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Carol Ann (Adams) May, 76, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and Chief Executive Officer and Chair, Board of Directors of Wisdom Natural Brands® (makers of SweetLeaf® Sweeteners), returned to her Heavenly Father on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, surrounded by her family in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Carol was born on July 31, 1945, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She then moved with her family, at age 15, to Phoenix, Arizona. Two years later, Carol was awarded a scholarship to study acting in New York City. Her lifelong passion was the love of theater. However, fate stepped in when Carol met the love of her life, James May. The two married at the Mesa Arizona Temple on November 22, 1963, and her future with James began. The couple shared a lifetime of love. Together they had six children: David, James Jr., Steve, Michael, Shannon, and Erin.  Although she had a full house, Carol was accomplished with her education. She graduated with a B.A. in Psychology, Magna Cum Laude from Arizona State University; M.A. in Education, Summa Cum Laude, Northern Arizona University; M.C. Professional Degree in Counseling Psychology, Magna Cum Laude, Arizona State University. In 1985, Carol joined her husband at Wisdom Natural Brands (now in Gilbert, Arizona) and together they built an international company doing business in over 50 countries.

Carol has been recognized with five international Stevie Awards for Women in Business in both 2014 and 2015, (including Lifetime Achievement, Entrepreneur of the Year, Executive of the Year in Business, Lifetime Achievement and Entrepreneur of the Year in Consumer Products).  Carol was named one of the Top Women in Grocery in 2013 by Progressive Grocer Magazine, to the Arizona State University Sun Devil 100 during 2017 and 2019, and into the ASU President’s Club in 2019. Carol was inducted (with her husband) into the prestigious Natural Products Industry Hall of Legends in 2016. She was recognized as one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Arizona by AZ Business Magazine in 2015, and one of the Most Admired Leaders of Arizona in 2019.

As an ambassador for health and wellness, Carol enjoyed participating in the Dean’s Council of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, Arizona State University, and partnering with their Department of Psychology in developing prevention research pertaining to the intake of dietary sugars in order to reduce cardiovascular risk. Carol served on the American Heart Association’s Industry Nutrition Advisory Forum. She represented her company in the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and served on the Board of Directors in the East Valley Partnership. In the past, she has served as a member of the Calorie Control Council and the Women’s Alliance, both international groups, and has been active in state and regional programs for children and families, as well as children’s hospitals.

Carol focused on improving the quality of life for others. She had a love of family history and was a member of the Arizona State Genealogy Association. Her commitment to family, company, and community were tireless. Over the years, Carol served on the ASU Psychology for Life Advisory Board; Banner Health, Pediatric Advisory Council; Regional Advisory Board on Metabolic Testing of Infants; Advisory Board to the AZ Department of Education on Chronically Ill Children; Member of the Advisory Board to AZ Department of Health (Children’s Division); Member of Maricopa County Medical Society committee on Pediatrics; Advisory Board for the Food and Beverage Industry; Member in the Organization of Women in International Trade; Member of the American Herbal Products Association; Member of the Institute of Food Technology and the National Specialty Food Association; and in various volunteer positions in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Carol was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother and a beloved friend to many, near and far. She will be remembered as a never-tiring, always-focused business leader, community advocate, and Wisdom Natural Brands® ambassador of health and well-being.  Her company’s products give consumers the tools to make enjoyable, better-for-you dietary choices to meet the needs of busy lifestyles. Carol’s legacy will always be remembered as being committed to being a part of everyone’s journey to live a longer, healthier, and happier life.

She is survived by her sons, Steve and Michael (Christine), and daughters, Shannon (Jay) and Erin, and 7 grandchildren: Nathaniel, Emily, Andrew, Daniel, Jonathan, Chloe, and Julia.

A celebration of her life and legacy will be held on Monday, August 16, 2021. The morning will start with 9am Visitation, 9:45am Family Prayer, 10am Memorial Service, and 11am Luncheon for family and close friends at the LDS Church on 2835 E Des Moines St., Mesa, AZ 85213 with graveside service at Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery, Phoenix AZ.

