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Georgia Lee McBride passed peacefully at home in St. George, Utah on March 9, 2024 with her family by her side. She was 79 years old. She spent her last days comfortably resting at home surrounded by her husband and children.

Georgia was a devoted and loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She had a strong testimony of her Savior, Jesus Christ, and was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She is survived by her husband Richard, and her seven children Jennifer Kummer, Richard McBride II, Kimberly Ward, Michael McBride, Melissa Stouffer, Roxanne Vollmer, and Camilla Yates. She was a proud grandmother of 20 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Georgia was born on January 16, 1945, in Mesa, Arizona to Otha Dell Brimhall and Winston Elyle West. In 1947, her father was killed in a car accident while volunteering with the local fire department. Her mother remarried and Georgia was raised by her mother and loving stepfather, Frank Popello. Georgia had a happy childhood with her older brother Gary, who passed in 2002, and her younger sister Janna, who passed in 1975. As a young child, Georgia enjoyed playing with her dolls and family pets. She attended Mesa public schools and BYU in Provo, Utah. She studied art but left school before graduating and returned to Mesa.

In the summer of 1965, Georgia met Richard at a church dance. After a whirlwind romance they were married on November 12th in the Mesa, Arizona Temple. They briefly lived in Mesa and then Southern California where Richard began working and attending UCLA. They eventually settled in West Los Angeles where they lived for 54 years. They had seven children in fifteen years. Georgia was a caring and hard-working mother and homemaker. Her children and home were her priority. She worked tirelessly to create a comfortable home while Richard was oftentimes busy with work and church callings. Georgia also devoted her time to church service and personal hobbies like tole painting, embroidery, gardening, and crafting. Much of her art remains on display in the homes of family and friends. She served as a ward Primary president, ward Relief Society president, and in the stake Primary and Relief Society presidencies in the Los Angeles California Santa Monica Stake. She diligently served in her callings and was an example of hard work and dedication to her children and those who served with her.

Georgia’s greatest joy was spending time with her family and grandchildren. She cared for her grandchildren as babies, helped raise them as young children, and cherished spending time with them as older teens and young adults. She showed her love through service which she continued in her later years as she cared for Richard. When she was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma in December 2023, her priority was caring for Richard, which she did until she was unable. She is greatly loved by her husband, children, grandchildren, and friends, and will be greatly missed. Until we meet again, we love you.

Georgia will be buried at the Mesa Cemetery. A graveside service will take place at Mesa Cemetery on March 30, 2024 at 10:00am. Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85201

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 Bryce Crum, 59, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away on March 7th, 2024, after a long battle with illness. Born and raised in Mesa, Robert was an alumnus of Mesa High School, where fate introduced him to his beloved Roxanne Ziegler, with whom he shared the joy of raising four wonderful sons.

Robert lived life to the fullest and enjoyed trips to the sand dunes, live sporting events, and trips to Newport Beach. He could also find contentment in life’s simple pleasures like an ice-cold Coke or a Cardinals game on tv. As a reputable plumbing contractor, he built successful businesses taking on both commercial and residential projects.

He instilled in his sons the values of hard work and determination through his admirable grit and work ethic. Whether helping with a bathroom remodel or whipping up his famous green-chili pork burritos, Robert’s dedication to his family knew no bounds. In 2006 he was remarried to Julie Adams, gaining two stepdaughters. Despite his health challenges later in life, his love and support for his family never wavered.

Robert is survived by his four sons and two stepdaughters: Bryce (Kaylee), Bruce (Mauren), Harrison (Mitsuko), Bennett (Alyssa), Madison (Trevor), and Ava. He leaves behind a legacy of 9 cherished grandchildren, with another on the way. He is also fondly remembered by his siblings, Ruth Ann, Cindy, Randy, Susan and Ryan.

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.

Eric was an incredible husband, beloved father, cherished papa, dear brother, and treasured friend. He departed this world while embracing one of his greatest joys, spending a day on the beach in Hawaii, surrounded by the beauty of the ocean that he so adored.

Eric, born on May 16, 1958, in Mesa, Arizona, was raised by exceptional parents who instilled in him the values of service and love for others from an early age. His deep affection for his parents resonated in his conversations, expressing admiration for the lessons they imparted. Eric attended Lowell Elementary School, Mesa Junior High School, and proudly graduated as a Jackrabbit from Mesa High School in 1976.

