In Passing

Marvin Brownell

Marvin (Marv) Eugene Brownell was born in Sweet Home, Ore., on Jan. 1, 1947, to Melvin Brownell and Ila (Millard) Brownell. He mainly grew up in Salem, Ore. He graduated from South Salem High School in 1965. He played on the basketball team and held the pole vaulting record for many years.

In the fall of 1965, Marv met Daniele Scott. He worked for one year, then he started going to Oregon State University in the fall of 1966. He and Daniele were married in the summer of 1967, and celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary in July 2025. Marv was in the Naval Reserve during his college years. He graduated from Oregon State University with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. He was a registered Professional Civil Engineer in the State of Alaska for over 50 years. Marv worked for several commercial construction companies in Alaska. He was a VSM engineer on sections 5 and 6 of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. He worked on, or built, over 100 bridges in Alaska. He took a short break from commercial construction and designed and built homes. In 2000, he and his wife started Yukon Construction, Inc., building bridges, docks, and commercial buildings.

He and his wife bought a house in 2016 in Sun Lakes, Ariz., and became snowbirds. In 2022, they became full–time residents. Marv was an avid pickleball player until two years ago. He had cancer and heart problems. The two finally collided and he passed away on Sept. 13, 2025.

He is survived by his wife, Daniele; daughter Marcy Gustafson (Eric); son Ryan Brownell (Liz); daughter Lindsay Lloyd (Jaymen); grandchildren Taylor Parsons, Tyler Gustafson (Rachel), Cody Gustafson (Layla), and Lauren Parsons; and great–grandsons Levi and Bodhi. He is also survived by his sister, Darlene Tibbs (Jerry), and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Oct. 25 in Salem, Ore.

Douglas Gail Williams

Douglas Gail Williams, 84, passed away peacefully with his wife Jeanne by his side. Words could never explain the massive void his passing has caused in our family. He led a life full of personal and professional accomplishments. His most proud achievement was being a loyal husband to his wife, dedicated father to his children, and the greatest “Papa” ever to his nine grandchildren.

Doug had an incredible sense of humor and a heart full of kindness. His love for his family and friends was unmeasurable. Doug will forever be missed but will NEVER be forgotten. Doug had many talents. To name a few, he was a music lover of all varieties, abstract painter, artist, guitar player, jewelry maker, ebay reseller, and boy could he dance. One thing he was not was a “wallflower.” At social events he could be found meeting new people, laughing, and engaging everyone with his humorous storytelling. He often walked into a room full of people he did not know and walked out with a few new friends.

Doug proudly worked for United Airlines for 43 years, serving in many different capacities in Marketing. He loved to travel and used his employment to share the world with his family. In retirement, he was successful in checking off many of their personal travel bucket list destinations.

He was happiest being active in his children’s and grandchildren’s lives, if someone had an activity going on he was likely present or watching via streaming. Afterward you could be assured that Papa would likely provide a post event play by play breakdown of the key moments. Doug loved skiing and spent a large portion of his life in Colorado, where he would eagerly await waking his kids up for a ski day. He was able to combine his love of skiing with his devotion to helping others when he became a volunteer special needs ski instructor. The highlight of his skiing career happened when he was able to ski/instruct with his grandson Zach.

Doug loved fashion/style and was the best dressed 84-year-old guy around. If you knew him, you probably called him Doug, Dougie, Dad, or Papa—but chances are that he called you his friend.

His Celebration of Life was held Oct. 10 in Sun Lakes.

Christine Elaine Butler

Christine Elaine Butler, age 73, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., formerly of Hays, Kan., passed away on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Mo. She was born on June 25, 1952, in Wichita, Kan., to Elmer and Marguerite “Bunny” (Hoffman) Hildenbrand.

She was a graduate of Wichita Heights High School in 1970 and Fort Hays State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree. Chris’s life was defined by her love for family, community, and the joy she found in connecting with others. On Dec. 29, 1973, she married Ralph “Buddy” Butler in Wichita, Kan., beginning a partnership filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Chris worked as a learning disabilities teacher in Victoria, Kan., for 18 years, making a lasting impact on the lives of countless students. She was also instrumental in helping to run the family business, Professional Rental Management. Outside of her professional life, Chris’s passions included sewing, quilting, crafting, cooking, and golfing, hobbies that reflected her creative spirit. She especially loved traveling, with Mexico being a frequent destination where she and Buddy enjoyed many cherished vacations.

