Thompson Funeral ChapelObituaries
Although your loved one or friend is no longer here in person, they will forever be in our hearts. Find their name, and sign the guest book with a fond memory or note for their family. All comments are moderated and will be posted after review. Obituaries are updated Monday – Friday, 9am to 4pm.
Gary Ludwig
Gary Ludwig, 86, passed away July 22, 2022 at home in Pebble Creek after fighting Multiple Myeloma for eight years. He leaves behind his wife, Karen Ludwig, daughter Beth Streeter, son and daughter-in-law Dr. Bryan and Elisabeth Ludwig, three grandchildren, Simon Streeter, Zachary Ludwig and Julia Ludwig. He is survived by his sister Shirley Brown, and his nieces and nephews-in-law, Cindy and Tom Pugh and Jill and Andrew McIntyre.
Gary was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa and spent his early years in Fort Dodge and Des Moines, Iowa. He attended Northwestern University for two years then graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering. He began his career at Procter and Gamble but was called up for service in the Air Force as a Captain. After four years in the Air Force, he decided to stay on as a civilian at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in the research and development department. He went on to get his MBA at Ohio State University and later worked on a Master’s in Electrical Engineering.
It was during his time at Ohio State that he met his wife Karen, who was just beginning college as an adult student. They married after she graduated and lived in Beavercreek, Ohio. They had two children; both also graduates of Ohio State.
Gary retired at the Senior Executive Service level in 1994, and he and Karen traveled the world for the next 20 years seeing six different continents. They were snowbirds in Arizona for many years and have been permanent residents for three years.
Gary was a tennis player and enjoyed the camaraderie of the drop-in men’s tennis group. He was also an avid HAM radio operator and member. In his middle years, he enjoyed taking his family camping, boating, and on many family vacations all over the world. He left a wonderful legacy through his family ad will be remembered always. We send him on with love and peace.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made in Gary Ludwig’s name to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation at 383 Main Avenue, 5th Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851.
Memorial services will be held in Dayton, Ohio.
Dr. Lloyd Herbert Kloppe, DVM, DACT
Dr. Lloyd Herbert Kloppe, DVM, DACT passed away peacefully at his home in Buckeye, Arizona on Sunday, July 24th, twelve days after his 67th birthday. He was surrounded by loving family and friends. Lloyd was the son of Herbert and Pauline Kloppe and was raised in New Haven, Missouri. He is survived by wife Jana, son Bryan, daughter-in-law Amy, granddaughter Taylor, siblings Barb Scheer, her husband Ralph, Larry Kloppe, his wife Lana, Wayne Kloppe, his wife Kathy as well as many loving nieces and nephews. Lloyd graduated with New Haven High School’s class of 1972 and went on to earn a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Missouri, class of 1980. After four years in mixed animal private practice in Arizona, Dr. Kloppe went on to complete a residency in Large Animal Reproduction at Texas A&M University and was elected a Diplomate of the American College of Theriogenologists. In 1988 both Lloyd and Jana opened Durango Equine Veterinary Clinic and Command Performance Horse Farms in Buckeye, Arizona. Together they built, owned and managed the practice and farms. Dr. Kloppe served as a member of the Arizona State Veterinary Medical Examining Board from 1995 through 2000 and was awarded the Arizona Equine Practitioner of the year in 1997. He served as the Society for Theriogenology’s conference chairman in 1998, and President in 1998-99. Between 2011 and 2014 he served as a board member of his specialty organization, the American College of Theriogenologists.
He was loved by his employees, colleagues, and clients who considered him a friend. He mentored many veterinarians, and regularly hosted students at the clinic, but never missed one of Bryan’s baseball games, swim meets, band concerts, phone calls or the chance to play catch or hit in the batting cage. He also volunteered to coach Bryan’s teams through little league. He enjoyed traveling the world alongside Jana and Bryan, making family time and experiences with them his top priority. He was an excellent downhill snow skier, frequently visiting Whistler Mountain in Canada, and an avid sports fan. His favorite sport was baseball and he held season tickets for the Diamondbacks from their inaugural season in 1998 until his passing, highlighted by attending 75 games (including the World Series victory) with his family in 2001. He also enjoyed running, hiking, and adventuring and finished his first of 8 marathons at the age of 55. He then hiked and summited a 14,000 foot peak in Colorado, went sky-diving with daughter-in-law Amy and also managed in one day to complete the 28 mile “Rim-to-Rim” hike of the Grand Canyon. The latter feat was accomplished just one month before undergoing surgery for the rare form of brain cancer which took his life. He was blessed to know his granddaughter Taylor and read stories to her every chance that he could. Lloyd always loved to serve at church, supporting the start of both Christ’s Church of the Valley and of the Refinery Christian Church and frequented mission trips with a desire to help those both in his community and in other countries. He was generous to all people with both his time and with his finances. As a leader, instead of commanding those around him, he led by his passionate example of hard work, and inspired those around him to both fulfilling work and better lives. He had a brilliant way of teaching through demonstration with such incredible patience, kindness, and humility that it would be easy to be unaware that he was passing on so much knowledge. Those close to him came to believe that the Lord must have given him more time in the day than most, and would agree that he spent this time both wisely and unselfishly.