He answered the call to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Belgium Brussels mission during the years 1977-1979. He had a deep love for the French culture and language and he returned to France multiple times throughout his life.

Upon completion of his mission, Eric initially pursued a business education at Mesa Community College and Arizona State University but discovered a profound love for Real Estate. Joining Blanford Homes in 1988, he dedicated his professional journey to the company until his passing. Immersed in the real estate world, he not only loved the work but also formed strong bonds with his colleagues, whom he considered his Blanford Family.

In 1982, Eric met Monya Heath at a Stake Dance, leading to their eventual union in marriage and sealing at the Mesa Arizona Temple. They loved to travel together and spent most of their free time together exploring new places around the world. The couple was blessed with four wonderful children, whom Eric cherished, fostering deep friendships with each of them. Eric was a dedicated husband, father, and papa. His family was everything to him!

Eric appreciated the small things in life, like the start of a new day, a beautiful sunrise or sunset, walking along the shore of the ocean, a phone call from a friend or family member. He had so much gratitude for his life and the beauty of the world. He traveled so much of the world, but of all the places he loved, his heart found solace on the beaches of Mexico. Eric never met a stranger he didn’t turn into his friend. He was a friend to all. It was his gift to make people feel seen and loved, and so many people feel as if they are his best friend with his famous hugs and the trademark twinkle in his eyes!

Eric is survived by his wife, Monya Williams, and their four children and their spouses: Kayla Roussel (Jeremy), Blake Williams (Chloe), Kaitlyn Wright (Brian), and Haleigh Bigelow (Scott) and his ten grandchildren : Recker (14), Ezra (11), Phoenix (9), Weslie (8), Teddy (7), Archie (7), Ellis (6), Zeek (3), Sena (3), and Florence (2).

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.

Edwin Ray Spear passed peacefully on March 3, 2024 at home surrounded by his family.  He was 94 years old.  Ed, or Ray as he was known to his parents and siblings, was born on October 7, 1929 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota to George and Catherine Spear.  He grew up with his two brothers and three sisters during the Great Depression and World War II.  He spent time riding his bike and playing softball with his brother Richard and friends, reading books in quiet places, hunting pheasants, and learning about auto mechanics from his father.  He served in the Navy on active duty from 1948 to 1949, then joined the Air Force during the Korean War and served as an airplane engine mechanic and crew chief with the Strategic Air Command.  He graduated from South Dakota State University in 1959 with a degree in Industrial Engineering then worked for Motorola until he retired in 1996.

After a brief, whirlwind romance, Ed married his wife Georgia Dodge on August 20, 1965.  They lived in Tempe then moved to Mesa in 1979, where Ed lived the rest of his life in the house that he designed.  He enjoyed reading, jogging, road trips with Georgia and his children, and his dog Pete.  Ed is survived by his wife, Georgia, their four children Robert Spear (Julie), David Spear (Carla), Rachelle Thornton (Neal), and Jennifer Shumway (Doug), and fifteen grandchildren.  Services for Ed arranged by Bunker Family Funerals will take place on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 11:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Mesa East Stake Center at 2228 East Brown Road, Mesa, Arizona.  There will be a viewing at 10:00 am and a graveside service at the Mesa Cemetery immediately after the funeral.

For those unable to attend services, they will be lived streamed : https://zoom.us/j/93990165610

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.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Linda Jean Bevell, a loving mother, and a remarkable woman.  Linda’s courageous battle with cancer came to an end on February 25, 2024 at her home surround by family and friends.

Linda, was born on September 25, 1945 to Lealand McNeil and Frances Isabelle Williams Bevell in Memphis, Tennessee.  Linda was the 10th of 12 children.   She is survived by 2 sons, Rich Benjamin Porter and Jared Neil Bevell, 7 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and 2 siblings, William Evan Bevell and Stella Marie Bevell Horne.

Linda’s nurturing spirt, unwavering support, and boundless love will forever live on in the hearts of her children.  In addition to her professional accomplishments in the dental field, Linda was known for her determined and witty personality.  She had a generous heart, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.  Linda’s kindness and compassion touched the lives of many, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Linda’s memory will forever be cherished by her family and friends… a memorial service to celebrate Linda’s life will be  held on March 6, 2024 at the LDS church located at 933 E. Brown Rd. Mesa, AZ 85203.  There will be a family viewing at 9 am followed by a memorial service at 10 am.

