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Jean Ward Davis was born May 22, 1922, in Huntington Park, California to Ralph and Sophronia “Bodie” Layton Ward. Jean graduated from Phoenix Union High School in 1941 and lived in Tucson for many years where she was employed by the Tucson Clinic. She was a loving mother, wife, daughter, sister, grandmother, and great grandmother. Jean was a devoted and thoughtful friend who was loved by all who knew her. She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Hurst and son-in-law, Craig Hurst, Mesa: 3 grandchildren, Stacey (Michael) Noble, Amy (Drew) Stewart, and Christopher (Elise) Hurst; 2 great-grandsons, Hyrum Hurst and Merik Stewart, brother Roy B. Ward and sister-in-law Jill Jordan, niece Zoe (Steve) Lonetti, and nephew Ryan Ward. Jean was preceded in death by her husband, H. Harold Davis, daughter Sandra Jean Davis, brother Vaun R. Ward, and her parents. Graveside services will be held 11:00am Thursday, September 16, 2010, Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery, 719 N. 27th Ave, Phoenix. Special thanks to Hospice of the Valley for their tender and compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local heart association, the National Children’s Leukemia Foundation, or Hospice of the Valley.

Neoma Riggs Mecham, age 85 of Gilbert, AZ passed away September 8, 2010 in Mesa, AZ. Preceded in death by her husband Gerald W. Mecham & son Frank Riggs Mecham. Survived by son Jerry Mecham & wife Laurie, daughter Dyann Cox & husband Bill. Also survived by her 14 Grandchildren, 19 Great-Grandchildren & 2 Great-Great Grandchildren. Funeral services Sept. 14, 2010 at 10:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 390 N. Greenfield Road, Gilbert, AZ. Visitation from 9-10:00 am. Interment at the Mesa Cemetary, Mesa, AZ. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Roberta Kirkwood O’Banner born May 19, 1933 in Greenwood, Mississippi. Her parents Lillie Hill-Porter and Wallace Kirkwood preceded her in death and to this union were three sisters: Rosetta Harris, Ora Lee Seaberry, and Emma Mae Porter which preceded her in death. Roberta attended school in Monies, Mississippi with only an 8th grade education. Roberta married Dorsey Lee O’Banner in October 12, 1951 and to this union six children were born.

In 1955 they moved to Mesa, Arizona where she joined Mount Calvary Church under the leadership of the late Rev. W.D. Hardison in 1958. Roberta was a domestic housewife. She loved life and her children along with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Everyone loved being around her all the time. Roberta will be sorely missed.

On September 6, 2010 Roberta left her flight in life. She leaves to cherish her loving memory her husband; Dorsey Lee O’Banner Sr. Her children: Dorsey Lee O’Banner Jr. (Clara Brown-O’Banner), Delores O’Banner-Cobb, Mary Ann O’Banner-Brezial (Charles E. Brezial Sr.) From Atlanta Ga., Jimmie Lee O’Banner (June Winton –O’Banner), Mary Louise O’Banner- Conerly (John E. Conerly) and LaVonne O’Banner. Her grandchildren: Lisa M. Hopper, Steven R. Tolton, Syreeta R. Johnson, Charles E. Brezial Jr., Milon L. Brezial, Alichia Chacon, Christine O’Banner, Natalie Gregory, Kimberly O’Banner, Kristen O’Banner, Nicholas R. Conerly, Cierra L Conerly and 17 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be Monday, September 13, 2010 from 6-8 PM at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way in Mesa. Funeral services will be Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, 1720 East Broadway Road also in Mesa.

Opal Marie DeWitt, 99, passed away September 6, 2010 in Cottonwood, AZ. She was born June 19, 1911 in Plains, New Mexico and lived most of her life in Mesa and Chandler. She worked in the family business, Sunshine Laundry and Dry Cleaning. She was preceded in death by her husband William Lynn DeWitt. Those who remain to miss her are her daughters Sherrill Crouch (James G.), of Camp Verde and Kathleen Gardner (Al), of Mesa, her grandchildren Debbie Lynne Bennett (Ron), James Allen Crouch (Rebecca), Robin Gardner Juvan, Terry Wayne Crouch (Cheli), Kelli Lynn Shell (Todd), 13 great-grandchildren, and 17 great-great grandchildren. Funeral services will be Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 11 AM, preceded by a visitation at 10 AM at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way in Mesa.

