Palm Valley Funeral Home

12/16/2025

Ellen Marie Wickard

February 4, 1955 – December 9, 2025

Ellen Marie (Butler) Wickard passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at her home in Peoria, AZ. She was 70 years old.

Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph I. Butler and Dorothy L. Butler, late husband Julian J. Jaramillo, and stepdaughter Shuvonne M. Wickard.

She is survived by her husband Kirk P. Wickard, son Julian J. Jaramillo, daughter Danielle M. Burger, granddaughter Emma M. Sandoval, brother Joseph I. (Chela) Butler, as well as many cherished step grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Ellen was born in Peabody, MA. Along with her parents Joseph and Dorothy and her brother Joseph, the family moved to Santa Fe, NM in 1960. She attended St. Francis School, Loretto Academy, St. Michael’s High School, and Santa Fe High School. Following high school, she worked various jobs in the Santa Fe area before relocating to Phoenix, AZ, in 1989. The land of the sun would be her home for the next 36 years.

Ellen worked as an accountant for Black Angus restaurant in Phoenix before landing a permanent position as a tech specialist with Charles Schwab, where she worked for over 20 years.

Wherever she was, Ellen Machine Gun Wickard was the funniest person in the room and always the life of the party. She loved to cook and entertain, was an avid skier, tennis player, and adventure seeker. No adventure was beyond her grasp, and on a moment's notice, she and her husband would often spontaneously decide to take a road trip to experience something new.

Ellen’s kids inherited her adventurous genes and often went on quests together. Even having a blast from the most mundane car rides to yard sales, making up their own lyrics to songs, and floating down the Salt River in Arizona. Her kids and family were the most important things in her life. Ellen’s door was always open to everyone, and they definitely took advantage of this. She loved attending spring training games, and her golden years were spent hosting pool parties for housefuls of family and friends while feeding them the best weird comfort food like sh*t-on-a-shingle or goulash.

Ellen and her silly jokes will always be missed. Love you, Mama,

12/16/2025

Marian May Harvey Hoot Obituary

Marian May Harvey Hoot, 82, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully in her home on December 10, 2025.

Born on November 23,1943, to Walter Marion Harvey and Lorene Joe Harvey. Marian lived a life filled with love and devotion to her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Phillip M. Hoot.

Marian is survived by her loving daughter, Currie Hemenway, and son-in-law, Michael Hemenway; as well as her cherished grandchildren, Tatum Hemenway and Ty Hemenway. And siblings Gerald Harvey, Keith Harvey, and Janiece Day.

She was a graduate and devoted fan of the University of Oklahoma, cheering faithfully every season for OU Sooners football. Nothing delighted her more than spending quality time with her family, attending grandchildren's sporting events, and friends playing cards, creating cherished memories filled with laughter and love.

She will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to SOuL, a cause dear to Marian’s heart. Contributions can be made securely via Zelle by adding the recipient "Smiling Out Loud" and using the tag “Soulhoot. Please include "Marian’s Memorial" in the memo. Your generosity honors Marian’s passion for this cause.

12/01/2025

Jessie T. Amavisca, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her residence on November 25, 2025, at the age of 94. Born in Phoenix, Arizona, on December 25, 1930, to Theresa and Francisco Trujillo, Jessie was a Christmas blessing who carried warmth, compassion, and strength throughout her life.

Jessie grew up in a close-knit family and learned early the value of hard work, humility, and faith. These qualities shaped her into the strong and loving woman who became the heart of her own growing family. She married the love of her life, Jose Lorenzo Amavisca, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and deep devotion to their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a proud and nurturing mother to Jose “Joey” Amavisca Jr., Frederico “Freddy” Amavisca (deceased), and Anna M. Arismendez.

Jessie’s dedication to her family was unwavering—she was the constant source of comfort, direction, and unconditional love. As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she was cherished for her gentle presence, her warm embraces, and the wisdom she shared so generously. Her legacy will continue through the many lives she touched with her kindness, patience, and strength.

Jessie will be remembered not only for her devotion to her family but also for her resilience, her quiet courage, and her ability to bring people together. Whether through her thoughtful words, her calm guidance, or the simple comfort of her company, she made everyone around her feel valued and loved.

A funeral service honoring Jessie’s life will be held at Palm Valley Funeral Home, located at 10761 Grand Ave, Sun City, AZ 85351, on December 4,2025, at 9:00 AM. Following the service, she will be escorted to Glendale Cemetery, located at 7844 N. 61st Avenue, Glendale, AZ, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband and son.

