker football, and most of all, his family and friends. Though he lived across the country, his close connection to family never wavered.

CJ will be remembered for his bear hugs, quick wit, compassion, brilliance, and his gift for making people feel included and cared for. His perfectionism, often taken just a bit too far, was part of what made him who he was and something those closest to him smiled about often. Above all, he wanted people to be happy, and if they weren’t, he made it his mission to change that.

CJ is survived by his father, David Metz; his sisters, Katherine Rector (Joshua) and Mary Grace Metz (Robert Miller); and his niece, Lillian Rector. He was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret Metz, and his niece, Abigail Rector.

Because CJ touched so many lives, services will be held in both Arizona and Lincoln, Nebraska.

A Memorial Mass will be held in Arizona on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., with a reception to follow at
Corpus Christi Catholic Church
3550 E Knox Rd
Phoenix, AZ

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at North American Martyrs Catholic Church,
1101 Isaac Dr, Lincoln, NE, on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., with a reception to follow.
For those unable to attend in person, the Lincoln Funeral Mass will be available via live stream through the North American Martyrs website.

Burial services will follow at approximately 2:00 p.m. at
Calvary Cemetery & Mausoleum
3880 L St, Lincoln, NE

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in CJ’s memory to support causes that reflected his heart for service and his passion for dentistry. Donations can be made either directly in his name or entrusted to the family to honor his passions.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Dental Clinic provides essential dental care to individuals and families in need. CJ generously volunteered his time and skills there to help patients who otherwise might not have access to care, and this clinic embodies his belief that oral health should be accessible to all. https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/?form=donate

Donations may also be made to the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry Dental Student Mission Projects Dedicated Fund, which supports dental mission work and outreach. CJ participated in dental mission care, including a service trip to Guatemala, and he always hoped to continue expanding his involvement in mission-based dentistry. Supporting this fund honors his lifelong commitment to service, global outreach, and providing compassionate dental care to underserved communities.
https://secure.nufoundation.org/give?fundid=01174120&sitename=UNMC%20DEN%20Multiple%20Departments&wprefer=https://nufoundation.org/?s=dental+fund

For those who prefer to send donations to the family, they may be mailed to:
Mary Metz
130 East Cherrywood Drive
Lincoln, NE 68510

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.

James “Boyd” Clayton, son of Una Lee Phelps and Steve Clayton, was called home on Sunday, January 4, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer at age 72.

Left to carry on his traditions and cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Melanie, and his five children: Bryon (Larissa), Tiffanie, Matthew (Lindsey), Monica (Luke), and Aleisha. His legacy lives on through his nine treasured grandchildren: Kylie, Cory, Colby, Carson, Brexlin, Mattie, Logan, Kinsey, and Cannon.

After retiring from the convenience store industry, Boyd devoted his time to the things he loved most-gardening, cowboying, making chocolates, and spending time with his family.

Boyd was known for his dry sense of humor, strong work ethic, and an incredibly generous heart. He will be missed.

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.

Robert ‘Bob’ Owen Alexander, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on December 14, 2025, at the age of 80. A resident of Mesa, Arizona, Bob leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and humor.

Born in New York City, New York, Bob dedicated much of his life to service, beginning with the U.S. Navy where he served as a Petty Officer Second Class. His strong work ethic carried him through a diverse career with the United States Postal Service and Los Alamos National Laboratories, before eventually retiring as a Safety Engineer from Sandia National Laboratories.

While he was proud of his professional accomplishments, Bob’s true joy was found in his faith and his family. He was a man who loved the Lord, finding peace in reading his Bible and fellowship in his Bible study groups. He was equally devoted to his wife of 54 years, Elisabeth.

To his neighbors in Mesa, Bob was a familiar and friendly face. He loved walking through the neighborhood, often recognized by friends and passersby who would wave as they drove past. To his family and friends, he will be fondly remembered for his collection of “dad jokes,” which never failed to bring a smile (or a groan) to the room.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Elisabeth Monch Alexander; his daughter, Annie Owen Bryant, and her husband, William Parker Bryant; and his son, Christian Charles Alexander, and his wife, Tina Renee Alexander. He was the proud grandfather to Sean Anthony Alexander, Alyssa Nicole Alexander, Elison Ann Bryant, and Owen Parker Bryant. He joins his brother, John Alexander, who preceded him in death.

“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8

Service Information A military funeral service will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 2:30 PM at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, located at 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024.