Above all, Chris’s true joy came from being a wife, mother, and grandmother. Her family was her heart and soul. She will be remembered for her vibrant personality, warmth, and the way she effortlessly brought people together. Her sense of humor, her caring nature, and her unwavering devotion to her loved ones made her a beloved figure in every community she was a part of.

Chris is survived by her loving husband, Buddy, of Sun Lakes, Ariz.; sons, Michael Butler of Hays, Brian Butler and wife Samantha and their children, Lily and Ian, all of Hays; a brother-in-law, Frank Butler and wife Grace of Sun Lakes, Ariz.; nephews Bill Butler (Claire) of Frisco, Colo., Bob Butler (Christy) of Richardson, Texas, and niece Becky Barton (Mike) of Madison, Ohio; grandchildren Trenton Hendrix (Sneads Ferry, N.C.), Lacey Elkins of San Diego, and Jackson Elkins of Hays.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Marguerite “Bunny” Hildenbrand.

A celebration of Chris’s life was held on Oct. 11.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the FHSU Foundation, where a scholarship will be established in Chris’s honor.

Please share your memories of Chris on her tribute page at keithleyfuneralchapels.com.

Jack Duane Carlson

Jack Duane Carlson, 81, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away peacefully on Sept. 30, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his family and beloved wife, Diane.

Born to Blanche (Snook) and Carl “Wilbur” Carlson on Dec. 15, 1943, Jack grew up on a farm in Pine River, Minn., with his three siblings (Jerry, Gene, and Cheryl). Jack was a well-respected realtor/broker, practicing real estate as a husband-wife team with his loving wife of 37 years, Diane Carlson. Jack loved boating in his native Minnesota with his first mate Diane and was always eager to travel to new places. He was a dedicated Minnesota Vikings fan and was known for his great appreciation for cleanliness and order in all things. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Jack is survived by his wife Diane, children Cindy (CJ) Smith, Wendy (Wade) Bursch, Kevin (Laura) Carlson, stepdaughters Melissa (Tom) Polusny and Melanie Anderson, seven grandchildren, two great–grandsons, siblings Gene (Mavis), Cheryl (Milo) Hagen, and sister-in-law Jan. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Jerry.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at IronOaks in Sun Lakes, Ariz.

William Theodore Danner Jr.

William Theodore Danner Jr., a beloved and cherished resident of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away on Sept. 23, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on March 27, 1931, in Shawnee, Okla., William led a life marked by dedication, service, and love for his family, church, and community.

William earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Oklahoma State University, where he began to forge a path of excellence and commitment. His career was distinguished by his service in the United States Air Force, specifically within the Strategic Air Command. After his military service, he retired from a successful career as Treasurer of Mountain Bell and Executive Director at U.S. West Communications.

He was married to Shirley Ann Danner for 69 wonderful years until her passing. Together, they built a loving family that includes their sons Ron (Denise), Dan (Cindy), and Bill Danner III. William was also a proud grandfather to Derek (Maggie), Kara, Ben, Tim, Bryce (Beth), Liam, Ellie, Casey, and Kahle, as well as a great-grandfather to Emma.

In his personal life, William enjoyed playing tennis, golf, and racquetball. He was a member of the Compass Christian Church and the Phi Kappa Phi Honorary Fraternity, reflecting his commitment to faith and community involvement.

William Theodore Danner Jr. will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his honorable service to his country, and his contributions to his church and community. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.

Robert (Bob) Elsworth Deken

Robert (Bob) Elsworth Deken, 86, longtime resident of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away peacefully at Estancia at Sunnydale in Chandler, Ariz., on Sept. 28, 2025.

Bob was born on Jan. 8, 1939, in Adrian, Mich. He graduated from Indiana State University in 1962 with a B.S. degree in Business Education and Physical Education. After college, Bob taught high school business classes and drivers ed and coached basketball and football.