It is difficult to do justice for a man who was as close to perfect as it gets. Lloyd Herbert Kloppe was a great man and a humble servant leader who lived out the words of the Bible, without fear, and possessed a genius of simplicity even in the most difficult situations and trying times. He surrounded himself with amazing friends. His judgement was trusted by all. He lived life to the fullest as an inspiration, mentor, and friend. He never spoke a bad word about anyone or complained, even during his hard fought cancer battle. We have also yet to find anyone with a bad word to say about him. The joy in his eyes radiated his love for life, family, friends, animals and the Lord. His legacy lives on, leaving the world a better place.
Visitation will be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in New Haven, Missouri on Saturday, July 30th between 9-11am with a funeral service to begin at 11am followed by a luncheon. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to St. Jude Children Research Hospital.
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
3825 Boeuf Lutheran Rd
New Haven, MO 63068
Further plans for a celebration of Lloyd’s life to be held in Arizona at a later date will be announced when they are finalized.
Marjorie Knapp
Ms. Marjorie Knapp, aged 95, of Buckeye, Arizona died July 24, 2022. She was born January 16, 1927 in Castleton, North Dakota to Arthur Parks and Mary Bushinger.
A service is being planned for a later date in Los Gatos, California.
Paulette Spotts
Paulette Spotts, age 71, passed away July 24th, 2022, after a brief battle with cancer. She passed into the Lord’s loving embrace, surrounded by family at her home with her loving dog Frasier by her side.
She was born in Wauseon, Ohio to Bill and Ruth Clair. She attended Stautzenberger College in Maumee, Ohio. Paulette was blessed with three daughters, Andrea Lauber of Phoenix, Arizona, Erika Bellamy of Columbus, Ohio, and Abby (Chris) Sweeney of Las Vegas, NV. She raised her daughters in Archbold, Ohio. Paulette married Curt Spotts on September 13th, 1999, and relocated to Phoenix, Arizona where they lived happily for 22 years.
Prior to her relocation to Phoenix, she worked many years at Sauder Woodworking. Later in Phoenix she worked for Grand Canyon Title, TJ Maxx, and retired in 2020.
In her spare time, Paulette enjoyed gardening, crocheting, and creating delicious meals for her family. She was crafty with everything. She was an amazing pie maker just like her mother Ruth. She loved going for walks and spending time with her daughters and grandkids. She loved her shopping trips with her sister and good friends. She was an incredibly kind, selfless woman, who would often sacrifice her own needs to help others. She brought out the best in people. She loved animals and they were just as much a part of the family. Even her grand pups loved her sweet nature.
She is survived by her husband, Curtis Spotts; three daughters; Andrea Lauber, Erika Bellamy, and Abby (Chris) Sweeney; five grandchildren; Jacob Colander, Zachery DeWolfe, Max Colander, Eian Bellamy, and Karis Bellamy; a sister Pamela Rychener; brother-in-law Richard Spiess, Craig (Marilyn) Spotts, sister-in-law Julie (Edward) Ruffer; many nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her father Bill Clair, mother Ruth Clair, mother-in-law Joanne Spotts, father-in-law Jack Spotts, brother-in-law Chuck Rychener, niece Sara Burkholder, sister-in-law Cathy Spiess, nephew David Spotts, and great niece Callie Ruffer.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Sara’s Garden in Wauseon, Ohio (www.sarasgarden.org).
A memorial service will be held at Thompson Funeral Chapel at 1PM, Sunday, July 31.
Joseph P. Lombardi
November 15, 1950 – July 21, 2022
Joe was the first-born child to Pat and Lydia Lombardi who resided in Raritan, NJ. As Pat and Lydia’s family grew, they moved several times finally settling in North Plainfield, NJ. At the age of seven, Joe placed his faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He dedicated living his life for the glory of God and never wavered in his faith.
At a very early age, Joe’s uncle taught him to play the trumpet. Due to his natural ability, Joe was encouraged to pursue a career in music. Upon graduating from North Plainfield High School in 1968, he attended the Wheaton Conservatory of Music at Wheaton College in Illinois and graduated in 1972. He then began his career at Southfield Christian School, Southfield, Michigan, where he started the school’s band and choir programs. From 1972-1977, he was known to his students as “Mr. L.” Under his leadership these programs grew, and his students were challenged to grow in their relationships with the Lord and use their talents for HIS glory. Through all of the success of the band and choir, Joe gave tribute and praise to his Savior. He ended every choir concert with Andraé Crouch’s song “My Tribute” to publicly praise the Lord.