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.

Doug Eaves formally known as Joe Douglas Eaves, 85 was called home on February 29, 2024 in Mesa, Arizona.

He was born to Carl and Minnie Eaves in Snowflake, Arizona in 1938.

Doug, respected by all, led a life of hard work and dedicated service to anyone he met. He loved his friends, his horses, and most of all his Heavenly Father and Savior and his family.

His legacy will be continued through his children, Cherlene, Douger and, Jody, 14 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 1 brother, Phillip Eaves. Doug was proceeded in death by his beloved wife, Glenna, his oldest daughter, Faylene, his parents, Carl and Minnie Eaves, his brothers Larry and Fred, and his sister, Janet.

Services will be held Saturday, March 9th, at the Lehi Ward Building (830 E Lehi Road, Mesa, Arizona 85203). Visitation will begin at 9:30am, Funeral Service at 11:00am followed by the Burial at Mountain View Cemetery (7900 East Main Street, Mesa Arizona).
Bunker Family Funerals/Cremation in Mesa AZ will be handling funeral arrangements (480-830-4105)

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 Michael Thomas beloved son, husband, father, and friend passed peacefully in his home on February 29, 2024. Michael was born on June 17, 1957 in Toledo, Ohio, to parents, William Henry Thomas and LouAnn Bowerman.

From the very beginning, Michael’s life was marked by a sense of purpose and determination.

Early on he was a dedicated martial artist, Golden Glove boxer and endurance athlete. His determination for greatness was evident as he achieved a black belt in Kenpo Karate. His dedication to the sport led him to spar with legendary martial artist Chuck Norris.

Beyond his martial arts accomplishments, Michael was an accomplished endurance athlete. He participated in numerous ultra marathons, too many standard marathons to count, and completed the prestigious Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run. Additionally, he conquered the Iron Man competition multiple times, showcasing his remarkable physical and mental fortitude.

Throughout his life, Michael embodied the values of love, strength, and resilience. He faced life’s challenges with courage and perseverance.

In 1980 William found the love of his life in Laurie Lambson Thomas and together they built a life filled with three fantastic children. In young married life Michael and Laurie operated a lawn mowing service out of Michael’s precious powder blue Thunderbird. Together they put dreams to reality and opened up their own mortgage institution in 1993, with its unfortunate closing in 2001. Michael would continue to work in mortgage banking touching the lives of many.

As a young father, Michael exemplified a spirit of fun and light-heartedness. He was known for his playful nature and memorable antics, such as his impromptu performance as Elvis Presley for his oldest daughter’s elementary school presidential bid. His ability to bring joy and laughter to those around him was truly remarkable and left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

In his early life  Michael found great joy in his service within the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). He spent countless hours mentoring and guiding young men in their spiritual and personal growth. He was deeply committed to the Boy Scout troop, leading adventurous outings and helping scouts earn merit badges.

Throughout his life, Michael served in various capacities within the church, including the High Council and Bishopric.

In his later years Michael served in the church cannery, despite the challenges of declining health.

In addition to his many accomplishments, Michael faced and persevered through significant challenges with mental health, demonstrating incredible strength and courage in his battle. The descendants of Michael would like to thank friends, family, and the countless mental health professionals and staff that took care of him through the years.

Michael’s courageous battle with mental health has influenced his children, who have shown resilience and compassion in their personal and professional lives. Whether through personal experiences or professional endeavors, many of his children have chosen advanced degrees in healthcare, inspired by their father’s journey and determined to make a difference in the lives of others.

Michael was a proud papa to nine grandchildren, each bringing joy and happiness into his life. He cherished the time spent with them and always enjoyed seeing their smiling faces. His grandchildren will deeply miss his presence.

William Michael Thomas will be deeply missed. He is survived by former wife Laurie Thomas and children Brandon (Jenna)Thomas, daughters London (Joseph) Caudle, and Savannah (Derek) Tanner, and 9 grandchildren. His mother LouAnn MacDonald, Brothers Greg Thomas, Billy MacDonald, sisters Jana (Leighton)True, Julie (Mike) Brask.