John David Gephart, 61, passed away Tuesday, August 3, 2021, in Mesa, Arizona.  He was born April 21, 1960, in Mesa and was a lifelong resident of Chandler.

John graduated from Chandler High School in 1978. After high school he served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Guatemala City, Guatemala, where he learned to speak Spanish and developed a strong love of the people.

John worked for many years in the construction and microchip manufacturing industries, where he earned a reputation as a reliable employee and coworker.  He was known for making friends with whomever he met and will be remembered for his sense of humor and infectious laugh.

John was a lover of history and was extremely well read in the subject.  He was an avid collector of books and wargame miniatures.  He was an expert with firearms and enjoyed hunting and target shooting – activities he loved to share with others.

John’s cheerful personality and sense of humor made him a favorite among family members — especially his nieces and nephews.  He loved to talk about books, movies, history, and recount the many hunting trips he took with his father and friends.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Jean Rood and Nelda Watkins Gephart.  He is survived by his brother Robert (Rebeca) and his sister Linda Castillo (Merril), and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 11, 2021, at 10am, with a viewing at 9am, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Ray 2^nd Ward, 1115 E. Ray Road, Chandler, Arizona. Interment at Mesa Cemetery will follow.  Arrangements are being handled by Bunker Family Funerals, Mesa, Arizona.

Gerald “Jerry” Bellows

Jerry Bellows, 72, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 4th, 2021, at home listening to CCR surrounded by family as he lost his battle with Cancer.

He was born in Detroit, Michigan April 1^st, 1949, and moved to Mesa, Arizona in the 1950’s.

He attended West Wood High School and graduated in 1965.

Jerry joined the United States Army as a mechanic at 18 and served from (1968-1971)

He was a Crew Chief, flying in a UH-1 Huey helicopter with the 240^th Assault Helicopter Company called Greyhounds. He was in Vietnam from 1969-1970.

Jerry enjoyed life and people and was always quick to start a conversation or make a new friend. He laughed a lot and so did the people around him. He loved a good story or joke and loved a good scare.

He married Rhonda in September of 1986, they had a great life and many adventures raising 3 children together, and some bonus kids along the way. They had a strong family bond that remains that way to this day.

Jerry was many things in life and among them he was a Husband, Father, Grandfather, soldier, surveyor, mechanic, entrepreneur, truck driver, boy scout leader, cub scout leader, Harley Davidson motorcycle rider and avid Camper.

He loved being outdoors and was an avid camper going with family and friends whenever he could. The White mountains in Arizona were one of his favorite spots.

He had a trucking company named Bellows & Sons and worked for Sunkist for years- His First Truck was a Kenworth and was known as the “Green Bean” on CB radio through the 1980’s and 90’s; He was always willing and able to help fellow truckers stuck on the highways or anywhere else for that matter, if he had it to give it was yours.

Jerry was preceded in death by his father, John Bellows (1987), mother, Geraldine Bellows (2010) and Brother John (2011).

Jerry is survived by his wife of 35 years Rhonda (Rickard), son, Christopher, daughters Jennifer, and Cynthia; with grand-children, Gaige, Nola Meadow and Ryder. Surviving family members include his brothers, Rick, Terry, and Russell Bellows.

Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, August 14th, 2021, at 10am at

Bunker’s Garden Chapel in Mesa, Arizona at 1111 Centennial Way Mesa AZ 85201

The Family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to

DAV – Disabled American Veterans (a favorite charity of Jerry’s)

His Burial will be held at The National Cemetery on Monday August 16^th, 2021, at 10am