During the summer months, Joe attended Dallas Theological Seminary. There he earned a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, graduating with highest honors in 1978.
In the fall of 1978 Joe moved to Aurora, IL to begin a band and choir program at Aurora Christian School. There he met Win Watkins, who became his wife in 1979.
In 1978 Joe became the youth pastor at Claim Street Baptist Church in Aurora, where he was later ordained.
Following his deep desire to preach God’s word he became a senior pastor and served in this capacity in six churches across the country. They were: First Baptist of Villa Park, Villa Park, IL, Evangel Baptist Church, Springfield, NJ, Grace Church, Desert Hot Springs, CA, Lake Center Bible Church, Portage, MI, North Salem Baptist Church, Salem, OR, and New Hope Bible Church, Wahoo, NE. Joe’s message was always clear – salvation is a free gift from God, by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone and never by anything we have done.
Joe and Win returned to the Pacific Northwest in 2015 and finally relocated to southwest Arizona. Joe continually sought opportunities to preach God’s Word and was willing to serve in any way he could. Retirement was never his goal.
On Thursday morning, July 21, 2022, Joe saw his Savior face to face for the first time. After years of fighting the Alzheimer’s disease, Joe made one final move to heaven where he is whole again.
Joe is survived by his wife of 43 years, Win, their sons, James and TJ and his siblings: Phyllis Rohrmayer, Ray Lombardi and Becky Gardner.
A celebration of life for Joe is being planned. The family asks that any gifts in his memory be sent to Southfield Christian School and designated for the music program. (Southfield Christian School / 28650 Lahser Road / Southfield, MI 48034)
Ralph Sweeden
With a heavy heart, Ralph Sweeden passed on Saturday, July 23, 2022. He had a personal relationship with Christ who gave him comfort and grace throughout his life. He lived 78 years before passing through the valley of death to meet his eternal God where there is no such thing as broken and everything is new. The only scars in heaven are the ones who is holding him now. He was a longtime member of Christ Presbyterian Church serving where he could.
Ralph was proud to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era at only 17 years old with his parents approval. He was very active who enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, golfing, dancing, and was an avid bicyclist peddling thousands of miles on his bicycles. He also rode MS 150 for years raising money to find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis. He was well liked in his community and made friends where ever he went.
Ralph loved his family and looked forward to the large family gatherings at Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays, and just visiting and being near his children and grandchildren. Ralph was a big fan of the oldies but goodies television shows. He watched repeats of Gunsmoke, Andy Griffith, Big Valley, High Chaparral, The Waltons, and enjoyed Sunday Morning program.
Ralph leaves behind his wife of over 36 years, Susan Sweeden, his 6 children – Brett Sweeden, Christy Coyle, Rhonda Sweeden, Audrey Sweeden, Becky Staley (Matt), and Sean Trigg. He leaves behind 10 adult grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren ages from birth to 12 years old. He was a proud father and grandfather who was blessed to have such a beautiful family. Ralph was cherished and will forever live in our hearts. He will be deeply missed by those who knew him.
Ralph’s Legacy
Faith, Family, Friend
A visitation will be held at 6pm, Wednesday, August 3 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. Burial will take place on August 4, 2022 at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix, Arizona at 10:30am. A Celebration of Life will follow at 12PM at Christ Presbyterian Church.
Bruce Wilson
Bruce M. Wilson, 68, of Litchfield Park, Arizona died July 20, 2022 in Goodyear, Arizona. He was born November 3, 1953 in Patuxent River, Maryland to Carter Wilson, Jr. and Betty Ann Millard.
Services are private.
*A more detailed obituary will be posted when available.
Gregory Smith
Gregory L. Smith Jr, aged 40, of Phoenix, Arizona died July 14, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born August 17, 1981 in Los Angeles, California to Gregory L. Smith Sr and Gwen Whitfield.
Greg was a very loved man. He was always smiling. He had a big heart and showed his love to everyone he knew. Greg loved his children and family tremendously. He would do anything for them. He was the one that would light up the room when he walked in, and his laugh was unforgettable. No amount of words can explain the person Greg was. If you knew him, you would never forget him. His personality, soul, love, and everything about him was unforgettable. He had a love that will never be lost or forgotten.
Gregory leaves behind to cherish his memories his mother, Gwen Whitfield; step-father, Roy Whitfield; daughters, Victoria A. Smith and Parker M. Smith; sons Keishaun I. Smith, Christian D. Smith, and Gregory L. Smith III; sister, Nicole Smith; brothers, Jerome Whitfield and Curtis Askins; along with his extended family and friends.
Services are private.
Maria Rodriguez Juarez
Maria Rodriguez Juarez, 93, of Avondale, Arizona died July 10, 2022 in Avondale, Arizona. She was born December 24, 1928 in Managua, Nicaragua to Pablo Rodriguez and Delfina Juarez.
