Kuunii Grayson

Joe Salcido Perez

Apr 29, 1938 - Oct 15, 2024

Phoenix, AZ

Joe Salcido Perez, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on October 15, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on April 29, 1938, in Phoenix, Arizona, Joe was the youngest and last surviving sibling of 13 children born to Tomasa and Cenobio Perez. Joe is survived by his devoted son Mark Anthony Perez his Daughter in law Laura Perez and Son Victor Joseph Perez. He leaves behind a large, loving family, including his grandchildren: Pamela Perez, Ashley Perez Camden Summer Perez, Lisa Cehovsky, Michael Cehovsky, Joie Perez, Shea Perez, Season, Sarah, and Tiffany. Joe was also a proud great-grandfather to Ryleigh, Carley, Hayden, Aarylyn, Brooklyn, Michael, Milo, and 14 other great-grandchildren who filled his life with joy and laughter. Additionally, he leaves behind countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who will miss him dearly. Joe was preceded in death by his daughter, Julie Ann Perez; his parents, Tomasa and Cenobio; and his 12 siblings. At the age of 18, Joe joined the Army National Guard, marking the beginning of a life defined by service, dedication, and a commitment to his community. He was a man of many talents and passions. Joe founded The Joe Perez Band, sharing his love of music with others, and he was an accomplished guitarist who delighted in playing for family and friends. He was also a successful entrepreneur, starting both Classic Creations Landscaping and Joe Perez Contracting and Construction Company, businesses that reflected his hard work and determination. For the last 20 years of his life, Joe served as Co-Chairman at the American Legion Post 41, where he was deeply involved in organizing charity events and volunteering. His dedication to Post 41 was unwavering, and he touched countless lives through his service and kindness. Outside of his professional life, Joe’s greatest joy came from his family. Known for his humor, warmth, and generosity, Joe could make anyone smile with his jokes and storytelling. His time spent with family was precious to him. His granddaughter Pamela was a constant presence, visiting him daily when he lived alone and sharing meals they both loved—moments that brought him comfort and joy. He also treasured the times when his granddaughter Ashley visited with her daughters, Ryleigh, Carley, and Hayden, filling his home with laughter. Joe shared a special bond through music with his granddaughter Summer, creating memories that will remain with her forever. Above all, Joe’s relationship with his son, Mark, was a cherished friendship as well as a deep father-son bond. Their love for one another was immeasurable and was a testament to the strength of family. A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on November 25, 2024, from 5 to 7 PM at the American Legion Post 41. 715 S 2nd Street, Phoenix AZ 85003 In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the American Legion Post 41, in honor of Joe’s dedication to his community. Joe’s legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be dearly missed.

Bonnie Elizabeth Starnes

Dec 24, 1969 - Jan 20, 1970

Phoenix, AZ

Bonnie Elizabeth Starnes - April 17, 1950 - September 19, 2024 Bonnie Elizabeth Starnes, a beloved wife, mother, and cherished member of the community, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2024, at the age of 74 in Phoenix, Arizona. Born on April 17, 1950, in Louisville (Township), Illinois, Bonnie touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed. Bonnie's life will be celebrated and honored at a funeral service held by the Rasberry Family Funeral Home, situated at 9034 Long Point Rd, Houston, TX 77055, USA. For inquiries and assistance, please contact the funeral home at (713) 464-1910. Throughout her life, Bonnie was a pillar of strength, displaying qualities of compassion, grace, and resilience. She was a devout member of Mount Zion Baptist Church, where her spiritual journey flourished. Bonnie's unwavering faith guided her through life's challenges and was an inspiration to all who knew her. On December 8, 2000, Bonnie entered into a sacred union of marriage with Alvin Ray Starnes. Their love and commitment served as a shining example to those around them. In the face of adversity and triumph, Bonnie and Alvin navigated life together, supporting each other in all endeavors. Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Earl Harris and Gwendolyn Marie Whitlow, as well as her younger brother, Arthur Stewart. Their memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved them. Bonnie leaves behind a lasting legacy through her daughters, Marie Elyse Isabell of Houston, Texas, and Amber Drew-Smith of Arizona City, Arizona. Marie and Amber were the light of Bonnie's life, and her unconditional love for them was immeasurable. Bonnie's nurturing spirit and wisdom will continue to guide her daughters throughout their lives. In addition to her beloved family, Bonnie leaves behind a vast network of friends and acquaintances who have been touched by her warmth, kindness, and generosity. Her memory will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we bid farewell to Bonnie Elizabeth Starnes, let us celebrate the remarkable life she lived. May her memory serve as a constant reminder of the enduring power of love and the impact we can make on the lives of others. In this time of grief, let us find solace in the cherished memories we hold close to our hearts. The family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Mount Zion Baptist Church in honor of Bonnie's commitment to her faith. Donations can be sent to the address of the funeral home mentioned above. We extend our deepest sympathies to the Starnes family and all those who mourn the loss of Bonnie. May she rest in eternal peace, knowing she has left an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone she encountered.

