Obituaries - Navajo Times

Peggy Ann Lee

KIRTLAND, N.M. — Funeral services for Peggy Ann Lee, 71, of Shiprock, will be held today, April 22, at 12 p.m., at Cope Memorial Chapel in Kirtland, New Mexico. Burial will follow at the Shiprock cemetery.

Peggy was born July 17, 1949, in Beclabito, New Mexico, into the Oozéí Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), born for Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). Her nalí is ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People); cheii is Kinłichíi’nii (Red House People). She passed away April 16, 2021, in Aztec, New Mexico.

Peggy attended Shiprock High School and was employed as an education aide. She enjoyed cooking, baking and crafts.

Peggy is survived by her sisters, Betty A. Lee and JoAnn John; and brothers, John T. Lee, Davis A. Lee, Emerson T. Lee, and Walter L. Lee.

Peggy is preceded in death by her mother, Sally A. Lee; father, Tom D. Lee; sister, Hazel A. Victor; brothers, Herman T. Lee and Samuel T. Lee; and niece, Nancy Victor.

Pallbearers will be Gabriel Beyuka, Wilbert John Jr., David J. Lee, Cameron L. Lee, Quanah T. Chapman, Brian A. Lee, Tommy D. Nez, and Larry K. Nez.

Honorary pallbearers are Betty A. Lee, JoAnn John, John T. Lee, Davis A. Lee, Emerson T. Lee, and Walter L. Lee.

Cope Memorial is in charge of arrangements.

Josephine Ann Charlie

CORNFIELDS, Ariz. — Graveside service for Josephine Ann Charlie, 56, of Cornfields, Arizona, was held April 21 at the Taliman family plot in Cornfields, with Janelle and Olin Bluehouse officiating.

Josephine was born Sept. 10, 1964, in Dallas, Texas, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). She passed away April 14, 2021, in Cornfields.

Josephine earned a bachelor’s degree in radiology and was employed as a radiologist. She enjoyed gardening and loved her grandchildren.

Josephine is survived by her son, Dwight Smith; daughters, Vanessa Smith and Tiffany Smith; mother, Angela Charley; brothers, Joseph Charley, Jerome Charley, Winfred Charley, and Jasper Charley; sister, Joyce Olivas; maternal grandparents, Dahasbah and Tom Taliman; paternal grandmother, Dorthey Garcia-Charley; and five grandchildren.

Josephine is preceded in death by her son, Nolan White; and father, James Charley.

Pallbearers were Joseph Charley, Jerome Charley, Winfred Charley, Jasper Charley, Dwight Smith, and Keith Long.

Honorary pallbearers are Myles White, Jeral Benally, Anthony Long, Antoine Panther, and Ben Long Jr.

Summit Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Jimmy Curtis Shorty

ALBUQUERQUE — Viewing for Jimmy Curtis Shorty, 84, will take place Friday, April 23, at 2 p.m., at Daniels Funeral Home (7601 Wyoming Blvd.) in Albuquerque, followed by a celebration of life at the Shorty residence.

Jimmy was born April 15, 1937, in Rehoboth, New Mexico. He peacefully passed away April 17, 2021, surrounded by his family.

Jimmy was the third oldest of six siblings. He grew up in a humble environment and knew hard work early on by herding sheep in the canyons of Coyote Canyon, New Mexico.

Jimmy graduated from St. Michael’s High School in 1957 and was the secretary of his senior class. He participated in the Glee Club, Knight of the Altar, class treasurer, feature editor of Coxocoi, and Sodality perfect 4th year.

Jimmy earned his bachelor’s degree in geology in 1961 and was drafted into the Army the same year. He served for two years working as a court reporter because of his knowledge of shorthand. He received his honorable discharge in 1963.

Jimmy then attended the University of New Mexico where he received his Ph.D. in law and worked as a geologist for the tribal water department. He worked as an assistant to the president of the Navajo Tribe.

Jimmy also worked as an educator for Sandia National Laboratories in 1983 where he retired from in 2007. He was well known within the Navajo Tribe and spoke fluently in the Navajo language.

Jimmy was known as the wise friend, whom everyone trusted and respected. He was known as “Papa” and he instilled discipline, integrity and good moral values within his children and grandchildren.

Jimmy would share his life stories with anyone who would listen. He had a strong connection to his Native American culture and would share those traditions with the family.

Jimmy truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures. He will be sorely missed, but we will remember him through his teachings and stories.

Jimmy is survived by his adoring wife, Patricia Shorty (shimá) of 54 years; sons, Richard and Patrick Shorty; and two granddaughters and four great-grandchildren.

Jimmy is preceded in death by his mother, Nasbah Begay; father, Robert Shorty; son, Gregg Shorty; sister, Edna Nunes; and many others who are waiting for him with open arms.