A visitation will be held at Thompson Funeral Chapel on Saturday, July 23 at 1PM with the funeral service beginning at 2PM. Maria’s final resting place will be in Nicaragua.
Penny Knight Bingham
Penny Knight Bingham, our sweet sister, wife, Aunt, grandma, great grandma passed away on July 13th, 2022, of health complications. She was born in Ogden Utah on Jan. 28th, 1953.
Penny was the red head, cute, freckled daughter of James Loyd Knight and Twila Anderson. She was raised in Plain City, Utah. She attended Plain City Elementary School, Wahlquist junior high and Weber High School.
As a teenager, Penny moved to California to be by her dad and worked for Common Market Distributing for many years. It has been said, “she was the unsung hero of Common Market and Swift Transportation in their early years”. Her favorite words at work would be “Oh my hell”. She was very intelligent, go getter and never stopped.
In 1981 she was married to Henry George Bingham who was the love of her life. Bing was her tennis teacher and they fell in love. Together, they built a beautiful home in Palm Desert California where they spent the balance of their lives together and where Penny spent the rest of her life.
Penny created and decorated a lovely home. She was also a fantastic cook. She and Bing loved to entertain and have guests over. They welcomed everyone in their home. They played tennis together and won many tournaments. Penny’s creativity and ingenuity led her to begin her own business which was called “High Spirits”. Bing would help her during the early days by sewing lace on small bobby socks for the golfers and tennis players. It would later expand into a hat business where she would sell visors, baseball hats with Swarovski crystals to woman in the golf and tennis communities. High Spirits had customers all over the U.S. from Florida to Hawaii. She would do this until she became ill 2 years ago.
Her best friend and cousin Jil said: Penny was brilliant, vivacious, elegant, hilarious, kind, generous, gutsy, and talented. There is only ONE PENNY.
In Penny’s words she said:” I have had a great life! One that is to DIE for and hence, I have. All of you will never know how much you meant to me in this life. I have always been sustained by family and friends. All have been an inspiration in my life and helped to direct me in certain paths which I happily learned and travelled. My life was special. It is special for all of us. Sometimes, we just don’t know it. But I do! It is LOVE! And I love you all. My love of life started early, but my most salient LOVE, was Bing. I have never stopped missing him. He is with me forever”.
She will be missed by many especially her family and all her dear friends. Those who preceded her in death are her husband Henry George Bingham, her parents, brother Rick Knight, sister Janice Wakefield, brother-in-law Larry Charlton, and stepdaughter Pamela Williams.
She is survived by her sister Linda Charlton, Randy Knight, Gary Knight, Mary (Cory) Webster, Shelly (Bill) Sickinger. Penny’s stepchildren, grandchildren and great grandchildren are, Pete & (Melanie)Bingham, Jeff & (Tanya) Bingham, Julie & (Craig) Johnson, Brett & (Melissa) Williams, Chad Williams, Nadia and Tyler Bingham, Mikey, and Parker Williams.
A life celebration will be held on Sept 10th at the Westin Kierland Golf Resort Trailblazer Ballroom AB between 5-7pm for friends and family. Penny will be buried at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery along side her husband Henry George Bingham.
Services under the care of Thompson Funeral Chapel in Goodyear, Arizona.
Mary Rochin
Mrs. Mary A. Rochin of Avondale, AZ passed away on Saturday, July 16, 2022 in her home in Avondale, AZ surrounded by family. She was born in Chihuahua, Mexico on April 27, 1938. She worked many jobs throughout her career from clothes inspector, elder care, to homemaker. She was most proud of her work as a Quality Line Inspector for Farah Manufacturing Co. in El Paso, Texas. She was a graduate of Loretto High School in El Paso, Texas.
She was an avid fan of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Dallas Cowboys. She loved to travel with her beloved husband, Mario. She spent a lifetime dedicated to the Catholic church. Her favorite Church was St. John Vianney. She loved to sew, crochet and made many garments for the priests at St. Johns Vianney. Her love for sharing was her greatest gift. She could strike up a conversation with a stranger and before you knew it, they were best friends. She cherished her husband Mario A. Rochin, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mary is survived by her sons: Louis Matamoros (Edna), David Matamoros (Beverly), Joseph Matamoros, and Javier Matamoros (Mary Ellen), Joe Rochin (Cindy), Mario Rochin (Yolanda), Michael Rochin, Carlos Rochin (Lisa); daughters, Rosa Moreno (Rocky), Olga Rodriguez (Albert), Libby Helm (Randy), and Carmen Dunn; sister-in-law, Rosa Rochin; brother-in-law, Hector Rochin; 41 grandchildren; and 34 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Mario Rochin, parents; Miguel Sanchez and Juana Sanchez, brothers: Miguel, Ignacio; sisters: Carmen Rochin, Josephina Sanchez, and Elena Gonzalez.
A visitation will be held on August 2, 2022 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ 85338. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on August 3 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 800 W. Loma Linda Blvd, Goodyear, AZ 85338. Burial will take place at 1 p.m. on August 3 at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024.