Michael’s services will be held Friday March 8th at Bunkers Funeral Home, 3529 E University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85213

10:00 am Visitation

11:00am Funeral

Interment at City of Mesa cemetery

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.

Patricia Wiegel, 88, passed peacefully at home in Mesa, Arizona on February 26, 2024, with family at her side.  She was surrounded by family the last few days as she laughed and shared memories of days gone by.  Pat lived a beautiful life filled with love from family, friends and devotion to her church.

Pat was born December 22nd, 1935 in Salt Lake City, Utah, the daughter of Hilma and Andrew Glad.  She is survived by her children Michelle (Dennis) Miller, Kevin (Mindy) Wiegel and Melanie (Keith) Perkins, her brothers Andrew Glad, Warren Glad and sister Vickie Conrad.

She was a loving grandmother to 15 grandchildren, 32 great grand children and 1 great great granddaughter.  Pat was preceded in death by her parents, her husband John, her son Blaine Wiegel and her sisters Deanne Darger and Kathy Glad.

Pat married the love of her life John Wiegel in 1955 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple.  The wife of a career service member in the US Army, Pat created a loving home for her husband and 4 wonderful children as they navigated the adventures and challenges of living all over the USA and the world, including stays in Thailand, Taiwan and Ethiopia.  Following those many adventures, the family retired in 1977 to Mesa, AZ., where they bought a house and made it the family home for the next 50 years.  That home became an extension of the family and the place in which so many happy memories were made.

After John retired, together they embarked on a wide and dynamic series of travels that took them all across the world.  They loved traveling with family members, going on cruises and enjoying the many wonders of the Lord’s creations.

Pat was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and loved serving the Lord, sharing testimony in her Young Women, Primary and Relief Society service.  Following John’s passing, Pat was called to serve on a mission at the LDS Family History Library in Salt Lake City where she served with great joy and a big smile.

Upon returning from her mission Pat continued to live a busy and full life.  She spent many summers with her friends relaxing on the sandy beach in North Carolina, traveling to visit family and remained active in the church.  The last few years, Pat was an eager ranch hand collecting the eggs from the chickens and feeding the horses on Melanie & Keith’s ranch by ShowLow.

Patricia will be missed by many tender hearts however we know she was ready to make the journey home and rejoin her beloved John and family.   We will work to carry on her legacy of love and service as we cherish all she shared with us.

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.

Scott Barton Porter was born in Monticello, Utah on May 7^th, 1952 to Eugene and Anne Porter. He was one of six children. Siblings are Alan Porter, Cindy Buer, DeeAnne Christopherson, Sandy Porter, and Matt Porter. He met his wife, Garla Knight, while working together at Hogue Printing in Mesa, Arizona. They were married on April 20^th, 1973, and enjoyed over 50 years of marriage together. They welcomed five children, Chad (Lupe) Porter, Rachel (Robert) Wren, Michaella Porter, Jesse (Wendy) Porter, and Sara (Sean) Bogan and 15 grandchildren. He was surrounded by his family when he returned to his Heavenly family on Saturday, February 24^th, 2024.

Scott spent his youth exploring the outdoors on Blue Mountain Ranch owned and operated by his parents. He learned hard work side by side with his parents and siblings to maintain the land, including breaking the horses. He loved anything in nature, outdoors, camping, hunting, hiking, off-roading, and impromptu trips with his children and grandchildren. He also loved his country.

Scott started out as pressman in the newspaper industry. He worked diligently, excelling at whatever job he was promoted to. This required moving to different locations to gain experience. Always moving up the ladder to become the Production Director at The Spectrum in St. George, Utah. The next 14 years were spent as Senior Vice President of Operations for Utah Media Group, Salt Lake City, Utah where he retired from a long 53 year career.

Scott’s greatest joy in life was his wife, children, grandchildren, and the many, many random acts of kindness and service he constantly provided. As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints we know that families are forever!

Till we meet again Dad!

With love, your Family

Services will be Saturday, March 2nd, 2024

5:30 pm: Visit and enjoy a casual dinner with us

7:00 pm: Program

Cultural Hall

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

9431 E. Point Twenty-Two Blvd.

Mesa, AZ 85212

Enter on the West side of the building.