23029 N Cave Creek Rd Phoenix, AZ 85024

Mellissa Brown, 58, passed away peacefully on July 30th, 2021, surrounded by her family in Mesa, Arizona. Mellissa was born in Bountiful, Utah, on April 10th, 1963. She was loved by many and was a light to those who knew her. One of her greatest accomplishments was becoming a registered nurse; before that, Mellissa worked as a certified dietician. She also enjoyed camping and fishing with her husband Eric, tending to her garden with her grandchildren, and spending time at the beach collecting shells. Mellissa had a steadfast testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and believed strongly in the power of prayer. In 1984, she married and was sealed to her sweetheart, Eric Jay Brown, in the Seattle Washington temple. Together they raised three beautiful kids: Nachelle, Natalie, and Joshua. Mellissa is survived by her mother, Carole Randall, siblings Jenny, Susan, Robert, and Katie, husband Eric, their three children Nachelle (Justin) Sampson, Natalie (Ben) Heywood, and Joshua (Haley Jones) Brown, as well as five grandchildren and three granddogs. She will be deeply missed by her family. They know she is in heaven, playing with her beloved dog Teela, and looking forward to the day when they are reunited as an eternal family. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 12th at 10:00am, preceded by a viewing at 9:00am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel at 6942 E. Brown Road, Mesa, Arizona 85207. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Bunker Family Funerals.

Bruce Mannes, 90, passed away July 30, 2021, in Mesa, AZ. He was born in Aberdeen, South Dakota to Arthur Mannes and Stella Rosenthal. As a young man he attended Shattuck Prep School in Faribault, MN where he participated on the hockey team and had the opportunity to attend the 1947 Boy Scout Jamboree in France as an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Northern State College with an undergraduate and master’s degree in education and moved to Blythe, California where he met and married Elaine Gibby on April 9, 1955.

Bruce started his work career as a schoolteacher in Blythe, CA and then became a school superintendent in Strandburg, South Dakota. He took a new job with the Chrysler Corporation that took his family to Minneapolis, MN. During this time Bruce & Elaine would have three children and added two more after moving to Aberdeen, SD. While in Aberdeen, Elaine started her Shaklee business with Bruce joining her full time. This business is now over 50 years old and is still going strong today with their children at the helm. The Shaklee business provided them with many opportunities to travel the world and help others build their own Shaklee business.

The Shaklee business allowed Bruce to do what he enjoyed most, meeting new people, and traveling. He loved to shop, and he liked a good restaurant. His favorite place to travel was New York City. He loved seeing Broadway shows, catching up with friends over dinner and seeing sights. Other favorite trips were to The Great Wall of China, the English countryside by train, going thru the Panama Canal and seeing a grandson’s hockey team play for a national title.

Bruce was preceded in death by his wife, Elaine, and his half-brother Bob Smilo. He is survived by his 5 children: Dr. Bruce (Carrie) Mannes, Carla Mannes, Dave (Lisa) Mannes, Sara (Shane) Buntrock and Amy Mannes with 12 grand-children and 9 great grandchildren. He also leaves behind half siblings Susan Sands, Sandra Dunie, Gary Greenberg, and Harriet Greenberg Harris.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (ALZ.org) or Shaklee Cares (https://go.shaklee.com/shaklee-cares/)

Visitation will be Thursday, August 5, 2021, from 5:00p- 7:00p at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona 85201 followed by a private family burial Friday, August 6, 2021.

Megan Marie (Sanderson) Chavez passed away on July 28, 2021. She was born on September 8, 1976, in Greely, Colorado. The daughter of William and Phyllis Sanderson. She married Eloy Chavez May 25, 2000. Megan’s home family life revolved around her husband Eloy and her fur babies, Xena, and Pablo. She was best friends and shared many memories with her sister Tobie.

She was an endlessly creative and resourceful person. Her quilts, crafts, and sewing projects are a testament to her artistic soul. Megan enjoyed supporting her niece Abry and nephew Isaiah their sports, academics, and hobbies.

Survivors include her husband Eloy, her parents William and Phyllis Sanderson, sister Tobie Sanderson, brother Arthur Sanderson, nieces Abry Fuentes, Andrea Sanderson, Samantha Perella, and her nephew Isaiah Fuentes.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents William Sanderson Sr., Anna Sanderson, Ivan Sutter, Alice Sutter, and her brother Alan Sanderson.

We honor Megan by remembering her infectious laugh, grace to others, and perseverance in times of hardship. She was a resilient double kidney transplant, a warrior who fought as long as her body could endure.