At the request of the family, masks will be required for all services Masks will be available upon request.
Jesus Needed a Seamstress
I believe heaven is perfect. We might ask ourselves if it is perfect and we enjoy earthly careers and skills would God allow us to continue them in heaven if that is what his souls wanted?
Seamstresses in heaven get to do what they are passionate about, make beautiful garments. The angels wanted new robes. They went to the Lord and requested new robes, not just any robes but the best.
They said Lord we need the best seamstress for our robes. The Lord turned to Peter, the pearly gates keeper and asked him, “Peter, where is our Seamstress?” The Lord said, “You know, the one we have been saving for such an important project.
The one who is the Godly woman, she is good, loves all people unconditionally, she keeps my commands, she is a leader that shows the rest of us how to be a great person, always bringing joy to others. You know the one who preaches my name all day and does so without saying a word.”
Peter responded, “Lord, we have not called her home yet.” Jesus said, “Bring my beloved Mary Rochin home. Heaven needs a Seamstress.”
Gregory Smith Jr
Gregory Smith Jr., 40, of Avondale, Arizona died July 14, 2022. He was born August 17, 1981 in Los Angeles, California to Gregory Smith, Sr. and Gwendolyn Law.
Services are private.
*A more detailed obituary will be posted when available.
Manuel Lopez Saldana, Sr.
Manuel Lopez Saldana Sr., aged 81, died July 11, 2022. He was born May 27, 1941 in San Angelo, Texas to Jesus Saldana and Ruth Lopez.
A visitation will be held July 27 at 6PM, with a recitation of the Holy Rosary beginning at 7PM, at Thompson Funeral Chapel in Goodyear, Arizona. A funeral mass will be held 10AM July 28 at St. John Vianney Church. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.
Gerald Miller
Gerald L. “Gerry” Miller, 76, of Avondale, Arizona died July 11, 2022. He was born October 6, 1945 in Pottstown, Pennsylvania to Gerald L. & Anna Mae Miller. He was preceded in death by his parents Gerald L. & Anna Mae Miller and grandson Christian Miller.
Gerald graduated in 1963 from Pottstown High School in Pennsylvania. He went on to work for Pennsylvania Power and Light immediately after graduating. He then joined the US Army. He quickly advanced his career to include Airborne Special Forces, Green Beret and finished his military career in Military Intelligence. He received many decorations, including the Legion of Merit & Meritorious Service Medal, two Army Commendation Medals, four Army Achievement Medals, seven Army Good Conduct Medals, a National Defense Service Medal and a Humanitarian Service Medal. he retired from the Army as a Mast 1st Sergeant E8. After his retirement from the Army, he had another successful career with Kastle Stair, Inc. and Kustom Stair & Finish, inc.
Gerald is survived by his wife, Pamela High, daughter and son-in-law Anne Louise & Douglas Delhagen, son and daughter-in-law Gerald and Kelly Miller, son and daughter-in-law Walter & Christine Miller, his sister and brother-in-law Audrey & Richard Pell, and brother and sister-in-law Allen & Sally Miller. He is also survived by ten grandchildren; Walter Jr., Jacob, Anneliese, Daniel, Joseph, Gerald III, Mark, Paul and Samuel, and one great-grandchild Jireh Lee.
Services are pending.
Annetta Hess
Annetta Hess, 91, of Surprise, Arizona died July 13, 2022. She was born February 15, 1931 in St. Maries, Idaho to H L Norton and Effie Burdine.
A visitation will be held at 8AM July 28 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. The funeral will begin at 10AM.
*A more detailed obituary will be posted when available.
Joe Boydston
Joe E. Boydston, 67, life-long resident of Avondale, Arizona died July 13, 2022. He was born September 29, 1954 in Phoenix to Donald Boydston and Barbara Forstner.
He is survived by his sons Jacob and Jared; grandchildren Arianna, Jackson, and Juliette; sisters Sue, Linda, June, and Bille; and brother Jim.
Joe served three years in the U.S. Navy as a submariner. His commanding officer encouraged Joe to reenlist, saying he could use more discipline. Joe declined. He unapologetically lived life his way as a free spirit. On the darkest days for family and friends, Joe was there to help, never expecting anything in return. Joe maintained childhood friendships for life and was just plain fun.
Joe’s wishes were for no funeral service.
Theoples “Bill” Martin
Mr. Theoples W. Martin (Bill), age 77, of Goodyear, Arizona died July 6, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born March 23, 1945 in Mohegan, McDowell County, West Virginia. His parents are as follows: Mother’s maiden name Lillie Mary Martin. Theoples was preceded in death by one sister and five brothers.