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.

Marcie Irene Allen, age 70, passed away peacefully, returning to her Heavenly Father after a life marked by faith, love, humor, and devoted service.

Marcie was born on August 17, 1955, in McNary, Arizona, at the small local hospital there. From the beginning, her life was one of compassion and care for others. She was known for her generous heart, kindness, forgiving nature, and especially her sense of humor, which brought joy and laughter to everyone around her.

Marcie was a devoted mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was the center of her life, and she found great joy in caring for them and creating lasting memories together. She lived her life as an example of Christlike love, patience, and quiet strength.

As a Registered Nurse, Marcie dedicated her professional life to caring for others with skill, empathy, and compassion. Her love of nursing also became a meaningful way to serve the Lord. She served a service mission as a nurse caring for missionaries, offering both medical care and heartfelt support. In addition, she faithfully served three missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vanuatu, England London (South Mission), and Cape Verde (West Africa Mission). These experiences were deeply meaningful to her and reflected her strong testimony and lifelong commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Marcie is survived by her children: Nathan and Brooke, Brandon and Brigette, Randy and Nicole, and Rebecca and Brandon; 14 beloved grandchildren; and 2 cherished great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Sister Nancy, Sister Susan, Brother Dennis, and Sister Carol.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Renee Williams; her beloved husband, Glenn Allen; and her brother, Charles.

Marcie was deeply loved by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends but is comforted in the knowledge of the gospel and the promise of eternal life.

Funeral Services:
Friday, January 9, 2026
Viewing at 9:00 a.m.
Service to follow at 10:00 a.m.
2647 S. Signal Butte Road 
Mesa, AZ 85209

Graveside Service:
Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
City of Mesa Cemetery
1212 North Center Street 
Mesa, AZ 85201

Flowers:
Flowers may be sent to
University Chapel
3529 E. University Drive 
Mesa, AZ 85213

Netella Kathleen Montague, affectionately known as “Tella,” 76, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, December 4, 2025, following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.

Netella was born on May 16, 1949, in Provo, Utah, to Quinten Blair Montague and Lova Mae Abbott. The oldest of nine children, she spent much of her childhood in Boise, Idaho, where she developed a lifelong love for country living. Tella was known for her creative spirit, often turning mundane farm chores into games for her younger siblings.

A gifted musician, Tella participated in choir and played the clarinet in the Borah High School marching band. After her family moved to Vancouver, B.C., in 1966, she graduated from North Vancouver Secondary School. She later returned to Idaho to attend Ricks College in Rexburg, where she established many cherished, lifelong friendships.

Tella’s professional life was defined by her organizational and leadership skills. She spent several years in Utah and California working in various managerial and accounting roles. She was a natural leader who took pride in her work, but her greatest professional joy was always found in the people she worked alongside.

Family was the cornerstone of Tella’s life. She was the architect of joy at family reunions, particularly at Kennally Creek in Idaho. Her organizational talents shone through the elaborate scavenger hunts, card tournaments, and campfire singalongs she orchestrated for her aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Tella’s faith was her guiding light. She served in numerous capacities within the Relief Society, Primary, and Young Women’s organizations. She was a  Member of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers and was instrumental in the restoration of the Spanish Fork Pioneer Cemetery. Her most profound impact was felt through music; she directed many ward and stake choirs and taught seminary, sharing her testimony through teaching and song. Even as her health declined, Tella’s hands would instinctively move to conduct whenever choral music was played.

Netella was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Pamela Katherine Montague; and her sister-in-law, Deborah Robinson Montague.
She is survived by her seven siblings: Quinn (Terry) Montague of Rupert, ID; Kevin (Kathryn) Montague of Citrus Heights, CA; Jenny (Kevin) Baadsgaard of Spanish Fork, UT; Dain Montague of Lehi, UT; Rebecca (Bert) Wharton of Boulder City, NV; Polly (Daniel) Bodell of Vancouver, WA; and Ginger Montague of Mesa, AZ. She also leaves behind a large legacy of beloved nieces and nephews.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Noble Hospice for their unwavering support and tender care, as well as the many friends and church members whose cards, calls, and visits brightened Tella’s final years.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Spanish Fork, Utah, later in the spring. Date and time yet to be determined.

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.