In lieu of flower please donate to the Be Like Josh Foundation, a rescue organization for dogs with special needs. www.belikejosh.org

Or Transplant Community Alliance www.aplos.com/aws/give/transplantaz/donate

Bradley Duane Taylor, age 59, passed away peacefully at Banner Baywood Hospital in Mesa, Arizona from complications of a stroke. He was the son of James D and Karen J Taylor, born on March 4, 1962 in Mitchell South Dakota. Brad worked for WR Grace Inc. of Olathe Kansas for over twenty years. Then he worked for Geiger Ready Mix of Leavenworth, Kansas for two years. His Kansas working days ended at Olathe school district when he left the cold winters and lawn mowing to go to Mesa, Arizona. He was employed at World Wide Flight Services with Allegiant Airlines at Phoenix- Mesa Gateway Airport. Brad enjoyed working with the entertainment industry at the American Royal, Iowa State Fair and South Dakota State Fair. He loved great BBQ and volunteered at the American Royal BBQ yearly. He was a member of Gardner Masonic Lodge No. 65 of Kansas and was a Past Master. Brad was an Abdallah Shriner of Overland Park, Kansas who participated in the Tin Lizzies. He was very active as a fundraiser for the Shrine Rodeo. Brad loved to work with motors and enjoyed racing dwarf cars. Brad truly loved being with family and traveled many miles to South Dakota, Minnesota, Illinois, and Kansas to catch up on all the news and give hugs. In 1990 he married Christie Huslig. They later divorced but remained good friends through the years. He is survived by parents, James and Karen Taylor and sons Colby (Kristen McKenzie) and Bryce (Brooke) Taylor, sister Kim (Mike) Staley, nephew Michael (Joni) Staley, great-niece AR (Autumn Rose) and a huge family who will miss him dearly. In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations be given in Brad’s name to the American Diabetes Association and the Shriners Hospital or any charity you wish. Please join friends and family at a celebration of life at Velda Rose United Methodist Church, 5540 E. Main St., Mesa, AZ, at 10:00 AM, August 3, 2021 with meal following.

James John Farley, age 42, born in Mesa, AZ but most recently resided in Phoenix, AZ passed away suddenly on July 20th 2021. James was the son of Thomas Patrick Farley Jr. and Linda Dale Farley. He is the 3rd youngest sibling and brother to Thomas Patrick Farley III, Patricia Lynn Farley, and Linda Marie Farley.

No-one loved a party more than James. He was engaging, smart, funny, told tall tales, and a friend to many. He was truly gifted with charm, charisma, and was quick on his feet. James’s family truly loved him and James loved his family. James had a special bond with his father, Thomas Patrick Farley Jr., who gave him the nickname “smoke”.

James is survived by his three siblings and his 6 beautiful and amazing children: Kaitlynn, Makaila, James, Liam, Kamdyn, and Kartyr.

Billy Ray Reynolds, self-proclaimed AIO (Arizona-improved Okie), graduated from this life on July 26.  Bill loved his family and friends, and the Lord; he loved making people happy with a helping hand, a story or joke, and never met a stranger.

Billy Ray was born on July 10, 1938 in Stratford, Oklahoma to Mance Hailey Reynolds and Beatrice Burnett.  He was the second of four children; he doted on his baby sisters and adored his mom and his grandma Maggie Burnett, who helped raised him.

His early years were spent in Oklahoma.  His love of hunting, fishing, and the outdoors was born tagging along with his mom’s brothers and uncles, and an assortment of cousins.  He learned love of family and the value of hard work from his Burnett relatives and working with his mom, stepdad Milton Roberts, and other family members picking fruit in the summers in Arizona and California.  He and his mom joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Arizona; he was a faithful member the rest of his life.

He graduated from Tempe High School.  After a few years farming citrus, cowboying, and rodeoing, he served a two-and-a-half-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Southwest Indian Mission.  He went on to serve roughly two years in the United States Army.