Please let us know if you can attend by clicking on the link below:

https://forms.gle/f2ifiDHE74Q8kckq5

*Zoom link will be provided for those that cannot be with us in person.

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.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mia Adalyn Preston on February 23, 2024, a bright and loving four-year-old who left us too soon. Mia is the beloved daughter of Nick Preston and Alia Calano Preston, and a cherished sister to Dax, Troy, and Wells.

Mia’s kind, funny, and gentle nature brought joy to all who knew her. Her special love for makeup and Disney princesses was a reflection of the wonder she saw in the world. Never without her purse of lip gloss and arm full of bracelets, Mia made a deep impact on all who met her. She overcame her fear of water after a drowning accident at the age of two and learned ISR (Infant Swimming Rescue), ultimately saving countless lives by sharing her bravery and accomplishment.

She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, her memory living on in the hearts of those who loved her. Mia’s wonderful and loving spirit will be remembered always.

Mia has been welcomed to heaven by her beloved Papago, Richard Calano, who preceded her in death. Tethered together in life, they remain tethered together in death.

Funeral services are Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Life Church, 16831 S Greenfield Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85295. Flowers can be sent to Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85213.

The family would like to thank the community for the outpouring of love and support.

I love you more than all the stars in the sky.

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.

David Paul March, 68, of Mesa, Arizona passed away on Wednesday, February 7th, 2024 at his home.

David was born December 20th, 1955, in Wichita, Kansas to James E and Phyllis C (Rose) March.

He married his high school sweetheart, Mary D Waldbeesser, on April 19, 1975 at the St Clements Catholic Church in Dunlap, Illinois.  They renewed their vows on September 11, 2008.

David was a skilled photographer and there were years that he spent many hours enjoying and photographing the wild horses along the Salt River among other adventures.

Surviving are his wife, Mary of Mesa, AZ, daughter Briana March of Mesa, AZ, 4 granddaughters: Michaella Quinn (Tyrel) of Safford, AZ, Serenity Ashlyn Rose Quinn (Morgan ) of Mesa, AZ, Jenna Peppers  (Joshua) of Scottsdale, AZ and Desarae Serrafin Marsh (Scotty) of Apache Junction, AZ. David is also survived by his sister, Laureen Marie March of Peoria, IL, brothers: Richard Lee March (Tina) and Anthony Michael (Alycia) as well as his sister-in-law, Laurie Ann March. David had many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great, great nieces. His great grandchildren: Osean, Rome, Ryker, Jeremiah and Azayla as well as a village of acquired grandchildren including: Bernice, Savannah, Larry, David, Olivia and Johnny, just to name a few.

Those proceeding him in death were his mother, father and two brothers: James Nelson March and Allan Leroy March.

In lieu of a formal service, loved ones and friends are welcome to leave their messages and memories below.

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.

In loving memory of William (Bill) Walter Arnett, 86, who passed away peacefully after a short illness on February 26, 2024.  Born to Melba Gardner Arnett and Walter Finchum Arnett in Mesa, Arizona on June 18, 1937, Bill spent most of his life in Mesa, except for a few years during World War II when he lived in Yuma.

Bill spent his childhood exploring the fields and byways of Mesa on horseback, delivering newspapers, playing with fireworks, caring for his family’s livestock, running track in high school, water skiing, and working in his father’s automotive garage.  He graduated from Mesa High school in 1955 and was awarded a Bachelor of Business Administration from Brigham Young University in 1961.  He served the Lord as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to the Northern States Mission (Chicago) from 1957 to 1959.

Bill’s primary vocational goal in life was to be a successful entrepreneur.  As such, he owned and managed many successful businesses, including Yellow and Checker Taxicab of Phoenix and Tucson; Arnett Transportation Services; La Hacienda Travel Resort Park; and many land development projects in the East Valley.  Bill also served on the Board of Directors of the Salt River Project for 41 years and was the president of the Mesa Baseline Rotary Club in 1977.

He was a steadfast member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served in many callings, including Deacon’s Quorum Advisor, Explorer Scout Advisor, Senior Member of the Stake 70’s Quorum, Stake High Councilor, and Stake Mission President.  He served twice as an LDS bishop: first, to the 46^th Ward of the Mesa East Stake; and second, to the 6^th Ward of the Tempe Arizona University Stake.