Shirley LaRue Reynolds Kartchner, of Mesa, AZ, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2025, at the age of 90 years old. She was born on Friday, September 13, 1935, in Springerville, AZ, to Emmett and Minnie Reynolds. Shirley led a full life, enriched by her unwavering dedication to family, friends, and deeply held religious convictions. Above all, she committed herself to cultivating a warm, nurturing home for her family.

Shirley graduated from Round Valley High School in 1953, as her further academic pursuits included Brigham Young University and Arizona State University, culminating in her graduation in Spring 1957.  She married Rey Burton Kartchner on July 19, 1958, in the Mesa Arizona LDS Temple. Together they have 4 Children (Randy, Kim, ShiRey, and RaShel).

Shirley was the cornerstone of her family in a home filled with laughter and unconditional love. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend, as she dedicated her life to caring for her family and was a pillar of strength to all who knew her. By extension, that same mindset was demonstrated through the years as an elementary school teacher, inspiring countless young minds with her patience and warmth. She was also a visionary in relation to writing and directing a community or a religious play/production, celebrated with multiple awards for capturing the humor in everyday situations with creativity and heart.

Shirley touched countless lives with her generosity, always ready with a listening ear or a comforting embrace. Throughout our childhood and beyond, our mother was a woman of strong faith who provided help with homework, a shoulder to cry on, and instilled the importance of family, hard work, and doing what is right. She always looked forward to visits from her grandchildren, which also included family gatherings at the family property in Nutrioso, AZ, as her central theme centered around concentrating firmly on the Savior Jesus Christ and His teachings. Even as her ability to speak faded, she consistently expressed her deep appreciation for having lived a long life, blessed with wonderful experiences, a loving family, good friends, and compassionate caregivers.

Her legacy is one of boundless generosity, kindness, and infectious humor that left an indelible mark on all that knew her.  Her absence is profoundly felt, yet we draw strength from the knowledge she’s joined our father and beloved family members, finding solace in their enduring presence.

Shirley is survived by her children Randel Emmett Kartchner, with (wife) Jeannette Kartchner, Kim Burton Kartchner, with (wife) Tracey Kartchner, ShiRey Kartchner Carroll, with (husband) Douglas Carroll and RaShel Kartchner Ferrin with (husband) Robert Ferrin, including 17 grandchildren, and 19 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 24^th at 10:30 am: LDS Chapel located at 422 E. University Dr., Mesa, AZ 85203. Viewing will be held from 9:30-10:15 am before the service.

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.

Grant Reilly Ward passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, in Gilbert, Arizona, at the age of 83.

Born on August 18, 1942, in Twin Falls, Idaho, he was the son of Ross and Catherine Ward. Grant was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Georgeanna Johnson, Patricia Joe Jones, and Cathy Ward. Grant loved his childhood –  the heritage of love, faith, hard work, family fun, and service that he learned from his parents and family and tried to instill these same values with his own children and grandchildren.

Grant was raised on a farm in Twin Falls, where his early years were spent driving tractors, plowing fields, and caring for animals. He loved the farm, and though his career and family took him elsewhere, Idaho was always “home.” He attended a one-room schoolhouse, Union Elementary School, and graduated from Twin Falls High School with the class of 1960. It was here that he met his dear wife, Judy. His senior year, he was selected to represent Twin Falls at Boys’ State in Boise. He pursued higher education with dedication and purpose, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Brigham Young University in 1967. He continued his studies at the University of Idaho College of Law from 1967 to 1969.

In both his personal and professional life, Grant exemplified commitment and integrity. He shared a wonderful 60-year marriage with his beloved wife, Judy Nelson Ward. Together they built a large and loving family that became the center of their lives. Grant is remembered with deep affection by his children: Monte (Jenni), Michelle Menden (Marc), Jeff (Gretchen), Greg (Angie), Markley (Angie), Marshall (Lynndsey), and Jennifer Badgett (Mike). His legacy continues through his 36 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Few things brought him more joy than cheering his children on in their various sports and activities. Whether it was basketball games, football games, baseball games, volleyball matches, track meets, or choir concerts, he spent his evenings and weekends first cheering on his own children, and then his grandchildren. He also coached all of his children’s teams, including Little League, basketball, and softball, being a great mentor and leader. His many grandchildren always knew that their “Grandad” loved and supported them and they will miss him greatly.

