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Joy Beth Crandell   August 28, 1935 – July 4, 2023

Joy Beth Crandell (Grandma Great) passed away peacefully on the 4^th of July and gained her ultimate independence at the age of 87.  Joy loved her family, church, and country.  She lived life to the fullest every day.  Joy was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many capacities.

Joy was born August 28, 1935 in Pie Town, New Mexico, to Mabel and Glen Johnson.  Throughout her life she lived in Aztec, New Mexico along with Arizona cities – Tolleson, Tempe, Phoenix, and Mesa.

Joy loved her family!  Delbert and Joy (married 71 years) are the parents of 9 children – Dave, Dale, Darla Rider, Don, Daren, Devin, and Doug (2 preceded her in death – Richard and Dana), 34 grandchildren, and 65 great-grandchildren (one on the way).  She attended every event possible when her posterity was involved:  ball games, dance recitals, plays, graduations, etc.

Joy was an avid reader and kept up with what is going on in the world.  She loved Instagram and keeping up with her family.  She was an Angel who always made everyone feel special and always told everyone how proud she was of all of her grandchildren.  She was always up for a game of cards or Dominoes.  She liked to WIN!

She always sang to her family – “I love you, a bushel and a peck, a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck!”

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.

Craig G Shumway, 63, passed away on Friday, June 30, 2023 in Mesa, Arizona.

He was born to Royd and Carmen Shumway, on January 18, 1960, in Mesa, Arizona. Craig was a kind, loving man who will be greatly missed and will always hold a place in our hearts.

He is survived by his wife Lori, children Gentry, Kyle, Lorissa, Kylie, and 8 grandchildren. He is fondly remembered, and as he often said “be good, do what’s right, and remember I love you.”

Funeral services are Friday, July 7, 2023 at 10 AM, preceded by a viewing at 9 AM at 1266 S 32nd St, Mesa, AZ 85204.

The funeral service will be viewable thru this link: https://youtube.com/live/_OvvS7x3lxA?feature=share

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 Murray Norberg was born July 3, 1968, in Mesa, AZ the son of Jaron B. and Deena Sherman Norberg joining older brothers Scott Jaron and Michael Sherman.  He grew up in Tempe, AZ and graduated from Tempe High School in 1986.  He attended Brigham Young University in Provo, UT before serving a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Japan, Tokyo South Mission, where he was an assistant to the Mission President.

Upon his return, he finished his education at BYU and Arizona State University, graduating with a degree in English Literature.  He married Melissa Ann Keller in 1993 and the talented, artistic couple lived in Phoenix, Paris and Manhattan.  Even after their marriage ended, Eric and Melissa remained good friends throughout his life.

Eric loved his cats, movies, and sports.  He could often be found taking daily six to eight mile walks on the Mesa canals.  He was an avid reader and writer.  He had an artist’s eye in photography and a poet’s appreciation for good literature.  He was smart and witty as well as being loving, gentle and kind.  He had a patient and observant nature, which allowed him to see and appreciate unique elements and qualities in people and things.  He often had a way of bringing extra meaning, colors, and textures to the conversation.

Eric is preceded in death by his brother, Scott and his father, Jaron.  Eric is survived by his mother, Deena Sherman, brother Michael (wife Darci; Shayna, Nathan & Mindy and Nova Norberg, Megan & Coulter and Saint and Rosie Reynolds; and Samantha); his nephews Adam Scott Norberg (wife Sarah; Henry, Elle and Chloe) and Cody Jaron Norberg (wife Alex; Jojo and Jay; former wife Leyla; Margot, William and Jack).

Eric passed away on June 28, 2023 in Mesa due to complications resulting from his ongoing struggle with alcoholism.  We love E and miss him.  In line with his wishes, we are holding a simple and private service for him this Saturday.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to AZBrainfood.org –  or reach out and give time to someone in need.

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.

Charles “Charlie” Edward Vark, Sr., at the age of 89, went home to Jesus peacefully surrounded by his family on June 28, 2023.  He was born August 16, 1933 in Hannibal, Missouri.  In Heaven Charlie was reunited with his parents, William and Thresie, his sister, Delorise, and his brother, William, Jr.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Evelyn, children Teresa (Michael) and Charles Jr. (Sally).  His legacy continues with his 5 grandchildren Charlotte (Lee), Charles III (Samantha), Grace, Adam, and Anna.  As well as with his 4 great-grandchildren Katelyn, Chelsea, Hailee, and Paxion.  He is also survived by his extended family of 5 nieces and 2 nephews and their families.