Nancy Lynn Elliott Farrill, 64, passed away Sept. 5, 2010. She battled Multiple Sclerosis for 29 years. She is survived by her children Kristen Neus (Kevin), Aaron Farrill, Amanda Kolski (Alexander), grandchildren Jessica Walder, Courtney Neus, Kendyl Neus, Connor Neus, Korynn Neus, and Alexandra Kolski. Nancy was a positive person even in adversity. Her faith was unwavering even to the end. Services will be held at the LDS church building at 495 S. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert AZ, on Friday, September 10, at 10:00 AM. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Kathy Jean Claridge. Kathy passed into the next life at home on Sunday, September 5, 2010 following a long battle with brain cancer. She was born March 22, 1945 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Joseph Fredrick Ehlers and Rose Ida Rosenhan. She moved with her family at the age of 3 to Southern California where she great up attending grade school in Redondo Beach, California, graduating from Palos Verde High School in Palos Verde Estates, California in 1963. She attended Harbor Jr. College as a freshman and married James Duane Claridge from Safford, Arizona in the Los Angeles temple. After the school year they moved to Safford for a year, then Casa Grande for a year and then to Tucson so that James could finish his Master’s degree. They then moved to Mesa in 1967 where she received an AA degree from Mesa Community College and became and EMT working in the Mesa Public Schools.

A faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, holding many positions of responsibility, Sunday school teacher, Young Women’s advisor, Stake Missionary, Primary counselor and president, Relief Society counselor and president and Family History Consultant. In July of 2002 she served a mission with her husband at the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu, Hawaii until 2004.

She is survived by her husband James and 5 children; Samantha Claridge of Chandler, David Claridge of Mesa, Carolee Burnham of Gilbert, Jeremy Claridge of Yuma and Amanda Harms of Cambridge, New Zealand. She is also survived by 19 grandchildren and one brother, Stephen Lyle Ehlers of Lancaster, California. She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, James Clayton and two brothers, Jerald and John Ehlers.

Funeral services will be held Friday, September 10, 2010 at 10:00 AM at the Mesa Boulder Creek Stake Center, 3025 South Haws Road with Bishop Glen Kennedy officiating. Friends may visit the family from 8:30 – 9:30 AM at the church. Interment will be in the Safford Cemetery in Safford, AZ following the services.

Gregory Winfield Gibbs, November 9, 1968 – August 26, 2010. A bright light has dimmed and a sparkling star has emerged somewhere in the western sky. During the summer evening of August 26th, Greg Gibbs unexpectedly died in his Tempe, Arizona home. His passing leaves an enormous void in the lives of his family and friends; however, a collection of extraordinary memories remain. Gregory Winfield Gibbs was born in Laconia, New Hampshire, on November 9, 1968, following a late fall blizzard. He was the second child and son of Marcia (Guild) and Richard Gibbs. The traits that defined Greg were forged early: creativity, charm, generosity, love of music, sharp wit, tenderness, athleticism, and a defense of the different. He was an incredible talent. Greg collected toys, antiques, memorabilia—anything that “spoke

Daniel Irizarry Obregón Pagán, 53, passed away August 29, 2010 in Mesa, Arizona. He was born July 27, 1957 in Mesa, Arizona. He was preceded in death by his father Daniel Garcia Pagán, his brother Ricardo Obregón Pagán and his nieces Tara Colleen Margarita Pagán and Rosa Cristina Liljenquist Pagán. He is survived by his wife Darlene Chapman Pagán; children Amanda Pagán (Brad), Shelledy, Katrina, and Jonathan Pagán; mother Margarita Pagán; brother Eduardo Obregon Pagán; sister Cynthia Malolo (Brent); and uncle Clint Warner. Funeral Services will be Friday, September 3, 2010 at 10 AM preceded by a visitation at 9 AM. Interment will follow at East Resthaven Cemetery, 4310 E. Southern Ave. in Phoenix. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Diane Marie Perkins, 31 passed away August 29, 2010 in Mesa, Arizona. Wake services will be Friday, September 3 at 6:00 PM at Salt River Memorial Hall, 9849 E. Earll Drive in Scottsdale. Funeral Services are Saturday, September 4 at 7:00 AM at the Salt River Cemetery, 10661 East Palm Lane in Scottsdale.