Grant’s life was deeply devoted to service, both to his faith and to his community. A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served faithfully in many callings, including as Bishop of the Mesa 42nd Ward. He also enjoyed serving in the High Council, Young Men’s organization, Primary, and in Scouting. He served a full-time mission for the Church from 1960–1963 in the West Spanish American Mission, serving in Mexico, Arizona, and California, and became fluent in Spanish. From 2014–2023, he served another mission focused on water rights for Church-owned properties where he was able to utilize his great knowledge and skills earned in his career. He also served faithfully in the temple for five years. His service was quiet, steady, and rooted in love for Jesus Christ and others.

A man of intellect and quiet strength, Grant’s life was marked by devotion to his faith, family and a steadfast pursuit of knowledge. Professionally, Grant devoted his career to agriculture, water, electricity, and public service. After he and Judy moved to Arizona, he was the Assistant Branch Manager at Valley Bank in Mesa. He then went on to serve as General Manager of the Roosevelt Water Conservation District; Executive Vice President of the Agribusiness Council of Arizona; Assistant General Manager of the Central Arizona Water Conservation District; and General Manager of Maricopa-Stanfield Irrigation & Drainage District/ Electrical District No. 3. In later years, he worked as a utilities consultant, primarily for ED-3 and MSIDD, representing their interests with state and federal agencies and legislative bodies.

Grant’s leadership extended throughout his community. He served on the Board of Trustees for the Arizona 4-H Foundation, the Advisory Committee for the City of Mesa Municipal Bonds, and Boards of Directors for Grand Canyon State Bank and Valley Lutheran Hospital. He was President of the Mesa East Rotary Club, the Gilbert Rotary Club, and the Colorado River Energy Distributors Association (CREDA), and served on the Governor’s Committee for the establishment of the Arizona Department of Agriculture. His contributions were widely recognized. He received the Lifetime Achievement Distinguished Service Award from the National Water Resources Association in 2017, the Water Warrior Award from the Family Farm Alliance in 2018, and a Special Recognition Award from the Agribusiness and Water Council of Arizona in 2016 for his work on Colorado River shortages and their impact on irrigated agriculture. A farmer at heart, Grant had a love of the land and became a great steward of the land.

Grant’s great faith, example of service, and love of family will carry on for many generations to come and he will be dearly missed.  May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

A visitation will be held on January 10, 2026, from 9:30–10:30 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3580 East Houston Avenue in Gilbert, followed by a family visitation and prayer from 10:30–11:00 a.m. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. at Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 East Queen Creek Road.

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.

Our beautiful mother, Sandra Norene Wilcox, aged 56, passed away suddenly from heart complications on December 28, 2025.

She is survived by eight children (Suzanne, Aleksandr, Daniel, Lyndee, David, Jared, Kevin, Julia), her pride and joy. She was our devoted protector, teacher, and friend, whose life was full of faith and purpose.

Born into a large military family, Sandra had a fondness for travel. From living in Japan as a child to studying abroad in Mexico, from road-tripping across the U.S. to serving a mission in Brazil, and from running marathons in Utah to adopting children in Siberia, she packed her life full of stories and experiences, and an appreciation for cultures, languages, and peoples.

As a full-time stay-at-home mother, she filled our home with music, art, learning, and laughter. Along with supporting our talents and dreams, she also made sure to take time to develop her own, and became a skilled gardener, gifted house designer, and award-winning author.

Sandra had a profound love for Jesus Christ and His gospel, and for the people she served in her church callings. She trusted her Father in Heaven deeply. Even amidst debilitating hardships, He always blessed her with guidance and happiness. We are so grateful to God that we will get to see our mama again.

A celebration of her life will be held at the Olive Ward building, 525 E 2nd Ave, Mesa, AZ 85204, on Saturday, January 10, at 9:30 a.m. (MST) and visitation will be at 8:30 a.m. prior to the celebration.

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.

James Everett Young passed away from natural causes in his home in Gilbert, Arizona on December 26, 2025. 

James was born on January 22, 1972, in Tucson, Arizona, by Virginia and Tom Young.

James loved music, fine art, dancing, family, Jesus and laughter. James was a colorful, kind spirit who touched the hearts of everyone who had the chance to meet him. James lived his life full of faith and lived to share his love with his family and friends. He always had a quick witty joke ready to go. James knew exactly what to say when you needed to laugh. 

James was deeply cherished by his family and friends and will always be remembered.

A funeral service for James will be held at Bunker’s University Chapel at 9am on January 7th, 2026.

If you would like to send flowers for the funeral please do so by Tuesday, January 6th.