After moving to Ohio, Bob did tax services at Montgomery Ward and then formed his own tax and accounting practice in Copley, Ohio, with a second office in Medina, Ohio. He became a certified CPA in the State of Ohio. After selling his practice, he became the financial controller for Perfection Mold and Machine Co. in Akron, Ohio.

Bob loved sports and played senior softball with the Akron Silver League for many years and served as treasurer and president. In addition, he formed a senior softball travel team, the Akron Rebels, which played in senior men’s softball tournaments in multiple states and Canada in the summers.

In 1997, he and his wife Vicki built a home in Sun Lakes, Ariz., but were snowbirds for seven years. They moved permanently to Sun Lakes in 2004 and have had a wonderful life here. He served in various positions on the IronOaks HOA board in various committees, Building and Grounds, Finance, Elections, Treasurer, and one year as President in 2008. In 2014, he received the Crystal Award for outstanding service to the community. He acquired a tax and accounting practice, TJM Accounting and Tax Services, which he operated for a number of years in Sun Lakes. Bob was a member of the Sun Lakes United Methodist Church.

In Sun Lakes, he enjoyed playing senior softball at the Field of Dreams for many years and then transitioned to golf, playing in IMGA and Oakwood Niners, where he had several holes-in-one, much to his delight.

Bob is preceded in death by parents Everett and Ethel (Moore) Deken, sisters Doris Pyle and Grace Kaledo, brothers Ramon Deken and Everett Deken, a twin brother. He is survived by his wife of 39 years Victoria (Vicki); sister Carol Gauthier, daughters Cheryl Wirtley, Karleen Matthews, Wendy Wirtz, and stepdaughter Jennifer Janis, plus many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at the Sun Lakes United Methodist Church on Nov. 8, 2025, at 11 a.m.

Janet Leila East

Surrounded by family and friends, Janet Leila East, 78, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., left us peacefully in the afternoon on July 26, 2025.

Born Feb. 4, 1947, in Urbana, Ill., Jan grew up in Southside Chicago in the “region,” Calumet City. She was an only daughter from her late parents, Aitken and Ina (Ahlgrim) Young, and sister to her late brother, Robert A. Young.

Jan participated in many different sports. She loved ice skating, tennis, running, swimming, and even competed in slalom water skiing.

Jan received a four–year full scholarship out of high school, but she was not ready for more schooling so gave the scholarship back to the school where Aitken was principal. Of course, he was not happy! Janet made a promise she would get her degree later.

Jan got her first factory job in Calumet City. The avid reader she was, Jan sat outside the factory doors for lunch and to read her book. A couple older coworkers asked her if she would read to them since they could not read, and she did.

Janet married Ronald P. Hemby in October ’67 and he entered the U.S. Army in 1973. Jan finished her B.S. degree from Troy State University in Alabama. Her folks were very proud! Jan loved to travel and meet new people. She traveled to Ron’s assignment in Korea. She spent 18 months near Seoul, Korea, and learned to respect other cultures. Her job there was in Educational Services, which she very much enjoyed.

After they were assigned to Fort Riley, Kan., Jason A. Hemby was born in 1977. Jan quit working but while J.C. was sleeping, she studied for her master’s degree. Jan’s next milestone was receiving her master’s degree in Adult Occupation from Kansas State.

Another assignment was Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Jan worked for the U.S. Forest Service in Ketchikan, Alaska. After more than 23 moves, she finally decided to plunge into a Juvenile Probation Officer position, a State of Alaska job, and not have to move. Because of her oral and written communication skills, supervisory skills, community involvement, integrity, personality, intelligence, kindness, and love of people, Jan was a perfect fit to help the kids and parents and/or grandparents.

Jan met her soulmate in 2008 and married Robert J. East on Oct. 16, 2009. Jan retired in 2013, had three grandkids from J.C. but gained another son, Robert, and daughter, Lori, plus six more grandkids and a great–grandson after marrying Bob. She traveled a lot after marrying Bob and took special pride in all the family, friends, and relatives. To Bob, Jan was perfect in his eyes!