Following cremation, a mass will be held at Risen Savior Catholic Church at a later date.

Sally Ann Billiman

WHITE CLAY, Ariz. — Graveside service for Sally Ann Billiman, 76, of White Clay, Arizona, was held April 19 with Roger Kenny officiating.

Sally was born Aug. 21, 1944, in Ganado, Arizona, into the Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), born for Honágháahnii (One-walks-around Clan). She passed away April 12, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Sally attended school in Fort Defiance and in Brigham City, Utah. She worked at General Dynamics and was secretary for a grazing officer alongside her husband for 37 years.

Summit Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Karla Antoinette Curley

BIRDSPRINGS, Ariz. — Graveside service for Karla Antoinette Curley, 45, of Birdsprings, Arizona, was held April 19 at the Curtis Cemetery in Birdsprings.

Karla was born March 10, 1976, in Los Angeles, California, born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). Her cheii is ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan). She passed away April 12, 2021, in Gallup.

Karla attended Apollo College enrolled in the medical assistant program.

Karla is survived by her child, Raven D. Wauneka; mother, Harriett Curley; sister, Harryette L. Curley; and grandmother, Louise Curley.

Karla is preceded in death by Harris Curley.

Pallbearers were Mychal Pete, Corey Pete, Cordell Pete, Kee Yazzie, and Seth Yazzie.

Honorary pallbearers are Tammy Curley and Tina Scott.

Greer’s Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Wilfred Joe Morris

OLD COALMINE, N.M. — Graveside service for Wilfred Joe Morris, 59, of Fort Defiance, was held April 21 at the family plot in Old Coalmine, New Mexico, with Rev. Cathlena Plummer officiating.

Wilfred was born July 19, 1961, in Fort Defiance, into the ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan), born for Hashtl’ishnii (Mud Clan). He passed away April 13, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Wilfred graduated from Many Farms High School in 1981 and as a diesel mechanic in 1982. He was employed with Frontier Communications as a sales service technician for 24 years.

Wilfred loved the outdoors and enjoyed watching the Arizona Cardinals, traveling, working on vehicles, eating at Hooters, riding his motorcycle, and spending time with his nephews and friends.

Wilfred is survived by his sweetheart, Elvina Shurley; sons, Gerard Morris of Albuquerque, and Adrian Morris of Pinedale, New Mexico; daughter, Autumn Morris; brother, Emery Morris; and sisters, Linda Patcigo, Maggie Brown and Sharon John.

Wilfred is preceded in death by his son, Joshua Morris; sister, Lula Bowman; brother, Hoskie Morris; and parents, Isabelle and Joe Morris.

Pallbearers were Kevin John, Dalvin John, Jase Morris, Dale Charley, Harold Peterson, and Matthew Lynch.

Honorary pallbearers are Avery Patcigo, Gerard Morris, Alonzo John, Wilbert Segudy, Joe Hausner, and Alvin John.

Summit Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Raymond Davis

REHOBOTH, N.M. — Graveside service for Raymond Davis, 82, of Wheatfields, Arizona, was held April 19 in Rehoboth, New Mexico, with Micah Carolus officiating.

Raymond was born Nov. 13, 1938, in Wheatfields, into the Tótsohnii (Big Water Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). He passed away April 14, 2021, in Crownpoint.

Raymond attended Intermountain Indian School and was employed as a certified welder. He enjoyed calf roping and being the best husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Raymond is survived by his wife, Louise Davis; sons, Jeff Davis and Jasper Davis; daughters, Sharon Davis Carolus and Michele Davis Mix; brother, Leroy Chee; sisters, Matilda Farrell, Cecilia Yazzie, Sylvia Begaye, and Hilda Davis; and 14 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Raymond is preceded in death by Danasbah Davis, Rosemary Arviso, and brothers, Tully Davis and Leonard Chee.

Pallbearers were Jeff Davis, Jake Davis, Joshua Davis, Micah Carolus, Alvin Mescale, and Russell Bennett.

Honorary pallbearers are Cedar Mix, Taylor Davis, Trusse Davis, Coby Mescale, Elijah Mescale, Noah Mescale, Dakota Mescale, Logan Hall, and Colt Jordan.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Nelson S. Begaye

LUKACHUKAI, Ariz. — Graveside service for Nelson S. Begaye, 69, of Wheatfields, Arizona, was held April 20 in Lukachukai, Arizona, with Father Blaine Grein officiating.

Nelson was born Dec. 1, 1951, in Lukachukai, into the Tó’aheedlíinii (Water Flow Together Clan), born for Tł’ááshchí’í (Red Bottom People Clan). He passed away April 15, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Nelson graduated from Chinle High School in 1971 and attended Navajo Community College. He worked at Navajo Tribal Utility Authority-Chinle District and the Navajo Nation Council from 2003 to 2019, representing Lukachukai, Round Rock, Rock Point, Tsaile/Wheatfields, and Tsé ch’izi chapters.