He attended schools in Anawalt, West Virginia and graduated from Gary High School and McDowell County Vocations School in June 1962. After graduation from high school, he started college at Lock Haven College in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania. Shortly after, he was drafted and inducted into the U.S. Army. He served his country from 1963 to 1969. He served during the Vietnam era. After Theoples returned from the military, he became a salesman. He worked at several car dealerships and made many lifelong friends.
He leaves to cherish his memory, mother Lillie Williams-Neal of Columbus, Ohio; daughter, Yolana Crofcheck, granddaughters, Megan Crofcheck and Whitneylanae Crofcheck-Glenn; grandson, Mark Anthony Crofcheck-Glenn; and one great-granddaughter TyMara Celeste Harris, all of Bluefield, West Virginia; sisters, Ramona Boston of Ohio, Cheryl Williams of Ohio, Juanita Williams Smith of Alabama, and Delores Williams-Blair of California; brothers Michael (Rolanda) of Georgia, Anthony K. (Daniella) Williams of Ohio; K. Robert Williams of Germany, and James D Williams of California; and special friend Ruby Nyughen. He also leaves behind many devoted nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
His final resting place will be in a National Military Cemetery near Columbus Ohio on a date yet to be determined.
Albert Maloney
Albert R Maloney, 84, of Goodyear, AZ, passed away on Thursday, July 7, 2022. Al was born in Springfield, IL, on August 8, 1937, to Albert Harrison and Dorothy Jorgine Maloney. He is survived by his wife, Marlene Kay; daughters, Gail and Jill (Matt); brother, Robert; and grandchildren, Amanda and David (Brooke) Condit.
Al grew up in Tallula, IL, and graduated from Tallula High School. He qualified for a scholarship to Illinois State University (Normal, IL) and earned a B.S. degree in Spanish and English in 1959. He also earned an M.A. degree in Spanish from the University of Illinois (Champaign-Urbana, IL) in 1961.
Al continued his education at Indiana University (Bloomington, IN), where he took graduate courses in Spanish Literature and Folklore while teaching undergraduate Spanish courses. He also taught at Meadville College and Temple University in Pennsylvania.
Al and Kay were married on August 8, 1961 (Al’s birthday). They moved their family to Goodyear, AZ, in 1969. Al worked in the telecommunications industry as a production technician and retired from AT&T Technologies (Phoenix, AZ) in 1995. Kay worked at Goodyear Aerospace/Loral Defense Systems as a technical editor in Engineering Publications Dept.
Al enjoyed reading historical books; doing crossword puzzles in the Sunday newspaper; watching old movies, westerns, and documentaries; and listening to classical music, especially Mozart sonatas. In his youth, he played piano. Al also had a stamp collection and volumes of classical music.
He was an advocate of recycling and protecting wildlife and the environment. His favorite food was homemade potato salad, and his favorite cold drink was pomegranate tea.
Al loved being at home with his family and was proud of his children and grandchildren. He had a keen sense of humor and was known for his quick wit. In only a few words, he could make people laugh. He will be missed by all who knew him.
At Al’s request, no memorial service will be held.
Joe Gardner Davison
Joe Gardner Davison (July 7, 1944 – July 7, 2022) was thrilled to be Civil Engineer for Highway Bridges in the State of Arizona but found his true heart’s desire while in retirement when he served as an Associate Pastor for RVC Church in Buckeye, Arizona. He never knew a stranger and loved everyone he met. Once he found his calling, he committed to studying the Bible scripture and seemed to live by Psalms 37. His favorite hobby was trains and loved to collect trains and to ride the rails. He was a friend to many and always had a kind word to everyone he met.
He is preceded in heaven by his parents, Edward and Hellon Davison, his brother Edward, and his wife, Hazel Dean-Davison. He leaves three step-children, Gretchen Peckham (Steven), Michele Grimsley (Vince), and Howard Dean. He loved all eight step grandchildren and his one step great-grandchild.
Malik Williams
Malik A. Williams, aged 23, of Phoenix, AZ went home to glory on 7/01/2022. Malik was born on 3/23/1999 to Tony A. Williams of Phoenix, AZ, and Lucy Longo of Glendale, AZ.
Malik went to North High School in Phoenix, AZ. As a teen he stayed employed. He went on to become a young self- motivated entrepreneur. He had goals to obtain his CDL to start his own trucking business. Malik was extremely outgoing and always had a smile on his face. He loved to eat no matter what he was up. In past time he loved shopping, cars, and spending time with family. He loved being the older brother to his younger siblings.
Malik leaves behind to cherish his memories:
Tony Williams (father) of Phoenix, AZ, and Lucy Longo (mother) of Glendale, AZ
Rosetta Finley (grandmother) of Phoenix, AZ, and James Bills (grandfather) of Los Angeles, CA. Zayia Williams (sister), and Iyaire Hamid (nephew) of Phoenix, AZ, Tony Williams & DeMarcus Williams(brothers) of Phoenix, AZ, Ericka Fair (sister) of Phoenix, AZ.