Her family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with those she deeply missed, and her memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who loved her.
great-grandchildren

12/01/2025

🕊️ In Loving Memory of Ashaya Patricia Michelle “Shy Shy” Baez

Born: July 25 2003
Passed: November 2025

Ashaya Patricia Michelle Baez, affectionately known to all as Shy Shy, left this world far too soon at the age of 22. She was a sweet and vibrant soul whose laughter could fill any room and whose love for music echoed through every moment of her life.

Ashaya’s gentle heart and playful spirit touched everyone she met. She had a gift for making her younger siblings — Dakota, Javi, Tavi, and Bella — laugh until their sides hurt, always reminding them that joy could be found even in the simplest moments.

She is deeply loved and will be forever remembered by her mother Amber Baez, her father Javier Baez,, siblings sisters Dakota and Bella her Brothers Javier and Ativous Baez her grandmother Elizabeth Coley, and her extended family — Shnnee P, Ronald Coley, Jaime Ontiveros, Rusty Coley, and aunts Ernestina Ontiveros and Jamie Ontiveros.

Ashaya’s passion for music, her laughter, and her beautiful energy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her most. Though her time here was short, her spirit leaves behind a legacy of light, rhythm, and love.

May her melody play on forever. 🎶💖

11/24/2025

11/18/2025

Honoring the Loved Ones We Have Lost.

As the lights shine bright, we remember those whose light still lives within us. Join us for an evening filled with love, reflection, and community as we honor the beautiful souls who will forever remain in our hearts.

💫 You are invited to add an ornament to our tree in honor of your lost loved ones.

We will have Carolers to sing, along with hot chocolate and cookies to enjoy as we gather together.

✨ All are welcome to attend and share in this heartfelt moment of remembrance. We hope to see you there!

11/03/2025

This season of gratitude, we are coming together to help families in need within our community.
We will be collecting non-perishable food items to provide Thanksgiving meals to those who may otherwise go without. Please let us know if you would like to help.

10/24/2025

Robert Ashcraft Sr. Long time resident of Sun City, AZ passed away at home October 17th. 2025. Born in Pine Bluff W.VA to parents Rexie & Louise Ashcraft. Robert is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 yrs. Patsy, both parents, and older brother Ralph. Robert is survived by his sister Ruth and brother Richard, his 3 children, Cynthia, Debbie, and son Robert Jr. He had 13 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and 2 great, great grandchildren. Robert fought for his health for many years and gave it all he had. God decided to set him free! He will truly be missed and always loved by all!

10/17/2025

Vallory Starr Strong
January 21, 1994 – October 15, 2025
Vallory Starr Strong (Luna) was born on January 21, 1995, in Bakersfield, California, to Rossellvia Villarreal and Paul Luna Jr. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished sister, and loyal friend whose warmth and laughter brightened the lives of everyone around her.
Vallory was married to the love of her life, Angel Lerma, and together they built a beautiful blended family of six children: sons Nicholas Strong Jr., Adolph Lerma, Theodore Lerma, and Tilian Lerma, and daughters Natalie Strong and Audrey Lerma. Her children were truly her world—she often said that being their mother was her greatest joy and accomplishment.
She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Rossellvia Villarreal and Paul Luna Jr., and is survived by her six children; her sisters Vanessa Cruz, Veronica Arellano, and Violette Luna (Larrissa Barber); and her nephews Jesse, Julian, and Johnny Gaona (Vanessa), Anthony and Samuel Sandoval (Veronica), and Izaiah Luna-Kelly (Violette).
Vallory’s kind heart, playful humor, and fierce love for her family will never be forgotten. She had a gift for making others laugh with her quick wit and silly sayings, and she found joy in the simple moments of motherhood. Her favorite animal was the giraffe—a symbol of grace and strength—and her favorite color, purple, perfectly reflected her vibrant spirit.
Vallory’s legacy lives on through her children, whose lives will forever be shaped by the unconditional love and light she gave so freely.

Services will be held at Palm Valley Funeral Home from 4:30pm to 7:00pm on Saturday, October 18,2025.

10/08/2025

Robert C. Stewart Jr.

With heavy hearts and deep love, we share the passing of Robert C. Stewart Jr. (Rob), an extraordinary man whose presence left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Born and raised in Spokane, Washington, Rob lived there until 1995, when his career led him and his family to relocate to Seattle. He forged a successful path in logistics and distribution management, leading by example and inspiring those around him with his strong work ethic.

Rob passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on September 24th, 2025, in his home in Sun City, AZ. He was surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and unwavering compassion.

Rob is survived by his wife and best friend, Cheri Stewart, his four daughters: Heather, Shawna, Lynn, and Kelci, loving mother Dorene Tiffany, sisters Chris, Cindy, Cathy, his brothers Dave and Scott, and grandchildren Lucas and Leah. His love extended to everyone, and he took deep pride in the connections he nurtured - rooted in kindness, joy, and a spirit of togetherness.