A service will be held at Cottonwood Country Club, Sun Lakes, Ariz., in the Saguaro Room on Nov. 9, 2025, from 1 to 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite local charity.

Tommy Lee (Tom) Kersnick

Tommy Lee “Tom” Kersnick, 82, passed away peacefully on Aug. 31, 2025, in Sun Lakes, Ariz. Born in St. Joseph, Mo., Tom lived a full and meaningful life marked by dedication to his work, service to his country, and deep love for his family.

Tom began his professional journey in the beef industry, where he built a successful career wholesaling beef on both national and international markets. His expertise and commitment to excellence earned him respect throughout the industry. He concluded his career with Packerland Packaging, retiring in January 2009 after years of hard work and leadership.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Tom proudly served in the Air National Guard in St. Joseph, Mo., from 1965 to November 1971. His time in the military reflected his strong sense of duty and patriotism. Tom was a man of many interests. He found joy in hiking through nature’s beauty, immersing himself in books as an avid reader, and following sports with great enthusiasm. These passions brought him happiness and enriched the lives of those around him.

He is survived by his beloved wife Marion Kersnick; his son Tommy L. Kersnick Jr.; and granddaughters Brooke Blackwell, Brittain Whitaker, and Brighton Majerus. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Frances and Albert Kersnick; and his stepson Byron Brent Blackwell.

Tom will be dearly missed and fondly remembered for his vibrant spirit, kindness, and the lasting impact he made on his family and friends. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

Michael William Leddy

An Amazing Life of Laughter and Love

Michael William Leddy, a man whose vibrant spirit and infectious joy touched everyone he met, passed away on Oct. 8, 2025, after living an incredible and full life. Born on July 1, 1928, in the heart of Govan, Scotland, Michael was a true character who carried the warmth and wit of his birthplace with him around the world.

A Journey Across Continents

In 1953, Michael, along with his then-wife Margaret and their son Ronnie, embarked on a new adventure, moving to Canada. It was there that their family grew with the births of his sons Paul and Brian. A decade later, in 1963, Michael once again moved his family, this time to sunny California.

In California, Michael put his considerable talents to work as a carpenter, crafting and building for a roster of clients that even included several celebrities. He lived a great life there, but the call for a new landscape eventually led him to Arizona in the 1990s.

The Arizona Years: A Life of Leisure and Adventure

Arizona opened a wonderful new chapter in Michael’s life. He and his late wife, Edna, embraced the active Arizona lifestyle with gusto. Their days were filled with golf, dancing, bowling, and karaoke. They were passionate about cruising, exploring the world one ship at a time.

Michael’s true passion, however, was in entertainment and giving back. He and Edna dedicated countless hours to putting on fantastic production and shows for the Ronald McDonald House and other local organizations. Michael loved the spotlight and the sheer joy of making people smile.

A Character Who Made the World Happy

To know Michael was to be happy. He was, above all, a character—a man whose humor, warmth, and easygoing nature made every room brighter. He had a gift for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary and ensuring everyone around him felt included and loved. His zest for life was a palpable force that will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Michael is survived by his loving son, Brian Leddy, and Brian and family, who will carry his memory in their hearts.

Julian Shelburne Pickens

Dr. Julian Shelburne Pickens of Sun Lakes, Ariz., beloved husband of Marilyn Petrie-Pickens, passed away on Sept. 17, 2025.

Julian was born in Alexander City, Ala., on Jan. 7, 1939. His parents were James Dee Pickens and Julia Annie Royer Pickens. He graduated from high school in Tazewell, Va., where he was on the football team, lettered in baseball, president of the senior class, and participated in Boys State. He was voted “Best Senior” in his class. He continued his education at University of Virginia for a year, then moved on to the University of Northern Alabama, where he received a Bachelor of Science in 1962. Julian served in the U.S. Army as an Intelligence Officer and spent two years in Korea. He later continued his education at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where he earned the degree of Doctor of Education. It was at this juncture in his life that he decided to devote himself to helping people in addiction. He served as a Program Director of Valley Hope and later went into private practice as a substance abuse counselor, a marriage and family therapist, and as an interventionist.