Tiffany Williams (aunt) and Zen Williams (cousin) of Phoenix, AZ, and Frances Williams (great aunt) of Avondale, AZ, and Luther L. Williams (great uncle) of Litchfield Park, AZ
As well as a host of cousin’s who loved him dearly, and other family.
Malik is preceded in death by Hattie Mae & Luther Lee Williams (great grandparents), Lorine Williams, Virginia Williams, and Annie Mae Williams (great aunts), Melvin Williams (great uncle), Delmar Baker (great-great uncle), Antawone Williams (uncle), Anthony Williams (cousin).
Phyllis Counce
Phyllis LaVon Counce departed this life Sunday, July 3rd, 2022 at LaLoma Village in Litchfield Park, Arizona at the age of 88. She was born to Floyd and Waunetta Hutton on July 20th, 1933 in Stella, Nebraska. Phyllis was predeceased by her husband Richard Counce.
Phyllis married Richard on December 5, 1954. They lived and worked on the family ranch and farm in Hayes Center, Nebraska until 1977, when they moved to Franktown, Colorado to run an auction business. In 1987 they moved to Dodge City, Kansas, and there Richard worked for the Natural Resource Conservation Service and Phyllis worked as a cook for the Dodge City school system.
In 2005 she and Richard retired and moved to Lake of the Ozarks in Camdenton, Missouri. Richard and Phyllis were married for nearly 62 years.
In 2018 Phyllis moved to LaLoma Village in Litchfield Park, Arizona where she enjoyed baking cookies, playing Bridge, going to local concerts, church, bible study, Wii Bowling, walking her dog “Lit’l Guy” and being with friends.
Survivors include: son, Mitchell Counce of Goodyear, Arizona, and daughter, Taunya Goss of Homosassa Florida; grandchildren Seth Wahlert of Commerce City, Colorado, Dirk Wahlert of Greeley, Colorado, and Andrea Laue of Reno, Nevada; great grandchildren Dakota Wahlert and Wryker Wahlert; sisters Gloria Short of Diamond Springs, California and Sheila Spry of Camdenton, Missouri; and a number of nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and many dear friends.
Phyllis was a great mom, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. We celebrate her life and will treasure the many wonderful memories she created for family and friends. She will be greatly missed.
Her ashes will be interred at a graveside service this fall at the cemetery in Hayes Center, Nebraska.
Hector Banda
Hector Banda, 60 of South Woodford, London, England died June 8, 2022 in South Woodford, London. He was born February 11, 1962 in Peoria, Arizona to Alberto and Tiburcia Banda.
Hector grew up in Avondale, Arizona and attended Avondale Elementary and Agua Fria High School. He graduated from Trevor G Browne High School. He was appointed by Senator McCain to attend the US Naval Academy where he studied economics. He served and completed flight school and earned his wings. He served in the Navy as a Lieutenant for ten years. Upon his departure from the Navy, he pursued his continued his education by attending the University of Florida where he studied finance. He also attended Chartered Financial University, International Finance at American University and obtained his MBA. He worked as a Senior Manager at Doloitte in Washington, D.C. for 17 years, and transferred to London, England and worked as a financial analyst until his retirement.
There are so many ways to describe Hector. He was a beloved son, brother, and friend. He was a man with a strong Faith in God, and a generous, loyal, helpful and kind heart. He was full of energy, was a risk-taker, and loved adventures. Though he was humble and honest, he was also fiercely independent and an achiever of many goals. He loved to travel, hiking, reading, and spending time with his family and friends. His passing has broken our hearts, but his memory will live on with us.
Hector is survived by his partner Marian Turner, mother Tiburcia Banda, and sisters Elvira (Robert) Ruiz, Olga Banda, and Irene Banda, and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Alberto Banda, sister Beatrice Gutierrez, and brothers Rudy Banda and David Banda.
A visitation will be held at 6PM, Monday, July 25 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. A recitation of the Holy Rosary and a Funeral Mass is planned, but the date is not confirmed. Once confirmed, the information will be posted. A graveside service will take place at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery on July 26 at 12PM.
Gloria Beltran Lopez
Gloria Beltran Lopez, age 82, of Avondale, Arizona died July 7, 2022. She was born July 11, 1939 in Phoenix, Arizona to Mariano Beltran and Carmen Canez.
A memorial service will be held at 1PM, July 16 at Thompson Funeral Chapel in Goodyear Arizona.
Sherry Lynn Houck Sellars
Sherry Lynn Houck Sellars of Buckeye, (Phoenix) Arizona & formerly of the Chesterfield Community, Morganton, North Carolina, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday July 2, 2022. Born in Caldwell County, North Carolina, on December 13, 1954, she was the daughter of the late J.C. Houck and Muriel Elizabeth Wall Houck of the Chesterfield Community of Burke County, North Carolina.
Sherry was a member of Hartland Missionary Methodist Church. She worked at Broughton Hospital, Morganton and Dorothea Dix Hospital, Raleigh, NC. and is a disabled employee of Broughton Hospital, Morganton.