To know Rob was to know unconditional love. He had a rare gift for making people feel seen, heard, and deeply cared for. A gentle giant in every sense, he carried himself with humility and grace, always putting others before himself.

Rob’s quiet nature only amplified the strength of his presence. Whether through a comforting word, a warm hug, or a quiet act of service, he made the world a better place simply by being in it.

Rob is deeply missed and will be loved for eternity.

Rest gently, Rob. You were truly one of a kind.

For details on Rob’s celebration of life - 12/6/25 in Sun City, AZ, please contact his daughter, Kelci Stewart, by text/phone at 253-569-8130.

09/30/2025

Roy T. Ertz of Glendale, AZ, died September 20, 2025, at Hospice of the Valley in Glendale, Arizona. Born Feb. 26, 1944, in Burlington, IA, he was the oldest son of Roy C. and Betty Ertz. He was a graduate of Notre Dame High School, class of '62. After High School, he worked briefly for his father before joining the Air Force. He
served honorably in the Air Force. While stationed in Alaska, he was there during the great Alaskan earthquake in 1964. After the Air Force, he became a Deputy Sheriff for Des Moines County. Later, he was a Trainer for the Iowa Dept of Public Safety. He also served in the National Guard along with his father and brother.
In the late 80’s he moved to Arizona and attended Northern Arizona University. He graduated in 1991, Magna Cum Laude, Bachelor of Science in Education, SpEd (LD)/Elementary Ed K-12 and Regular Ed K-8. After college, he went to work for the AZ Department of Corrections as a Special Education teacher at the Juvenile Prison. Later, he went to work at the Adult Prison and specialized in writing IEPs (Individualized Education Plan).
Roy retired from the AZ Dept of Corrections and remained living in Glendale, Arizona until his death.

Roy stayed busy walking and working out for years and was involved in multiple fitness groups and gyms where he met his Yogi Pals, Personal Fitness and Nutrition Trainers. They all cared deeply for Roy. A well-rounded group, they covered all bases, caring for Roy’s Physical, Mental, Social, and Spiritual well-being. He was a very fortunate man to have such a great circle of friends.
His door was always open to all – visitors, neighbors, family and even the occasional salesperson. In his living room, in one corner, you would find an assortment of exercise equipment. The other corner was his Spiritual and Prayer corner, where he set up his personal altar. Several of his Yogi Pals, Personal Fitness Trainers, Nutritionists, and Hairdressers made “house calls” to care for Roy. He often requested 1:1 care, and they obliged. He liked the
attention, friendship and felt very loved. Roy was also fortunate to have some wonderful neighbors who assisted him often, especially after his youngest brother, Joseph (Christine), moved back to Iowa. The neighbors kept a keen eye on him. Helping him with chores, digital equipment, electronics, transportation, nutrition, and friendship. His neighbors are some of the finest folks you will find.
Roy was an active member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church in Glendale, AZ. There, he served as a lector for many years and volunteered with the St. Vincent de Paul Society. He belonged to the Knights of Columbus and VFW. Roy is survived by his Brother Robert “Bo” (Laura) Ertz of Columbia MO,
sister Mary (Gordon) Cho of Aiea, Hawaii, Brother Timothy (Vicki) Ertz of Somerville, Al, Sister Angela (Kirk) Angeron of Hammond, LA, Brother Mark of Burlington, IA, Brother Joseph (Christine) Ertz of West Burlington, IA. Roy was preceded in death by his Parents, Roy C. and Betty Ertz, Sister Martha Smith, Nephew Nathan Ertz, great-nephew Mitchell Ertz, Great great-great-niece Marissa Ertz. Roy’s Novena Prayer began September 12, 2025, and ended September 20, 2025. In accordance with his wishes, cremation took place. The family invites you to honor his memory by supporting The St. Vincent de Paul Chapter at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Glendale, AZ, or the Improvement Fund, Supporting Catholic Education, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Glendale, AZ. His cremated remains will be interred in a family plot in his hometown next to his parents and younger sister. The family is currently making plans for his Celebration of Life to be held at a later date.

09/20/2025

Peter Carl Mehlich, aged 60, of Surprise, Arizona, passed away on September 18, 2025, after a long illness.

Peter was born on February 2, 1965, in Waterloo, Iowa. He was a graduate of Waterloo West High School and the University of Northern Iowa. After owning his own gift shop in Waterloo, he moved to the Phoenix area where he worked in retail and as a realtor. He enjoyed people, collecting, dining with friends and family, and watching movies that made him laugh. He was known for his sense of style and his love of beauty.

He is survived by his sister Karin (James) Cowger of Ankeny, Iowa, and many friends and former co-workers. He was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Hildegard Mehlich. He will be missed by friends and family alike.