Julian’s participation in the community included being Charter President of Crown Rotary Club of Sun Lakes. He served as Post Chaplain for Veterans of Foreign Wars and their families.

Julian was founder of the Sun Lakes United Methodist Church Adult School Class and taught that class for over 20 years. Julian was a devout Christian and a loving and caring person who helped many people. But when it came to fun, golf was his love and he excelled by achieving at least 12 holes–in–one. He never missed an Alabama football game (Rolltide)! He will be missed by his family and many friends.

Julian was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, James D. Pickens; and his sister, Annie Dee Bryan. He is survived by his wife Marilyn, after 28 years of happy marriage. He is survived by a nephew, James Pickens, and nieces, Celia Griggs, Paige Chastain, and Dee Alice Brentlinger. Also surviving is his stepson, Daniel Petrie, and step–grandchildren, Daniel and Sarah Petrie. Also surviving are Anthony Moseley, son–in–law, and additional step–grandchildren are Adam Moseley (Ashlyn), Peter Moseley (Sammy), Nate Moseley, and a step-great-grandchild Miles Julian Moseley.

A memorial service to honor this great man was held at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church on Oct. 11.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be directed to New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, 3939 Gentilly Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70126, Attn: Mr. Mark Hagelman.

Donald Hale Reese

Donald Hale Reese, 80, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025, in Chandler, Ariz.

Born on Jan. 18, 1945, in Seattle, Wash., to Harold and Margaret Reese, Don grew up on an apple orchard in Cashmere, Wash., alongside his siblings. It was there he learned the value of hard work and the joy of life.

At a dance, Don met Peggy Capps Kytle. They had two children, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Being “Papa” was a role he cherished above all else.

After a scheduled break from his work in eastern Washington, Don joined his brother Tom in western Washington building homes. He loved construction and never went back. Bellevue, Wash., became his home where he raised his family. He eventually ended up buying WR Hanson, the company where he dedicated decades of work.

Don served as a volunteer firefighter for the Bellevue Fire Department from 1967-1974. He passionately coached baseball and basketball for his son and grandchildren, becoming a devoted fan of Issaquah High School Baseball, Lakeside Recovery, and Tahoma High School sports—or any team a family member played on, or his son Rob coached. His presence at family games and activities was constant; if not there in person, he was watching online.

Family and friends were everything to Don. He retired from WR Hanson in 2013 to care for his beloved wife Peggy during her illness. She taught him to cook and care for himself, which she had done for him for 51 years.

Don found joy in fishing, crabbing, and watching sports, especially baseball and football. Later in life, he embraced golfing, a new passion introduced by friends.

In 2016, Don met Melea Johnson. They married and enjoyed eight wonderful years together, becoming “snowbirds” and traveling. They moved to Arizona in 2023, living a lifetime of memories in their short time. Don embraced Melea’s family, becoming a cherished friend to her five children and their spouses and a beloved grandpa to her 18 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Peggy; brothers Bill and Bob; and granddaughter Payton.

He is survived by his wife, Melea; son Rob Reese (Tami), grandson Todd Reese (Kylie) and great-grandson Easton Reese, and grandson Tyler Reese (Jade); daughter Monica White (Brian), granddaughter Kim Comstock (Dan) and great-granddaughter Oaklee, and grandson Zach White (Marissa) and great-grandchildren Markus, Madison, and Marshall. He also leaves behind his brother Tom Reese (Carol), sister Bonnie Manowski, numerous sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Don’s family and friends meant everything to him, and he dedicated his life to taking exceptional care of them. He will be deeply missed by all who know him. His legacy will live on through those he loved.

Thomas Charles Reese

Thomas Charles Reese was called home and passed peacefully on Sept. 22, 2025, in Chandler, Ariz., surrounded by family and friends.

Tom was born May 25, 1940 in Huron, S.D., to Harold and Margaret Reese. He was raised in Cashmere, Wash., on an apple orchard. He helped his dad with the orchard and worked at Tiny’s during high school years. He graduated in 1959 and enlisted in the U.S. Army. He went to basic training in Fort Hood, Texas. He served his country proudly for three years before returning to Seattle, Wash.