After earning his degree in electrical engineering from the University of Missouri – Rolla, Charlie spent the majority of his career working in aerospace avionics for McDonnell Douglas and the Department of the Army.  Charlie and Evelyn moved from St. Louis Missouri to Mesa in 1985 where he worked for Hughes Helicopters and retired from Boeing in Mesa in 1995.

While his faith and his family were the most important parts of his life, Charlie enjoyed golfing and gardening.  He was also an active member of his church, St. Luke Lutheran Church, singing in the choir, attending Bible studies, and serving in a variety of other ways.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 6, 2023 at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University Drive, Mesa.  Visitation will begin at 10:00 am with the memorial service to begin at 10:30 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.

Elizabeth Susan Nafoosi, 58, of Chandler, AZ passed away on June 18, 2023.

Elizabeth was born on June 19, 1964. Elizabeth graduated from Lincoln-Way High School in 1983, she went on to study Accounting at Joliet Junior College.

Elizabeth worked at Dominick’s while achieving her accounting degree. She also helped her parents with flipping homes. During this time, she learned more about real estate, which would be in her future.

In 1986, Elizabeth met Monty in Frankfort, IL at her home. Monty and Liz had the same goals and aspirations. They were an amazing team together and wanted nothing but the best. As she grew in the business world, she became an 8A Federal Contractor. One of her biggest accomplishments was owning her own business solely as a women owned business. The business started in Illinois as Federal Property Management Corporation and grew in 1999 to Federal Property Management Corporation of Utah, which over saw HUD homes in 11 states.  She had so much passion and drive to grow the business, which she was very successful.

Elizabeth and Monty went on to have 1 child, Natalie.  Natalie was Liz’s whole world, she loved her beyond words. There was never enough time to spend with Natalie. Liz was so proud of Natalie and her accomplishments. She is always there for her daughter no matter what.

In her spare time, she enjoyed: spending time with her dogs, reading, crafting, traveling, and listening to mentor tapes. She loved spending time with her family. One of her favorite places for traveling was to Cabo, Mexico with her family.

Elizabeth is survived by: Daughter (Natalie Nafoosi), Mother- (Vicki Jackson),

Father- (Craig Jackson), Sister (Jennifer Biegel), Brother-in-law (Robert Biegel), Soon to be Nephew (Baby Biegel, BB).

Services will be held at St. Anthony on July 1, 2023, at 11 AM.

John L. Dixon passed away Monday, June 19^th, 2023 at the age 70. John was a beloved friend to many and an active member of the LDS church. With his passing, he is now reunited with his dear mother, Margaret June Newbold, and his brother, Raymond Byers Dixon.

John was born in Springfield, Missouri and lived and worked in that region during his early years. He served for over a decade in the Navy, achieving numerous honors and medals. During his service, he learned to be a skilled electrician, a craft he developed and used through his career in the oil rig industry. His career provided opportunities to travel the world, visiting Dubai, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia and countless other locales. Shortly after moving to Arizona, John joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and found a welcoming community of friends and neighbors, as well as countless opportunities to serve. He especially enjoyed his mission where he got to serve and help those in need. He was always a very generous and kind soul and loved to give gifts to charities that were dear to his heart. John went to culinary school and became a chef. He and his long-time friend, Dave Garza, had an award-winning food truck for a number of years called “Goodness Gracious Great Balls & Sliders”. John always loved to try new recipes for holidays or the Superbowl parties he attended. He was an enthusiastic drummer and earned the nickname “Animal” due to his red hair and love of drumming. He was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys.

John will be especially missed by the Garza family, of which he was a long-time honorary member and was lovingly referred to as “Uncle John”. We miss you and love you so much, Uncle John!

A memorial service for John Dixon will be held Saturday, July 15^th at 10:00am at the LDS chapel 745 N. Val Vista Drive Mesa, AZ 85213. John will be interred at the Veterans’ National Memorial Cemetery of AZ.

