Obituary

Pamela Jane McAden of Avondale, Arizona passed away May 1, 2023 at the age of 80. She was born October 9, 1942 in Gothenburg, Nebraska to Wayne and Francis Hurd both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her husband of over 40 years, Alva Raymond McAden, Jr. and her brothers Dale and Dick.

Pamela was raised in Gothenburg, Nebraska. Her family moved to Colorado where she graduated from high school. She met her husband, Alva, after starting a job at the phone company. It was love at first sight for Alva, and they married six months later. Together they raised their three children and enjoyed life as a family. As active members of their community and church, Pamela and Alva ran “The Sunshine Ministry” which delivered care packages to the elderly in their community. Pamela was also known as “the card lady.” She loved to send people, even strangers she met at the grocery store, cards just to “make their day better.” She frequently would have large stacks of cards to go out to the mail.

Pamela loved to take care of her family. She was always baking cookies and brownies for her grandchildren. When anybody in her family was sick, she would do her best to care for them. She was kind, caring, and compassionate. Her smile never failed to reach her sparkling eyes when she smiled. She loved to wear her “bling” in shades of purple and pink. She was a bright butterfly who loved to spread joy.

Pamela was an angel on earth. She was a devout Christian who prayed and thanked God every day for her life. She led her life according to Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Her eyes and smile held the love of God in them always. She taught her children that He never gives them more than they can handle. And though she is gone from us, her memory and many lessons will live on through the legacy of her family and friends.

Pamela leaves behind many loved ones to cherish her memory. These include her children: Peggy Ann McAden, Alva “Corky” McAden, and James Andrew McAden; brother Neil Hurd; grandchildren: Stacie Jane Dennis, Ryan Andrew Dennis, Shannon James McAden, and Trevor McAden; and one great-grandchild, Renee Ann Dennis. She also leaves behind her beloved Yorkipoo Boo, extended family, and the many friends she made on her journey through life.

A visitation will be held from 9 to 10:30AM, Thursday, May 11 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. A funeral service will begin at 10:30AM. Interment will follow at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at 1:30PM.