Nelson enjoyed being an announcer for all rodeo associations on the Navajo Nation and at the professional level. He attended the well-known Bob Tallman Rodeo Announcing School in California, and was known on the powwow circuit as an announcer and gourd dancer. He was also a rancher, often seen driving his tractor on his homestead in Wheatfields.

Nelson is survived by his wife, Linda K. Begaye; sons, Reginald S. Begaye and Kurt S. Begaye; daughter, Shelbi Lynn Begaye; brothers, Peter S. Begaye, Joseph S. Begaye, George S. Begaye, Julian S. Begaye, and Thomas S. Begaye; sisters, Emma Yoe, Sarah James, Rita Curley, and Margie R.S. Begaye; and four grandchildren.

Nelson is preceded in death by his mother, Marie N. Begaye; father, Tom S. Begaye; sister, Ramona Begaye; and brothers, Eugene S. Begaye and Randall T. Begaye.

Pallbearers were George S. Begaye, Jeremiah Begaye, Lee Nez, John Curley Jr., Cory Begaye, and Ryan James.

Honorary pallbearers are Bennie Hanley Sr., Peter Begaye, Joseph Begaye, Julian Begaye, and Thomas Begaye.

Summit Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Barbara A. Baldwin

SHIPROCK — Funeral services for Barbara A. Baldwin, 70, of Shiprock, is currently pending.

Barbara was born Feb. 7, 1951, in Lukachukai, Arizona. She passed away April 17, 2021, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Barbara is in the care of Desert View Funeral Home in Shiprock.

The Navajo Times publishes obituaries free of charge as a public service. If you have an obituary you would like to submit, follow this link to the online submission form. We look forward to serving you.

The post Obituaries for April 22, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Jane Yikazbaa Lewis

FARMINGTON — Graveside service for Jane Yikazbaa Lewis, 94, will be held Friday, April 30, at 2 p.m., at the Memory Gardens Cemetery (6917 E. Main Street) in Farmington.

Jane was born Dec. 15, 1926, in Hogback, New Mexico, to Edith Lapahie and H. B. Lewis. She passed away April 18, 2021, in Phoenix.

Jane lived in Arizona since the late 1950s and is best known as a Dine’ silversmith and CEO of Navajo Silvercraft based in Phoenix. She participated in numerous arts and craft shows across the country and around the world. Her jewelry was purchased and collected from the Indian Market in Santa Fe, to shops in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Jane also enjoyed being with her children and grandchildren and going to church whenever possible. She always enjoyed visiting friends and family near Shiprock.

Jane is survived by her sister, Ruby McKinley; son, Ron Frank; niece, Deverna Abeita; nephews, Dave Devore, Jonathan Devore, Keevin Lewis, and Dan Lewis; and eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Jane is preceded in death by her husbands, Tom Jackson, Aaron Clah and John Popovich; sister, Virginia Devore; brother, Alex Lewis; and sons, Dave Jackson and Leroy Jackson.

Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Della Ann McCurtain

WEST JORDAN, Utah — Funeral services for Della Ann McCurtain, 91, were held April 28 at the Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery in West Jordan, Utah. Interment followed at the same location.

Della, our strong Navajo matriarch, was born Jan. 10, 1930, in Whippoorwill, Arizona, to Bah and Dan D. Begay, into the Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan), born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). Her maternal grandfather was ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People) and her paternal grandfather was Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water). She passed away April 21, 2021, in West Valley City, Utah.

Della married Henry McCurtain on Oct. 9, 1965, in Salt Lake City, Utah. She was a loving wife and mother.

Della attended Chinle Boarding School and left Arizona to attend Intermountain Indian School in Brigham City, Utah. After completing her education, she worked at the LDS Hospital as a nurse’s aide. After that, she started a family.

Della was a homemaker and once her children were old enough, she worked and retired from E and J Manufacturing.

Della loved gardening vegetables and flowers. She loved birds, collecting rocks, embroidery, sewing, watching the Utah Jazz, and supporting her grandchildren in their activities. Weaving Navajo rugs was one of her specialties. She loved her cat, Grim, and enjoyed family gatherings.

Della is survived by her husband, Henry McCurtain; children, Diane McCurtain, Darrell McCurtain, Darren McCurtain, and Tina Truesdell; siblings, Naswoody Begay, Esther Begay, James Begay, Grace Johnson, Lester Begay, Rozita Jake, and Malita Jim; and four grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Della is preceded in death by her parents, Bah and Dan D. Begay; and an infant brother and older sister who was a young girl.

Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery was in charge of arrangements.