Bill was a master carpenter – he could build anything anyone could imagine – and had an uncommon green thumb – he could grow anything.  He worked as an appraiser and building inspector for Farmers Home Administration in Arizona; helped run citrus orchards at the Deseret Ranches in Florida; and worked as a carpenter at Apache Powder Company in St. David, Arizona.

Bill married the love of his life, Arlyce Mynoa Merritt, and they enjoyed 53 years together, including serving an 18-month mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Kentucky Louisville Mission based in Robinson, Illinois.  His greatest happiness was his family and proudest legacy was his daughter and six sons and their spouses – Arlissa; Brawner and Melissa; Olen and Molly; Haskel and Valerie; Clar and Kristen; Madison and Leena; and Houston and Cara, his 32 grandchildren and their spouses, and his great-granddaughter.  Spending time with his family was always a top priority from camping, hunting, and fishing to roadtripping to weeding the garden, and doing honey-do-this jobs.  He sacrificed all for his family’s happiness.

Services will be held Saturday, August 7^th, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Mesa South Stake Building at 2334 E. Pueblo Avenue (9 a.m. viewing and 10 a.m. funeral).  The funeral services will be shared via Zoom A viewing will be held from 6-8 p.m., Friday, August 6^th at the Bunker Family Garden Chapel at 33 N. Centennial Way in Mesa.  A graveside service will be held at the Virden Cemetery in Virden, New Mexico.  For details, please contact a member of the Reynolds Family.  The funeral services on August 7th will be shared via Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/92679461756?pwd=dlZXb1J5bVRhQTNRVUdaYnd5R3NQUT09

Meeting ID:  926 7946 1756

Passcode:  096984

Brian Arthur O’Barr, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend passed away July 22, 2021 in Mesa, AZ surrounded by his family.

Brian was born in Mesa, AZ on March 23, 1961 to Joseph Arthur and Flora Maud “Mickey” O’Barr. He spent a happy, active childhood surrounded by many siblings, foster siblings, and cousins who were welcomed into his parents’ home. As Brian grew he participated in gymnastics, developed a lifelong appreciation for beautiful music, and eventually apprenticed as an electrician for his dad’s company.

Brian married his sweetheart and eternal companion, Jana Maria Goulding, on April 21, 1979 in the Mesa Arizona Temple. He graduated from Mesa High School one month later. Together they raised 9 children. He regularly told his wife, children, and grandchildren how much joy they brought him. He strongly believed in reading and education and encouraged his children to study and develop skills – always telling them along the way that they “could do anything they put their mind to” in life. Brian worked as a residential electrician until he injured his back on the job in 1990 and, with 7 children by that time, decided to pursue an Associate’s Degree in Computer Design. After he received his degree he worked as both an electrician and electrical designer in the infrastructure, commercial, cellular, and solar industries.

Brian was constantly inventing and innovating. He was a talented artist and designer and obtained his first patent in 2017. He was always happy to do electrical work on the side for friends and family.

Brian was known to tease those he loved. He had a ready laugh and mischievous grin that is remembered fondly by his family and friends. Brian loved music and continually found beautiful songs to play for his family. He loved his country and instilled that love in all of his children. He also loved and was proud of his Irish and Scottish heritage. He was a historian of world war history and an avid collector of antique wartime memorabilia.

Brian loved his Savior Jesus Christ. Through the years he faithfully served two stake missions along with many other callings as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was especially passionate about family history work, seeking out connections with distant relatives, and helping others discover their own family ties. He was unfailingly kind to friends and strangers alike and quick to serve others. He was especially mindful of older people, widows, and those who were lonely. His generosity and ability to freely forgive were an inspiration. He was truly a friend to all.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mickey, his oldest brother, Mike, and his daughter, Amanda.

He is survived by his wife, Jana, and his children: Rachel Falevai (Poasi), Fawn Mortensen (Devon), Joseph O’Barr (Heather), Jessica Waller, Tamara Hessing (Scott), Heather Sims (Shad), Dillon O’Barr (Kelsey), Kavan O’Barr, and Calista O’Barr. He is also survived by his 27 grandchildren and by his siblings Becky Salib (Eddie), Kevin O’Barr (Sabrina), Cathy Coulter (Jimmy), Martha Morgan, Mark O’Barr (Laura) and sister-in-law, Debbie O’Barr. Also by those he loved as sisters: Virgie Jones (Herbert), Elisa Baloo (Al), Charlotte Wallis (Stan), and Sally Baker (Jason).