Bill’s wife, Patricia Scott Clyde Arnett, preceded him in death in 2004.  He nurtured a deep love for Patricia and worked side-by-side with her as a devoted husband, loving parent, church servant, and community member.   Bill is survived by his elder sister Leslie Sezate of Mesa and his younger sister Sydney Arnett and her husband Rockne Arnett of Mesa; and his 7 children: Bill Arnett and his wife Cynthia, Robert Arnett and his wife Lanie, David Arnett and his wife Tiffany; Shauna Arnett Cole and her husband Scott; Diane Arnett Gardiner and her husband Monte; Karen Arnett Buehler and her husband Fidalis; and Stephen Arnett and his wife Brindy.  He also leaves behind 37 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be conducted at the LDS Church at 1911 N. 24^th Street, Mesa on Sunday, March 3 beginning at 3:30 pm, with visitation one hour prior to the service.  Following the funeral, Bill’s friends are invited to his home at 1459 N. Gaylord Circle, Mesa, 85213 to enjoy one last “Bill-Style” dinner in his honor.  Interment will take place at the City of Mesa Cemetery on Monday, March 4, at 9:00 am.

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.

Mozelle McClelland was born September 26, 1950, to Norma Jean and Morris Oliver Myers.

The family unit was part of the great migration of black families moving from Texas to Arizona. After being in Tucson, Arizona a while, the family united with Trinity Baptist Church and later made a move to South Tucson and changed their church affiliation to Grace Temple Baptist Church where Mozelle sang in the choir.

Mozelle attended Pueblo High School where she was a member of the Pep Squar as a Song Leader.  After graduation from Pueblo, Mozelle attended the University of Arizona and worked for Mountain Bell Telephone Company for 25 years until retiring in 2000.

While with the telephone company, Mozelle transferred to a job in Phoenix, Arizona in 1977. Shortly after moving to Phoenix, she met Gerald McClelland, and they were soon married.  Mozelle and Gerald had two children, Tramayne and Jenah.

Left with precious memories are her husband Gerald, their son Tramayne and their daughter Jenah. Also, brothers Eddie Myers, Morris Myers (Cynthia), and sisters Gloria Myers Doty (Morris), Mary Myers, and Phyllis Myers Smith, and many nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Services will be Friday March 1, 2024 at time to be determined at The Word Church, 931 S Stapley Drive, Mesa, AZ 85204.

Please send letters of condolences to:

Gerald McClelland

40775 W. James Lane

Maricopa, AZ 85138

Louise Tanner Pratt (born Billie Louise Compton) came into this world on February 20, 1935, in the small town of Grants, New Mexico. She was born to loving parents, Calvin and Lucille Compton, and was the fifth of eleven children. She would always describe her childhood as a happy one and, in turn, provided an idyllic one for us. While they lived in several areas in New Mexico and Colorado during her early years (she attended 6 different schools before 5^th grade), it was Monticello, Utah that she called home. Moving there changed her life significantly. For the first time, they lived close enough to town to walk to school—and compared to the one-room schoolhouses they’d attended up to that point, this one felt huge. Oh, how she loved Monticello! And the town loved her back—voting her the school sweetheart of 1952.  She always advised us to honk anytime we drove through in order to show respect for the town that raised her. They lived there six years, by far the longest they’d ever spent in one place, and then moved to Farmington, New Mexico, where she would attend her junior and senior years of high school.

The love story between Louise and Don Tanner began in true 1950’s fashion: at the local drive-in where she’d ordered a soda while cruising Main. Don and his buddy pulled up next to Louise and her friend, who were sitting in her friend’s white and blue convertible, and to hear Don tell it, there were fireworks. For him, anyway. Louise took a little more convincing. Not much though, they met in early May, were inseparable by June, engaged in August, and married that November 5, 1955, in a small church in Farmington. They would later be sealed for time and all eternity in the Mesa, Arizona temple on June 3, 1959. Don and Louise welcomed six kids in the short span of 11 years. They filled their home with laughter, love, joy, and an enduring faith in Jesus Christ. It was that deep and abiding faith that sustained Louise as she lost her son, Sheldon, in 2004, and then Don in 2007. After losing her sweet husband of 51 years, she declared to anyone who asked (and often those who didn’t) she would never marry again. Then along came Wayne Pratt and she quickly changed her tune. They were married on December 29, 2009 in Mesa, Arizona. In speaking of finding love twice, Louise would often borrow a quote from the Sound of Music: “Somewhere in my youth and childhood, I must have done something good to deserve not just one, but two, amazing husbands.” We’re quite sure Don and Wayne would both say they came away the winners.