Alexander Henry Sims-Oso was born June 30, 1988, to Ellen Gene Sims and Adam Boston Jr. He was a lifelong resident of Mesa, Arizona. Alex accepted Christ as his personal Savior as a teen and worshiped at Holy Temple Church of God in Christ. The youngest of Ellen Gene Sims’ four children, he was the “baby brother”. Neighbors would often hear the familiar sound as his family called for him across the streets of the Washington-Escobedo neighborhood: “ALEXANDER!!!”

Alexander, or Alex, was also affectionately known by the nickname “Peanut” to family and friends in The Village, growing up on Pasadena Street. Alex was very creative, and enjoyed drawing, writing and doodling in his spare time. Alex loved to laugh and had a unique sense of humor. He loved to listen to music, especially hip-hop, oldies and reggae, often making up songs for fun, whistling a tune and experimenting with instruments and recording equipment. He was a caring uncle, teaching his nieces and nephews how to ride bikes and fly kites and playing video games for hours. Alex was a caregiver to his mother Ellen when she became disabled and a great help to his beloved Aunt Martha Stewart. While growing up, his dad’s sister Charlotte Nelson enjoyed spending time with Alex and he also enjoyed sitting with his paternal grandmother Gladys and learning about life. Alex loved his furry four-legged companions Bear, Zeus, Chappo and Thanos. Peanut had many friends and enjoyed cards, domino games and deep conversations. Alex lived briefly in Arkansas after the birth of his daughter E’monie, before returning home to Mesa. He was a special person and very loved by the people in his life, leaving an impression on those who only knew him for a short time.

On Friday June 16, 2023 The Lord received Alex back to His arms. Alexander is survived by his mother Ellen Gene Sims, Aunt Martha Stewart, daughter Dezlyna E’monie Sauché Murdock, siblings including Andrea Fray, Joseph Fray, Anshantia Oso, Linda Boston, Trina Boston, Leisha Boston, Elizabeth Boston and Adam Boston lll. his niece and nephews Gregory Fray, Tamika Fray and Zachary Fray and great nieces and nephews Isaiah Fray, Israel Fray, Mariah Grace Fray, Analicia Fray, Kamoni Fray, Zayana Fray, Zachary Fray Jr., Zhyied Fray and Lamar Fray. He was preceded in death by his father Adam Boston Jr., Aunt Charlotte Nelson, grandmothers Corene Humdy and Gladys Boston and his beloved uncle Earnest Humdy.

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.

William Bruce Merrill 93 years of age passed through the veil from mortality into the presence of God on June 20, 2023, in Mesa, Arizona. William was born on September 4, 1929, in Hayden, Arizona. He was the last of nine children of Pearl and Edgar Merrill. He is preceded in death by his parents Pearl Smith Merrill Duke and Edgar Merrill, his sisters Belva Merrill Slade, Ella Merrill Anderson, Irma Merrill Fullagar Smith, Christy Maxine and brothers Calvin, Herbert, Steven, and Gene. William’s father Edgar passed away in 1930 and the family relocated from Hayden to Kimball Street in Mesa. Mother Pearl remarried Thomas Duke in 1934 and the family with the three youngest boys moved to a farm in Provo Utah. William at the age of 16 joined the United States Marine Corps. He was sworn in on July 24, 1946, in Salt Lake City, Utah, and served until 1948. He married Vada Crawford in 1947 in Hawthorn, Nevada they had two children and were divorced in 1953. He worked for the Reno Fire Department from 1952 to 1954 as a Hose man, then Tiller on the ladder truck. Upon returning to Arizona in 1956 he married Dorothy Felix in time settling in Mesa they had two children. William retired as a Lieutenant, from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office in 1978, having served 22 years. That same year he became Chief of Police of Paradise Valley. In 1981 after again retiring from his law enforcement career and teaching Criminal Justice at Mesa Community College he started driving Tour Bus all over the country until 1996 when he retired and never worked again. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 60th Ward. William had four children: Sue Ellen (Mike) Banks, William Jr. who died in 1978, Nancy Maria (Dale) Davis, and Todd Ellis (Debbie) Merrill. Eight Grandchildren: April, Justin, Jimmy, Jason, Elena, Thomas, Catalina, and Ava. Five Great-Grandchildren Steven, Layni, Lexi, Brooke, and Hanna. Four Great-Great-Grandsons: Hudson, Charlie, Beckham, and Dakarai. Visitation is Friday, June 30, 2023, from 6-8 pm, at Bunkers Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa. Funeral Services are Saturday, July 1, 2023, at 10 am, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel 2152 E. Adobe St., Mesa. Interment to follow at Mountain View Cemetery. For More Information go to www.bunkersfuneral.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.