A viewing will be held Friday, July 30, 2021 from 6-8 pm at Bunker Family Funeral Home University Chapel at 3529 E University Dr., Mesa, AZ 85213. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, July 31, 2021 at the Alta Mesa Stake Center, located at 5350 E McLellan Rd. The funeral will be preceded by a viewing from 9:30-10:15 am also at the church. His body will be laid to rest at the Mesa Cemetery.

For those unable to attend in person who would like to attend virtually, the funeral will be streamed on ZOOM at the link below:

https://zoom.us/j/94744406990?pwd=UXphSjdZWkx3Q3kwczJFUER2ci9kUT09

Passcode: 675134

We would love if you would share a memory of Brian in the comments below.

Roberto Salas, 66, passed away peacefully on July 2nd, 2021 in Mesa Arizona. He was born in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua Mexico on January 2, 1955. Roberto was the oldest of thirteen siblings.  He was the son of Irma and Roberto Salas. Roberto was known for being a hardworking man who was always willing to help others to a better future by showing them means of hard work and perseverance. Roberto started working at a very young age to help his family.   Roberto installed gorgeous hardwood floors at universities, high schools, middle schools, malls, and residential homes in many states for over thirty years. He will be truly missed by his family and his many friends.

Roberto is survived by his wife, Maria Salas; children, Lily Calvillo, Alfredo Salas, Roberto C Salas, Lizbeth Arnold.  Eleven grandchildren: Lilia, Abigail, Tamara, Jorge, Angelina, Daniella, Zoe, Levi, Violet, Sophia and Olivia.

Funeral services are Saturday, July 31, 2021 at 10:30 AM, preceded by a visitation at 9:30 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1852 N. Staple, Mesa, AZ 85203. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Colby Paul Ellsworth, of Mesa, Arizona passed away peacefully on July 22, 2021 at home with family. Colby was born on January 21, 2000 in Potomac Falls, Virginia. He is the sixth child of Cory and Amy Ellsworth, entering this life a few minutes after his twin brother, Cade. Colby dealt bravely with the effects of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Colby graduated from Mountain View High School in 2018. He served a Service Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the Mesa Family History Record Operations Center and the Gilbert Temple. He loved his assignments and was loved in return. Colby studied a few semesters at Mesa Community College.

Despite a challenging body, Colby was always upbeat and never uttered a word of complaint about his life. He said, “I’ve enjoyed every minute of my life” and his daily walk (or roll, considering he moved about in a power wheelchair since he was eight years old) proved that he truly believed that. He had the sweetest of demeanors and an excellent and unpredictable sense of humor.  Colby was brave and heroic. His parting leaves a gaping hole in the fabric of his family and friends. But Colby and his family believe in the continuation of life and of the reality of a Father in Heaven and a loving Savior and that this parting will only be temporary.

Colby leaves behind his parents, Cory and Amy Ellsworth, his sisters, Atley Heath (Camden) and Emily Nicoll (Brigham), his brother, Cade (Summer), and other beloved relatives. Preceding him in death were his brothers, Ethan, and Ben.

Colby’s funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 31, 2021 at the Mesa East Stake Center, located at 2228 E. Brown Road. The funeral will be preceded by a viewing at the same location at 9 a.m..

Ronald (Ronnie) Charles Brewer, age 80, graduated this life to be with family and friends on the other side of the veil on Wednesday morning, July 21, 2021 in his home in Queen Creek, Az. Ronnie was born in Snowflake, AZ on August 9, 1940, to Lee and Irene Brewer. He was the 3rd child of nine and grew up in a hard working logging family. He enjoyed growing up in Pinedale and Snowflake with his brothers and sisters.