Davis, Jack, 83, passed away Monday, August 16, 2010 in Gilbert, AZ. He was born Feb 14, 1927 in Mesa, AZ. Jack grew up living on N Alma School Rd on the family farm. Jack was a schoolteacher at Mesa High for 9 years. Jack met and courted a colleague and teacher at MHS, Nathel Hutchinson, who became his best friend and eternal companion. He later earned his law degree and soon after passed the bar. He practiced law with a balance of compassion and skill. Jack served on the Mesa Planning and Zoning Board. He later served on the Mesa Public Schools Board. Jack was preceded in death by his son Kyle, father Wilbert, and mother Mabel. He is survived by daughters Stephanie Romney (Bill) and Heather Kelleher (Sean); sons Jeff (Lora), Eric (Molly), Daren (Lindsay); 22 grandchildren; and 6 great grandchildren. Visitation will be Friday, August 20 from 6-8 PM at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N Centennial Way in Mesa. There will also be a visitation Saturday, August 21 at 9 AM, followed by funeral services at 10 AM at the LDS Chandler East Stake Center, 21320 S. Greenfield Rd. in Gilbert. Interment in the City of Mesa Cemetery. Arrangements handled by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Emmie Rae Check

January 10th 2002-August 12th 2010

Our beautiful angel Emmie Rae Check was born January 10th 2002 and returned home to her Heavenly Father on August 12th 2010. She brought light into this world since the day she was born 8 1/2 years ago. Although she lived on earth confined to a body with limited capabilities, her spirit was perfectly celestial. Em-bug had a way of bringing people together which will continue through this life and into the next. She will continue to bring love and warmth to all those who were blessed to be in her presence. Riding the bus to her 2nd grade class and watching her best friend “strawberry shortcake” was sure to bring a smile upon her face. Sweet Emmie passed away peacefully in the arms of her mother and father, surrounded by two little sisters, adoring family, and heavens angels. Emmie’s journey on earth has been fulfilled and she is now abiding in paradise patiently awaiting her families return. She was surely escorted by angels to her heavenly home. Emmie is survived by her parents Tiffany & Jason Check, her younger sisters Ava,7 & Elsie,2 grandparents Debra Hines, Eileen Martan, Lonnie & Debbie McCleve & Cindy Check. Preceded in death by grandfather, Charles Joseph Check. She was also adored by her uncles, aunts and cousins.

Viewing at the Check’s residence Monday August 16th,6-8 p.m.

2840 E. Portola Valley Ct. Gilbert,AZ

Memorial Services, Tuesday August 17th, 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gilbert San Tan Stake Center,4170 Ranch House Parkway, Gilbert AZ. with a viewing at 9:00a.m.

Clara Lavern Raisler, 67, passed away August 9, 2010 in Show Low, Arizona. Funeral services are Monday, August 16, 2010 at 11 AM preceded by a visitation at 10 AM at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ.

Robert L. (Bob) Richardson, 91, passed away Friday, August 6, 2010. A 27-year resident of Chandler, Bob succumbed to cancer and was surrounded by family members at the time of his death. Bob was born September 27, 1918 in McCall, Idaho. On September 3, 1941 he married Dorothy Sue Carroll who preceded him in death following 64 years of marriage on December 13, 2005. Bob is survived by their three children, Bobby Richardson, Ulysses, KS; Darlene Cervantes, Spokane, WA; and Donna Swaving, Chandler, AZ.