Raylene Russell Lavender, age 78, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by all 6 of her children by her side. She is now reunited with her daddy, Cyrus Russell and her Grandbaby, Austin Lavender. Our family will miss her dearly and her passing will leave a huge hole in our hearts.

Our dear sweet Mother loved truly and unconditionally, and her children and Grandchildren were her whole world. She protected her children without them even knowing they needed protecting.

Our Mother was our Selfless, Faithful, Steadfast, and Spiritual warrior! She was a perfect example of Christ-like love and enduring to the end.

Our most loving Mother was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints and served and magnified her callings endlessly.

Our Precious Mother used her talents to make beautiful cards to send notes of encouragement to those who were sick, had birthdays, or cards of sympathy.

Raylene Russell Lavender is survived by her children, Kristy Lavender Babbitt, Celeste Lavender Kniefel, Marchelle Lavender, Scott Lavender, Jenae Lavender Farnsworth, Wendilyn Lavender, 28 Grandchildren and 15 Great-Grandchildren, Mother, Lurline Ray Russell, Siblings: Judy Smith, Keith Russell, Alan Allred, Donetta Bowers, Kathy Broughton, Rory Russell, and Ric Russell. She was preceded in death by her Father, Cyrus Russell, her brother, Gary Russell, and her Grandson, Austin Lavender.

Raylene’s Funeral Services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints church building at 933 E. Brown Rd. In Mesa, AZ on Saturday, June 24th, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. and Cemetery Services held directly afterwards at the 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.

Robert MacIndoe, 68, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2023, in Mesa, Arizona after a brief illness.

He was born to Robert MacIndoe and Marilyn Atwater on 08/29/1954 at Lukes Airforce base in Glendale, Arizona.  He is survived by his wife Shelly, his darling sister Suzanne MacIndoe, his brother David Atwater, step-mother Lucy MacIndoe,  sister-in-laws Chris Nelson, Karina Atwater, nephew Hayden Atwater and nieces Hannah Swartz and Lyncon Atwater.

He was loved by his co-workers and friends.

Funeral services are Saturday, July 15^th at 2:00 PM at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa.

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.

LaNae Turley Norton passed away peacefully Sunday, June 18th 2023. She was born December 28th 1966 To Melvin Ronald Turley and Elena (Pratt) Turley. LaNae married her sweetheart, Gregg Webb Norton in the Mesa Temple on June 6, 1986 and they went on to have and raise five children. LaNae was know as a beacon of service and love among family and those in the community. Her free time was spent with her husband, children, and grandchild whom she loved dearly. LaNae had a pure love for music and she made sure to cultivate a home where music was a valued part of every day life. She was well known for her sense of humor and contagious laugh, whether it was playing with her grandchild or catching up with family or friends, her presence was one of warmth and kindness. When LaNae was not with her family she was serving in her callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She had a deep love and testimony of her Savior and the Gospel which she shared frequently with those around her. LaNae went out of her way to show her appreciation and gratitude to those in her life, even for the little things, always writing cards in her signature cursive penmanship. To know LaNae was to love her and to love her was such a gift.

LaNae is survived by her Husband, Gregg Webb Norton, her children and grandchild,  Audra Richards (Skylar Richards, Elodie Richards), Anna Stolworthy (Colton Stolworthy), James Norton, Jonathan Norton (Caitlynn Norton), Amanda Porter (Jason Porter).

LaNae is Preceded in death by her parents Melvin Ronald Turley and Elena Pratt Turley, and her brother Paul Russell Turley.

A funeral service is scheduled in Saint John’s Arizona, June 24th 2023 at 1:00 pm. The service will be held in the LDS chapel  at 35 W. Cleveland Street in Saint John’s Arizona. The family will hold a visitation in the relief society room at 12:00 pm prior to the funeral service for those who wish to attend.

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.