In High School, Ronnie was class Student Body President as a Senior. He loved athletics and played on the football team, basketball team and baseball team. He attended ASU, and EAU. He loved playing ”ball” and had many stories to tell about those days. Ronnie served a Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in the Houston Texas Mission and continued to serve in any calling he was asked.

Ronnie married Carma Anne McCleve on December 20, 1969, in the Mesa Temple. They raised four wonderful children together, Bryan, Aaron, Veronica and Jennifer. He was the Grandpa to twelve Grandchildren. He absolutely loved his grandbabies and was the best babysitter. Ronnie is survived by his wife, Carma, and children Bryan (Bridget), Aaron, Veronica (Jesse), and Jennifer (Aaron). He leaves behind his grandchildren Braxton, Kaylee, Nathan, Noah, Charlie, Olivia, Rebecca, Brayden, Brooklyn, Tanner, McKay, and Levi.

Ronnie’s greatest joy was his family.  His entire life was devoted to fulfilling his duty as father and husband to preside, protect, and provide for his wife and children.  He taught them the principles of the gospel including faith, prayer, repentance, respect, compassion, and hard work.  Side by side with his eternal companion Carma, Ronnie was deeply rooted in the gospel with an unshakable testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ, which testimony and example they instilled in their children and grandchildren.  Ronnie rejoiced in his children’s successes and accomplishments.

Ronnie’s family would like to thank his many friends, relatives, business partners, neighbors, local ward and stake, Church leadership, and many others who have touched his and our lives and offered their support and condolences at this time.

Ronnie will be remembered in a Celebration of his Life on Tuesday, July 27, 2021 A family viewing will be in the morning of Tuesday, July 27 from at the Queen Creek Stake Center @ 10am.  Funeral services will be @ 11am, immediately following the viewing at the same location. Queen Creek Stake Center | 21915 e. Cloud Rd. Queen Creek, AZ 85142.

Additionally, Graveside services will proceed the following day on Wednesday, July 28, 2021 in Snowflake, Arizona @ 11am for service and graveside dedication. Snowflake Cemetery | 81 West 1st South Snowflake, AZ 85937

Ronnie will be dearly missed until that unimaginably joyful day when we are all reunited.

Leona Fairbourn Turley passed away July 23, 2021 in Mesa, Arizona. Leona was born October 7, 1926 in Crescent, Utah, the second of eight children born to Alma and Ora Whitmore Fairbourn. She graduated from Jordan High School in 1944. Being awarded a nation 4-H scholarship, she attended Utah State Agricultural College. While there she met and married her husband, Jay Turley, December 20, 1946. She later attended Brigham Young University where she graduated Cum Laude with an elementary teaching certificate. With her husband she helped develop a student tutoring program which was introduced in Texas and many eastern states. She was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving as an MIA President, teacher in many organizations and as a Relief Society President in 4 different wards and 2 different stakes. She served as a temple worker for 30 years in the Mesa Arizona Temple. She is survived by a son, Brent Jay Turley and a daughter, Gayle Harris, 6 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. A daughter, Cindy Turley, preceded her in death. The viewing will be Thursday, July 29, 2021 from 5-7 PM at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona. Graveside services will be held Friday, July 30, 2021 at 1 PM at the Snowflake Cemetery, Snowflake, Arizona.

Carol Smith (67) peacefully passed away on July 17, 2021 after a short struggle with cancer. Carol entered the world on December 2, 1953 in Phoenix, AZ.  Her life began in the loving family of Marion and Wanda (Turley) Smith, the fourth of seven children.  She grew up in east Phoenix on a five-acre horse property with room to run and roam.  Her siblings were her playmates and best friends.

As Carol’s father was a veterinarian, her love of animals was developed from birth.  The family had a continually changing collection of pets and exotic animals.  With a gentle Calico cat birthing several litters of kittens when Carol was young, she had a constant supply of little playmates to dress in doll clothes and snuggle.  Throughout her life she rescued or rehabilitated many animals, finding good homes for them.  Her personal pets included an African Grey parrot and several beloved cats.

