Westcott Funeral Home

01/12/2026

Michael Ballin

Michael Ballin, Writer, Producer, Director and four time Emmy-winning Production Sound Designer was born and raised in Washington, D.C. and Palm Beach Florida. Along with an attentive education and following a stint in the Marine Corps, he began his career in television at WPTV in Palm Beach. With a move south to continue his education, Ballin studied Radio, Television and Film at Lindsey-Hopkins College and the University if Miami. He accepted a position at Miami's NBC affiliate, climbed the ladder from cameraman to studio supervisor all the while, writing commercials for local businesses and advertising agencies. At that point, he set his sights higher and headed for Hollywood. Ballin went on to hone his various skills at several Los Angeles' television production houses while continuing his freelance writing interests.

Taking an opportunity to shift course and follow his musical passion, Ballin took a six year detour from his television career to accept an opportunity as a promoter with a rock and roll concert company. The experience enhanced his management and people skills and his knowledge of live production problem solving. He came back to television on meeting fellow Floridian, Hugh Wilson, the creator of WKRP in Cincinnati, who hired him as a music and sound consultant for the series.

When WKRP left he air in 1984, Ballin launched a production sound career, taking his talent to CHEERS for three years and winning consecutive Emmys (1985-1987). On segueing over to friend Hugh Wilson's new critically acclaimed series, Franks Place, He not only picked up another Emmy (1988) but also enhanced his burgeoning writing career, when Wilson purchased a Frank's Place script Ballin had written.

Ballin went on to write for TV series, such as Who's the Boss, Simon and Simon, Bob Newhart, Cheers and others. He created and has written, produced and directed the Hollywood Independent Producers Association, Telly Award winning series, Rolling Art Television, which is syndicated worldwide. Although retired, Ballin continues to involve himself in creative endeavors he enjoys and has several television and feature film projects in development.

Living among the Red-Rocks of Sedona, Arizona, Michael is a life long practitioner of martial arts and embraces meditation daily.

View Michael Ballin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/12/2026

James E. Tuttle

James E. Tuttle born July 6th, 1968 passed away in Cottonwood on January 10th, 2026.

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01/12/2026

01/11/2026

As we look back on last year, we are overwhelmed by the trust you have put in us. We know the value of your trust, and we are forever grateful for you turning to us in your greatest time of need. It is a privilege to laugh with you, cry with you, and hear your cherished family stories. We look forward to honoring your trust in us with continued excellent service in 2026 and beyond!

If you need anything at all, call 928.225.2000.

01/09/2026

Thinking about your own mortality can feel uncomfortable, but sharing your story can offer comfort and healing. In the article below, discover how legacy projects create lasting connections and support your loved ones through grief.

Legacy projects are something for your loved ones to remember you by when you're gone. Start telling your story today!

01/05/2026

Stephen Clark

Stephen Richard Clark, 77, passed away peacefully at his Camp Verde home on December 26, 2025. After bravely confronting head and neck cancer earlier in 2025, he was in remission at the time of his passing.

Steve owned and operated Allegra Marketing, Print and Mail in Cottonwood, from February 2008 until January, 2025. He built a digital print shop business and earned multiple sales awards over the years from Alliance Franchise Brands. He was a talented graphic designer, production manager, and successful entrepreneur.

Before moving from Michigan to Arizona in 2007, Steve retired from AT&T after 38 years in various positions including training (his favorite), technical problem solving, and repair. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology from Lawrence Technological University, Southfield, Michigan.

He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Charlotte Chase, 73 and his two sons, Ian Richard Clark, 52 and husband Geoffrey Paul LaRue, 36 of Berlin, Germany; and Justin Allen Clark, 49 and his partner, Katie Goggin, 49 of Oakland, California.

The Reverend Kenneth Chase, Charlotte's brother and pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Dearborn, Michigan will preside over all the services. Deacon David Kaminsky of Camp Verde will assist Father Chase at the Camp Verde Mass.

A rosary service will be held at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Camp Verde on Monday, January 19 at 7:00 p.m. Visitation is at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 20 followed by a funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Steve served at the altar of this church for five years.

Steve will be buried at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery on Friday, January 23 following a funeral Mass at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Utica, Michigan. Visitation begins at 9:30 a.m. with Mass following at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place immediately after Mass.

Steve's life was marked by creativity, generosity, and faith, and he will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

View Stephen Clark's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/02/2026

Are you looking to honor a veteran?s military service at their final goodbye? Check out these 20 ideas for how you can personalize a beloved veteran?s funeral to highlight and celebrate their military service in a way that is tailored to their one-of-a-kind story.

There are so many way to go about personalizing a veteran's final tribute. Here are 20 ideas to get you started with your own brainstorm!

01/01/2026

A new year has come. Let’s make the most of it by spending time with those we love most!

12/31/2025

If you are grieving, the Christmas holiday adds its own challenges. You may feel stretched to your limit, but have hope! Grief ebbs and flows, strong one moment, quiet the next. In the quiet moments, allow yourself to find peace in the traditions and sweet moments. And when those strong moments of grief come, allow yourself to feel them and remember that hope and peace will come again.

12/30/2025

Jesus X. Guajardo

Jesus X. Guajardo, a loving husband and father, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on December 15, 2025, at 3:13 AM in Sedona, AZ. He was born on October 17, 1937, in San Antonio, Texas, to Jose V. and Consuelo Guajardo. Jesus was a proud resident of Dover, DE, for many years. After serving for 20 years in the United States Air Force, he retired in 1975 and later pursued a career in sheet metal fabrication. A devout Catholic, he was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. He passed away just two days before his 69th wedding anniversary to Sylvia H. Guajardo. He is survived by his two sons, Jesse and Adrian, along with two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. His funeral will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Cottonwood, AZ, on January 17 at 11:00 AM.

View Jesus X. Guajardo's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/29/2025

David Vera

David J. Vera, Devoted husband and father passed away peacefully at home on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, where he has been cared for by his wife Pauline and Stepdaughter Crystal.

He was 78 years old and is survived by his wife of 32 years, Pauline, two sons David and Albert ( Terri ), Two daughters Theresa Vera Ortega ( Johnny ) and Davita Jackson with three stepdaughters Crystal Castillo, Tracy Miller, and Maribelle Guadiana Perez, along with many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

David was born in Jerome, Arizona and was a long time resident of the Verde Valley. He worked for the City of Jerome in his younger days, then spent 10 years mining is Tucson. He lastly worked for the City of Cottowood Water Department where he had many friends and a job he loved.

He will be greatly missed.

Memorial services will be held at Westcott Funeral Home, 1013 E. Mingus Ave, Cottonwood, AZ on January 16, 2026 at 1:00pm - 3:00pm.

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