She was a Member of the Ladies Circle at Hartland Missionary Methodist Church; President of the Chesterfield Home Extension Club, Chesterfield Ruritan Club, Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary Chapter # 43, Lifetime Member of Good Sam’s Club (Camping Club), Member of Burke County Genealogical Society, Morganton, Member of Caldwell County Historical Society, Lenoir; & former member of Buncombe County Genealogical Society, Asheville, North Carolina, former President of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, Picacho Pass Chapter #2530, in the Phoenix, Arizona area and Patriotic & Benevolent Chairperson, Arizona State UDC Division Patriotic Committee Chairperson. She was a former member of the Tombstone Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution War, Sierra Vista, Arizona & Charter Member of Buckeye Valley Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution War, Buckeye, Arizona, and Patriotic Chairperson of Buckeye Valley Chapter DAR.
She is survived by her loving husband Landrum Crawford “Bill” Sellars, and son Christopher Robert Sellars of Buckeye, Arizona. She is also survived by her brother Max Turner Houck and wife Tracy, nephew Jay Cee Houck, and niece Kaitlyn Elizabeth Houck of Morganton.
A service at Burke Memorial Park, Morganton, North Carolina. Rev. Danny Carr & Rev. Wallace Smith of Morganton to officiate. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park.
BK Thompson
Mr. Benjamin Paul “BK” Thompson, 89 of Avondale, Arizona died June 17th, 2022 in Avondale, AZ. He was born April 11, 1933 in Gaffney, South Carolina to Luther Thompson and Etta Byars.
Benjamin was born during the segregation in the south. His parents were field workers and home makers. He worked at the steel mill and later worked at Pratt and Whitney as an airplane engineer, where he later retired. He also was a pastor in Hartford, Connecticut & owned a daycare named Oak Tree daycare center to over 20-40 kids a year. He later moved to New Jersey and was a crossing guard and bus driver for the city of Trenton where he took his 2nd retirement.
He was the Martyr of the family. He lived a life of helping others in their time of need, before helping himself. In his late 80’s he moved to Arizona to enjoy his remaining years with his daughter’s family. He was to enjoy his remaining years with his daughter’s family. He was loved all over the states. He was the true epitome of a man, a father, and husband.
He is survived by his daughters; Joyce Ann Condry, Vivian Reynoso, Kim E. Thompson and his sons; Benjamin K. Thompson, Carmen Bland, Benjamin P. Thompson Jr., Kenneth F. Thompson as well as his 27 grandchildren and 30 great- grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son Julius Jones and daughter’s Etta Combs and Laverne Thompson.
A visitation will be held at 8 AM on July 8, 2022 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. A funeral service will be held at 10 AM on at. Burial will be at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 9925 W. Thomas Rd., Avondale, AZ 85392.
Mary Sue Hearn
Mary Sue Hearn (Shrum) 88, passed away with loved ones by her bedside on June 19, 2022. Mary was born, in Bucoda, Missouri on June 28, 1933, to father, Charles Huston and mother, Eugenia Shrum. Mary met Elvis H. Hearn (who passed away in May of 2016) who she would be married to for 67 years and have three children with, Mary Jane (Hill), Elvis E. Hearn, and Debbie (Davenport). She is survived by, her three children, sisters Dorothy Green (Acy) & Virginia Ozbun (Jr), youngest brother Carlton Shrum, 10 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great grandchildren. Mary was preceded in death by both parents, older brother Charles Junior Shrum, younger brother and best friend Don Shrum (Rose).
Mary had a full life and always had kind words for everyone. She often would say, “If you don’t have something nice to say, say nothing.” She loved painting, thrift shopping, and dressing up her dolls that she collected. Mary was a loving mother, kind sister, faithful wife, cherished grandmother, and wonderful friend to all, she will be dearly missed. Until we meet again, rest in paradise.
Mary Samaniego
Mary Samaniego, aged 92, of Glendale, Arizona died June 29, 2022 in Glendale, Arizona. She was born November 20, 1929 in Litchfield, Arizona to Jose J. Samaniego and Soledad V. Samaniego.
Our beloved mother was a very strong woman that raised seven children (two sons and five daughters). She loved working and providing for her family. She retired as a utility operator in 2001 from Parker Hannifin. She continued to enjoy life with her family and going to the casino. We were truly blessed to have her in or lives for 92 years and we will miss her dearly.
She is survived by her daughters Gloria F Robinson Virginia Flores, Esther Velez, Diana Rascon, and Cecilia Rascon; sons Arturo Flores and Joe Flores, Jr.; and sister Lupe Miranda. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
Mary was preceded in death by four sisters and five brothers.
A visitation will be held at 9AM on July 6 at Thompson Funeral Chapel in Goodyear, Arizona. Burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in Avondale, Arizona.