After graduating from Arcadia High School (Phoenix) in 1971, Carol had an opportunity to travel to Europe with her brother, Norm, some cousins and other high school friends.  They toured six countries in five weeks.  This whetted her appetite to see the world.

Carol pursued higher education to become a nurse.  Early in her career, she donated her vacation time to work with a humanitarian organization that traveled into many Spanish speaking countries.  She became fluent in Spanish and used it throughout her career as a nurse, especially when she worked in the emergency room at the Maricopa county hospital.  She traveled to the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and many regions of Mexico and Central America, loving the people and cultures of each country.

In 1987 Carol’s adventurous appetite took her to Saudi Arabia to work at an English-speaking hospital that served the royal family.  Working with an international group of doctors and medical professionals, she gained valuable tips that aided the planning of trips throughout the Middle East and then all over the world.  She especially loved to “rough it” and stay in youth hostels or cheap hotels as she explored some of the most remote places on earth.

Carol had an innate love of all cultures and people, especially drawn to the archaeology of the ancient world and the people of third world countries.  On each return to visit the family in the States, she was the bearer of exotic and carefully chosen personal gifts for her parents, siblings, in-laws, and each of her twenty-eight nieces and nephews.

Carol retired in Mesa, Arizona in 2014 after almost 27 years of life in the Middle East.  By the time she was 60 she had traveled to upwards of 100 countries on 6 continents.  Her home was like an exotic museum with furnishings and artifacts from all over the world.

Carol’s last seven years were spent serving her community and church as a true disciple of Jesus Christ.  She served in Mesa as a local missionary and taught in her congregation on Sunday as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  She ministered weekly to people she loved at an assisted living center near her home.  Carol took over the shopping, errands and care of her 95-year-old mother during the past few years, as they lived near each other and enjoyed their time together.

Carol is survived by her mother, siblings:  David (Judy) Smith, Susan (Wayne) LeSueur, Jennifer (Chuck) Adair, Norman (Marianne) Smith, Spencer (Jennifer) Smith, Brian (Carrie) Smith, and twenty-eight loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 28 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Bunker Mortuary, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona, 85201.  A private family interment will be held at the City of Mesa Cemetery on Thursday morning, July 29. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 29 at 2:00 pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1852 North Stapley Drive, Mesa, Arizona.  Friends may visit with the family prior to the service at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers consider donations to the Humanitarian Fund that Carol supported that administers aid to all countries at the link below:

https://philanthropies.churchofjesuschrist.org/humanitarian-services

James Wilson Waite Jr, 82, passed away at Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa, Arizona, on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. James (Jim/Jimmy) was born in St. Johns, Arizona, on March 4th, 1939, to Emily Lucinda Bigelow and James Wilson Waite Sr. James graduated from Mesa High School in 1958 and married Josephine McElhaney on September 11, 1959, in the Arizona Temple. They had four children.

James was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and kind brother. James worked over 30 years in the drywall construction business. He worked at a very young age working in construction with his dad and brothers.  And at one time he had his own drywall construction business. In his lifetime he lived in Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and Nevada.  When he was younger, he worked in the mines and was a butcher for one of the local grocery stores. James loved to garden, was an avid genealogist and enjoyed watching western movies, especially John Wayne. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

James was preceded in death by; Winnie Annie Josephine (Josie) McElhaney (Wife), Deann Laura Arney (Daughter), and Joseph Cruz Maldonado (Grandson).

James is survived by; daughter, Debbie (Aaron) Maldonado; son, Kevin (Jenell) Waite; son, Troy (Jessie) Waite; James is additionally survived by 17 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

James is also survived by his brother, LaVerl Waite and sister, Linda (Roger Childers) Wood; sister in-law, Geri Waite; sister in-law, Brenda Waite; sister in-law, Julienne McElhaney; sister in-law, Cindy McElhaney.

The funeral service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1050 S. Hobson, Mesa, AZ on Saturday, July 24, 2021, at 11:00 AM, , with a viewing starting at 10:00 AM. The interment will follow at the City of Mesa Cemetery.