We are blessed to have learned invaluable lessons from Louise during her 89 years. Here are just a few: food is a love language (no one who sunk their teeth into her warm homemade bread slathered in butter and homemade jam or ate one of her cinnamon rolls or had a slice of her currant pie would doubt she loved them), if it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing beautifully, and when life is hard, serve others. Spend as much time as you can in the garden, take good care of the birds (Don said they often ate better than he did), and there are few problems not made better by a good nap or a big bowl of ice cream. She took bed-making seriously: ironed sheets and hospital corners were a must and, she’d argue, led to a better night’s sleep. You couldn’t leave the house without hearing “lock your doors and remember who you are.” We knew we were hers and we were loved. Holidays (especially Christmas) should be full of magic and never miss an opportunity to make life more fun. She could often be heard reminding her grandkids to look sharp and not stand out like a sore thumb—her lovely sense of style was unmatched. One of the most crucial lessons she taught us is that we can do hard things. She handled fortune and misfortune with the same grace, confidence, and decorum. (Strength and beauty are synonyms.) Even as dementia took her more and more from us, she never lost her beautiful smile or failed to thank others for the care they provided her.

We’re a little jealous of the reunion Louise is having in heaven with our father, Don, and brother, Sheldon—as well as her parents, nine siblings, and countless close friends and family. We can almost hear the stories and laughter from here. She leaves behind her husband, Wayne, her five remaining children, Don Jr. (Pam), Mitch, Tyde, (Linda) Sterling (Brenda), Rachel (Matt), and Sheldon’s wife, Liliane, as well as 22 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and her sister, Jo Ellen Martin. In lieu of flowers, Louise would love for you to plant some of your own, feed the birds, or fix yourself a heaping bowl of ice cream.

Funeral Service:

Saturday, March 9^th at 11:00am

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

601 Susan Ave.

Gallup, NM 87301

Memorial Service:

Saturday, March 30^th at 11:00am

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

3572 E Guadalupe Rd

Gilbert, AZ 85234

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.

Julie Daniel, 66, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 in her Queen Creek, Arizona home surrounded by her family.

Julie lived a very happy life filled with spending time with her family, having lunch with friends and may activities such as quilting, cross stitching, and jewelry making.

In 1976, she married her high school sweetheart Gene! They just celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary in November 2023. In that time Julie and Gene had four children! Kelli Daniel, Karen Cope (David), Kate Hartley (Chad) and Matt Daniel (Ellie) and were able to enjoy 10 grandchildren.  Korbin, Quentin, Ambrose, Isla, Avery, Allie, Emma, Hailey, Cami and Alexa.

A visitation will be held at Bunker’s University Chapel at 3529 E University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85213 on March 1st at 5:30 PM; all are welcome to attend.

Funeral services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 21915 E. Cloud Rd. Queen Creek, AZ. 85142 on Saturday, March 2nd at 10:00 AM with a visitation one hour prior at 9:00 AM.

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.

Lettie “Jean” Farey Woodruff, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2024 in Chandler, AZ at the age of 91. She was born to Oliver and Catherine Farey in Delta, Utah on June 23, 1932. She married her sweetheart, George Woodruff May 27, 1950 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Later their marriage was solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple.

She was a stay-at-home mom until the children grew up, then she went to work because she wanted something to do. She was involved in Scounting for 27 years, held many callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints including Relief Society President. Jean loved having family and friends around as well as having parties and get-to-gathers at her home in Magna.

Jean was proceeded in death by her husband, two of her sons Richard and Douglas, as well as her parents and 1 sister.

She is survived by her sons, Dean (Lynn), Wendell (Katrina), daughter Catherine (Kevin) Bersch, 10 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, who will miss her.

A memorial service will be held March 2, 2024 at 3:00 pm at the Summit Point Ward House, 2520 N Hartford St., Chandler, AZ. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice of the Valley are suggested.

She will be interred in West Valley City, Utah

Condolences: www.bunkerfuneral.com

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.