Marsha DeWitt Turk, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loved ones, on June 14, 2023. A daughter of Margaret and Frank DeWitt, born in Mesa, AZ on April 26, 1944, Marsha leaves behind a legacy of kindness, positivity, and service.

Marsha’s life was a testament to the power of embracing every moment with a joyful heart. Her warm and caring nature touched the lives of many, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. In 1986, she married Dean Turk, and their adventures brought them immeasurable joy throughout the years. Her unwavering love for her family was the cornerstone of her life, and her cherished daughter, Trecia Martinez (Stefan), grandchildren Bryce and Tauri; son, Bryan Payne, grandchildren Sarah, Tamera, and Brandon and great-grandchildren Bella and Cisco will forever hold her close in their hearts.

Marsha was blessed with the love and support of her sisters, Sharlene Bouldin, Deanne Gardner, Garna Randall, and Vicki Gephart. Together, they formed an unbreakable bond that only sisters can understand. Their shared memories, laughter, and care exemplify the enduring power of family.

Marsha’s vibrant spirit extended beyond her family and touched the lives of all who crossed her path. Marsha, a graduate of Mesa High School in 1962, delighted audiences as a talented Rabette. Her contagious school spirit knew no bounds, and even at the ripe age of 79, she never failed to amaze with her twirling prowess. She possessed an extraordinary ability to find beauty in the simplest of things, and her contagious optimism brightened even the cloudiest of days. Marsha was a pillar of strength, offering assistance and encouragement to those in need. Her infectious laughter and unwavering optimism served as a guiding light, reminding us all to treasure the present and embrace life’s blessings.

Marsha’s family invites friends to join them in a celebration of her life on Saturday, June 24^th, 2023, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Saints Stake Center, 613 N. Stewart, Mesa, AZ 85201. Visitation is at 10 am and funeral service begins at 11 am.

Marsha’s legacy will forever live on through the lives she touched, the love she shared, and the joy she spread. Though she may be physically absent, her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us.

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.

Patty Rae Younce Ottley, 84, passed away on June 18th, 2023, in Mesa, Arizona.   Patty was born on November 16, 1938, in Tremonton, Utah, the daughter of Ralph and Edna Hess Younce.  She graduated from Hillsboro High School in Hillsboro, Oregon, and attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, where she worked in the President’s Office.  Later, she worked for various law firms in Oregon.  Her outstanding skills made her an extraordinary secretary and legal assistant.

Patty married LeRoy Ottley in Hillsboro, Oregon, on September 20, 1958, and they were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple a month later in October for time and all eternity.  Together they raised a loving and close family of four sons. Pat’s most cherished love and priority in her life was her family.  Pat and Roy shared many interests and adventures together.  They enjoyed travels throughout Europe, to Israel, Egypt, Mexico, Central America, Samoa, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and all fifty states.

Pat was an avid reader and loved music.  She was a family history enthusiast, writing numerous journals of their family history, as well as enjoying FamilySearch indexing.

Pat was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sharing her talents and testimony throughout her life through stake and ward leadership and teaching callings in Relief Society and Primary.  She and Roy especially enjoyed serving together in the Portland Oregon Temple as ordinance workers for seventeen (17) years.  They were then called to the Fiji Suva Mission and served a church mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on the atoll of Tarawa in the Republic of Kiribati at Moroni High School.

Pat is survived by her husband, LeRoy; their three sons, Dean Todd (Shauna) of Mesa, Arizona, Robert Ray (Sandra) of Hillsboro, Oregon, and Cory Owen (Julie) of Bountiful, Utah; brothers, Geary Younce (Carol) of Fairfax, Virginia, and Doug Younce (Catherine) of Danville, California; sister-in-law Linda Empey (Charles) of Escondido, California; Carol Torrens (James) of Lehi, Utah; eleven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.   She was preceded in death by their son, Randall Leroy (Connie), her parents and a grandson.

At her request, a graveside service will be held at Fir Lawn Cemetery, Hillsboro, Oregon, where she will be laid to rest near their son, Randy, and her parents.

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.

Most knew our mother as Juanita.  She has always been the epitome of her name which means, “God is gracious”.  Tuesday, June 13, 2023, her 83rd birthday, she peacefully joined her pre-deceased eternal companion, Roland M. “Bill” Washburn, and their son, Matthew.  The other 8 living children and many other family members were near to witness her cross the veil and immediately be greeted by loving family, friends, and creatures blessed to know her here on earth.