Steve Paxton

Jan 20, 1939 - Feb 20, 2024

Phoenix, AZ

Steven Douglas Paxton, a pioneering experimental dancer and choreographer, passed away on February 21st, 2024, in Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of 85 due to Parkinson's disease. Paxton, famous for his contributions to the development of Contact Improvisation, believed in the inclusivity of dance, welcoming both trained and untrained individuals to explore movement. Born in Phoenix in 1939, Paxton's journey into dance began with gymnastics before he transitioned to pursue a career in dance. His innovative approach to movement, influenced by the experimental art scene of the 1960s and 1970s, led to the development of Contact Improvisation, a dance form exploring human connection through physical interaction. Survived by his long-term partner Lisa Nelson, Paxton's legacy extends beyond his groundbreaking work in dance. His contributions, including the exploration of pedestrian movement and the utilization of everyday objects in performance, have shaped contemporary dance practices worldwide. Paxton's impact on the dance community earned him numerous awards, including the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Biennale in 2014. His innovative spirit and dedication to expanding the boundaries of dance continue to inspire generations of dancers, performers, and choreographers globally.

Frank Duncan Riggs

Sep 04, 1950 - Dec 21, 2023

Phoenix, AZ

Frank Riggs, a dedicated public servant and advocate for education, passed away on December 22, 2023, in Arizona, at the age of 73. Born on September 5, 1950, in Louisville, Kentucky, Frank leaves behind a legacy marked by his commitment to creating opportunities for all children. A former California congressman, Riggs served in the U.S. House of Representatives for six years, focusing on education issues as a member of the House Education and Workforce Committee. His passion for education extended to his key role in sponsoring the Charter School Expansion Act of 1998, facilitating the growth of the charter school industry and providing opportunities for underserved communities. Riggs, an early supporter of charter schools, later dedicated a decade to running the nonprofit Charter Schools Development Corp., offering loans to charter schools, particularly in inner cities. Despite his contributions to the charter school movement, he advocated for stricter oversight in Arizona, demonstrating his commitment to accountability. In 2018, Riggs ran for the position of state superintendent, emphasizing the need for regulatory tightening. Although he won the Republican primary, he ultimately lost in the general election. His extensive political career included unsuccessful campaigns for the California senate in 1998 and the Arizona governorship in 2014. Frank Riggs's impact on education and his advocacy for the underprivileged will be remembered as a testament to his dedication to public service. He leaves a lasting legacy in the field of education and a void in the hearts of those who knew him.

Sandra Day O'Connor

Mar 25, 1930 - Nov 30, 2023

Phoenix, AZ

"Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor passed away on December 1st, 2023, at the age of 93 in Phoenix, Arizona. She died due to advanced dementia and respiratory illness. She was born on March 26th, 1930, in El Paso, Texas. She returned joyfully for her 50th high school reunion in 1996, reminiscing about her academic roots. A graduate of Austin High School, O'Connor, the first female Supreme Court Justice, was celebrated by both Arizonans and Texans. Mayor Oscar Leeser expressed the city's grief, calling her ""El Paso's daughter"" and a national trailblazer. Famous for her fiery spirit and leadership, O'Connor's achievements extended from her high school days to her groundbreaking legal career. Raised on the Lazy B Ranch in Arizona, she learned skills and later excelled at Stanford University and Law School. O'Connor became a key figure in Arizona politics, eventually ascending to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1981. Here she served for 25 years. Throughout her tenure, O'Connor was a moderate ""swing vote,"" advocating for equal protection under the law. Her legacy resonates in Texas and is reflected in schools named after her. Moreover, her induction into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame also shows this. Governor Greg Abbott acknowledged her trailblazing role and lasting inspiration. State Rep. Eddie Morales, Jr. honored her commitment to the law and the U.S. Constitution, remembering the El Paso-born icon. "

Ann Haugen

Oct 20, 1943 - Dec 05, 2022

Phoenix, AZ

Ann Haugen, 79, of Phoenix, AZ died Dec. 5, 2022 in Phoenix. Ann was born Oct. 20, 1943 in Saint Paul, MN to Art Raymond Djerdahl and Lauretta Djerdahl. She graduated from high school in St. Paul, MN. She worked for Honeywell Aerospace in Phoenix, AZ as a Circuit Board Builder. Ann loved her rescue pets: Winter, Pumpkin, Baby and Wolfy. She also loved Arts, Crafts, her family and friends. She was a Lutheran. She is preceded in death by her Parents, Art and Lauretta Djerdahl: two brothers, Raymond and Larry: and a Sister Marlene. She is survived by her eldest son and his family, George, Teri, Josh and Chris Haugen of Scottsdale, AZ; her youngest son and his family, Donald, Trish, Chelsea, and Chance Haugen of Prescott, AZ; her sister and her family, Rose, Charlie, Aiden, Bruce, Dawn and Merle Booth of Phoenix, AZ; her brother David of Quartzsite, AZ and her close friends, Kristina, Carolyn, and Margaret, all of Phoenix, AZ.