He married Carol in 1964 on the 4th of July. It was the best love story ever for 61 years. He loved telling friends he met Carol at the King County Jail. He did that because that’s where they obtained their marriage license.

Tom spent his life working in construction. He owned several very successful companies in the Seattle area, building homes and medical facilities. He won awards for his accomplishments.

Tom enjoyed a lot of recreation time with his family, but his true passion was golf. When he retired in 2000, he rebuilt his cabin on Whidbey Island into a retirement home where they enjoyed another 10 years golfing, crabbing, clamming, fishing, and boating with friends and family. Winters proved to be long and gloomy so vacations to Arizona became the norm. The sunshine won out over the rain and they purchased a house, built a pool and created their new paradise in the desert of Sun Lakes, Ariz.

Tom was a Seahawks fan but no matter where he lived, he always cheered on the home team.  Tom was a joy to be with. He had a laugh like no other. Golf buddies liked to ride with him because he laughed until the cart shook. He will be deeply missed; he’s out of sight but never will leave our hearts.

Tom is survived by his wife, Carol, and children, Shammera Start (Tim), Hawaii; Jeff Reese (Denise), Washington; Jeff and Shelly Brock, Washington; sister Bonnie Manowski, Washington; grandchildren, Brandon, Chantelle, Taylor; also five great–grandchildren.

Preceding him in death, parents, Harold and Margaret Reese, son Ricky Reese, brothers, William F. Reese, Donald H. Reese, and Robert L. Reese.

A Military Honors Ceremony will be at the National Cemetery of Arizona. To celebrate his life, an open house will be Nov. 26, at 2 p.m., 26625 S. Nottingham Ct., Sun Lakes, Ariz.

Donna Jean Scaggs-Ward

Donna Jean Scaggs-Ward, 94, passed away on Oct. 4, 2025. She was born on Nov. 17, 1930, in the small town of Powhattan, Kan. After living in the Central Valley of California for most of her life she moved to Sun Lakes, Ariz., in 1995.

Donna’s greatest joy was spending time with family and friends, and she had a gift for nurturing deep and long–lasting relationships. She also had a great many talents and hobbies. She was an accomplished tole painter, seamstress, and decorator, and kept a beautiful home and garden for many years. She also loved playing cards with her friends and working crossword and jigsaw puzzles.

Donna is survived by her son Dan Scaggs of Mesa, Ariz., and her daughter Suzanne and son-in-law Gary Siefker of Phoenix. She was blessed with five grandchildren, Margaret, Daniel, Kenneth, Thomas, and Dani, and 10 great–grandchildren.

Donna will be laid to rest along with her late husband, Kenneth, at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. No formal services are held at this time.

Anne E. Wiley

Anne Wiley of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away peacefully of natural causes on Oct. 5, 2025, after a fulfilling life of 97 years.

She was born on March 7, 1928, in York, Pa. Her parents were Frank and Grace Gosnell.

She worked as a PA Bell telephone operator in her teenage years in York and later for Mountain Bell in Arizona.

She met and married her high school love, Charles L. Wiley, in 1946 and they moved to Arizona in 1948 because of her asthma.

She is survived by her two children: Frank Wiley (Katie) and Sue Hawkins (Jim), grandsons: Brian Hawkins (Naomi) and Matthew Hawkins (Kelli), and great-grandchildren: Nicholas Hawkins (Maggie), Grace Hawkins, Rex Hawkins, Tyler Hawkins, Kaylee Merritt, and Archer Merritt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Grace Gosnell; her husband of 45 years, Charles; and her granddaughter, Beth Wiley Merritt.

She loved this country and the beautiful state of Arizona, especially the mountains and the amazing sunsets.

Important in her life was her Christianity, her family, and her friends. She was a loving and caring person who attributed her longevity to the felicitous move to the Arizona climate. She was a voice of wisdom and grace and an example of a life well lived.

A memorial service will be held at the Sun Lakes United Methodist Church on Saturday, Nov. 22 at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the American Diabetes Association.