In April, 1942, while serving with the Army Air Corps’ 7th Material Command, Bob was captured in the Philippine Islands and spent the next 3 ½ years in various Japanese POW camps. He was liberated in August, 1945 and returned to the United States to start his family and begin a successful career in the transportation industry. Bob’s greatest pleasure came from creating things with his hands. During the many years he lived, first in Albuquerque, NM and later in Chandler, Bob built numerous homes, boats, grandfather clocks, cabinets, toys and R/C aircraft. Additionally, he was an avid golfer, a dedicated bowler and a proud member of the East Valley Aviators Club. In addition to his children Bob is survived by a daughter-in-law, Lupita Richardson, and two sons-in-law, Steve Cervantes and John Swaving; a sister-in-law, Peggy Simmons, Amarillo, TX; two very special nieces, Lora McAllister, Mesa, AZ and Thelda Ratzat, Casa Grande, AZ; and 8 grandchildren: Tiffany Loftin, David Richardson, Lance Richardson, Steven Cervantes, Monte Cervantes, Byron Royal, Darrin Royal and Michelle Norman. In addition he leaves behind 19 great-grandchildren: Anna Kate, Abigail and Isaac Richardson; Evan and Troy Loftin; Monte, Jr., Megan, Adam, Rebecca, Joshua, Michael and Timothy Cervantes; B.J., Billy, Daniel and Dakota Royal; Trent, Carissa, and Nicolette Norman; and a very recent great-great granddaughter, Izbella Royal. A public viewing will begin at 9:30AM on Thursday, August 12, at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, followed by a Memorial Service at 10:00AM with David McAllister officiating. Interment will follow at 11:45 AM at Valley of the Sun Cemetery, 10940 East Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ.

Rueda Hicks Millett, 92, passed away Sunday, August 8, 2010 in Mesa. She was born September 17, 1917 in Provo, Utah. She came to Arizona about 1936 with her family when her father Heber C. Hicks was called as bishop of the LDS Papago Indian Ward. Rueda was a school teacher for over forty years, teaching 39 years in Mesa public schools. She was Director of the Mesa Parks and Recreation summer program for children for over 30 years. She is preceded in death by her husband Maurice, with whom she served a Church mission in London, from 1991-93. She is survived by sons Rob, and Mark (Jane), 6 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be Saturday, August 14, at 10:00AM at the LDS Park Center Ward Chapel, 422 E University Dr. in Mesa, with visitation beginning at 9:00AM. Interment in the City of Mesa Cemetery. Arrangements handled by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Johnson, Frederick G., Jr., age 80, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away on August 6, 2010, after a courageous battle with cancer. Fred was born in Phoenix on May 6, 1930, the first child of Frederick Sr. and Ruth (Hatch) Johnson. A descendant of Benjamin Franklin Johnson, he was a 5th generation member of this Mesa pioneer family. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Laurence, a sister Karen, and a grandson Nathanael. He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Marjorie K. (Guinn) Johnson; siblings E. Lee Johnson (Dianne) of Spanish Fork, UT, Jo Ann Pew (Gerald) of Lehi, UT, and Bruce Johnson (Gay) of Gilbert; his six sons McKay (Sue Anne), Lee (Elizabeth), Bryn (Lee Ann), Erin (Ginger), Webb (Vachelle), and Jared (Vickie); 23 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. A devout and life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served a two year mission in 1950-52. Throughout his life he accepted numerous church callings, including Bishop, High Councilman, Ward Clerk, and Temple worker. He was active in many community organizations, including Rotary, Optimists, and Lions clubs, various school committees, and the Boy Scouts. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. While working full time and helping to raise his sons, he graduated from Arizona State University in 1958 near the top of his class with a BS in Accounting. He was licensed as a Certified Public Accountant, and had a long and productive career in accounting. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 pm, Wednesday, August 11, at Bunker’s Garden Chapel 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa AZ 85201 (telephone 480-696-6883). His funeral service will be at 10 am on Thursday, August 12, at the LDS Beverly Ward Chapel, 1054 W. 2nd Place, Mesa AZ 85201.