Juanita was born on Thursday, June 13, 1940, to Elaine Opal Patterson of Kentucky and her father, Claire William Abbott of Colorado.  She is the oldest of three siblings; survived by her sister, Jeraldine Deymonaz and predeceased by her brother, Michael Stephen Abbott (deceased October 3, 1986).

Juanita spent her youth in eastern Washington loving and caring for animals.  This love and care continued throughout her life and now through her legacy.  She joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at seventeen and never looked back. Several years later, she met Roland Washburn in late December 1962 and fell in love.  They were sealed in the LDS Logan Temple in Logan, Utah on February 12, 1963.

Juanita and Bill have nine children plus their spouses: Matthew (deceased March 10, 1964), Cindy & Jeff Brannen, Becky & Bryan Heward, Bill & Tina, Dan & Michelle, Sarah & Ed Ulrich, Tim & Karla, James & Marianne, and Mary & Wes Filhart. There are thirty grandchildren; predeceased by Waylon (deceased March 13, 2008), plus five great-grandchildren.

No doubt her favorite accomplishment was having her family close to her, close to each other, and close to God. She lived and taught her family to live faithful to God, believe in the plan of happiness, and endure to the end. Anyone that knew her knows that she graciously patterned her life by “enduring it well”; all the way to the end of her days!  Juanita exemplified to all she met that eternal progress can be achieved by and through our Savior, Jesus Christ.

“First and foremost, if I write nothing else, am known for nothing else, I would that you would know I loved my Savior Jesus Christ my whole life. I believe in Him, my hope is always in Him; my strength is always through Him.”

• Juanita Washburn

Viewing:

Friday, June 23 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bunkers Funeral Home, 33 Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201

Receiving Line to Express Condolences to Family

Saturday, June 24 from 9-10 a.m. at the LDS Church Building, 1415 E Southern Ave., Mesa, AZ 85204

Funeral

Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m. at the LDS Church Building, 1415 E Southern Ave., Mesa, AZ 85204

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Edwin Long, 96, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2023 in Gilbert, Arizona.  He was born in Bay Minette, Alabama to Lois and Walter Long on January 21, 1927. They relocated to the Miami, Arizona area when Ed was 3.  Athletics was a driving force in Ed’s life.  He played multiple sports at Miami HS and was a standout basketball player for 4 years at ASU.  He coached basketball at Glendale, Phoenix Tech, Phoenix Union and Phoenix College.  His proudest moments were leading his PU teams to 4 State Championships in 5 years.  Ed spent the last 23 years of his career as the Athletic Director for the Phoenix Union High School System. Part of that time his job included Boys Athletics, Girls Athletics, Marching Band, Pom and Cheer and Special Ed.   In retirement, Ed spent time helping his parents before their passing and working on the many Miami High School Reunion of Classes and the Miami Sports Hall of Fame.

Ed touched many lives during his career, especially those that he coached. He was picked to be the first basketball coach when Carver High School and Phoenix Union High School integrated.  It was a divisive time in our country and Ed was always there to back his players of all color, even if it wasn’t the popular thing to do.   One player said that at a critical time in our lives, Coach Long was one of the few white men to even come into our neighborhoods to help us young men out. Many of his players credit Coach Long for shaping them into the successful men they became.  They have said that without his help and guidance in pursuing colleges and careers, their lives would have gone down a much different path.

He met the love of his life, Cheryl Nix, when they were freshmen at ASU.  Ed and Cheryl were married in 1947 after Ed’s service in the navy during WWII.  They were blessed with two daughters, Cheryl Partridge (Scott) and Carolyn Guptill (Gene).  They instilled a love for travel in their family, especially to their favorite Hawaiian destinations.   Ed and Cheryl were married for almost 75 years until Cheryl’s passing last year.  Ed was preceded in death by his parents, sister Maxine and beloved wife.  He is survived by his daughters, seven grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 1, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Mountain View Stake Center – 1550 N. Val Vista Dr., Mesa, Arizona.  A viewing will be held at the chapel on June 30^th from 6-8pm.  A private burial will precede the funeral.

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.