Martha G. Murphy

HOUCK, Ariz. — Funeral services for Martha G. Murphy, 74, of Querino Canyon, Arizona, were held April 24 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Houck, Arizona, with Rev. Father David Tate officiating. Interment followed at the Houck Veteran and Community cemetery.

Martha was born Jan. 26, 1947, in Fort Defiance, into the Bit’ahnii (Folded Arms People Clan), born for Naasht’ézhí dine’é Táchii’nii (Zuni Red Running Into the Water People Clan). Her maternal grandfathers were of the Mą’ii deeshgiizhinii (Coyote Pass) and her paternal grandfathers were of the Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House). She passed away April 19, 2021, in Show Low, Arizona.

Martha worked for the Indian Health Service in Fort Defiance and Gallup for many years, retiring in 2011. She was a very caring and loving person, living both by the Navajo traditional way and the Catholic way, in which she was a lifelong parishioner of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Houck.

Martha loved to run, take long walks, travel, attend church and revivals, and enjoyed the company of her family. She was well loved by all and will be dearly missed.

Martha is survived by her brothers, Thomas Murphy, Nathaniel Murphy, Robert Murphy, and Howard Murphy; sisters, Christine Murphy, Florence Roldan and Ruby King; and many nieces and nephews.

Martha is preceded in death by her father, Tom Murphy; mother, Flossie Matt Murphy; sisters, Alice Redsteer, Betty Murphy, Isabelle Murphy, Dorothy Cipriano, Patricia Gloria Murphy, and Joanna Purley; and brothers, Mervin Murphy and Joseph Murphy.

Pallbearers were Thomas Murphy, Howard Murphy, Nathaniel Murphy, Marlon Murphy, Justin Keedah, and Malcolm Begay.

The Murphy family wishes to send their thanks and appreciation for all the outpouring of love and support during this time of loss.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Chekoyah Randy Washburn

KIRTLAND, N.M. — Memorial service for Chekoyah Randy Washburn, 28, of Shiprock, was held April 28 at Cope Memorial Chapel in Kirtland, New Mexico. Interment followed at the Kirtland Fruitland Cemetery.

Randy was born March 23, 1993, in Shiprock, to Randy Washburn and Bettylene Lee. He was born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), by Tódík’ózhí (Salt Water Clan). His maternal cheii is Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water) and paternal nalí is Tł’ááshchí’í (Red Bottom People).

Randy graduated from Career Prep High in 2011 and attended San Juan College in 2014, where he received his Class A CDL license. He last worked for CNJ Oilfield Services and several companies in the community. He was a very hard worker and enjoyed the field that he worked in.

Randy loved working on his truck, racing, drawing, and his daughters. He loved being a truck driver and took pride in the work he did. He even customized his work semi to his liking.

Randy believed in the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. He taught his girls to pray daily and to always be thankful.

Randy is survived by his father, Randy Washburn; daughters, Knoavah B. Washburn and Kieran S. Washburn; sister, Charity Washburn; brother, Jacob Washburn; grandparents, Harold and Rose Washburn of Shiprock, and Frank and Lula Topaha of Red Mesa, Utah; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Randy is preceded in death by his mother, Bettylene Lee; and great-grandparents, Tom and Mae Edwards.

Judson Roy “J.R.” Williams

HESPERUS, Colo. — Graveside service for Judson Roy “J.R.” Williams is pending at the Kline Cemetery.

J.R. was born Aug. 9, 1922, to a Texas minister/sharecropper and a former one-room teacher. He was the sixth of eight children. He died April 24, 2021, at Mercy Regional Medical Center in Durango, Colorado.

During the Depression, the family rode in the back of their truck to work in the canneries of California, but eventually returned to rural Donley County, Texas, where J.R. met Margaret Jean Leathers. She fell for him when he sang “Beautiful Dreamer” in a high school quartet. They married in 1943 while he was serving in World War II. He lost two brothers in that war and a third was held for months in a Nazi camp.

After his service, J.R. obtained a degree in education. He also received his master’s degree and his administrative certificate. He taught high school and college Spanish and was a basketball coach in Colorado, Texas, and Arizona. He served as a principal in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, Red Mesa High School in Red Mesa, Arizona, and taught many history and civics classes.

J.R. fervently valued democracy and civil rights. He was drawn to the underdog. As an educator, he sought fairness.

Always a keen sports fan, J.R. was known to write letters to the NFL and NBA about his views on referee calls. He owned and operated health food stores in Durango and New Mexico.

Quick-witted and charming, J.R. worked at the Mesa Verde Museum, Colorado Welcome Center, looked after his bird feeders, set lofty goals for his questionable carpentry skills, and talked politics. He lived near Dove Creek, Colorado, where he began his teaching career.

In his last years, J.R. replaced “thank you” with “bless you”. He was a blessing to multitudes of students who benefitted from his confidence in the worth of a good education and a strong work ethic.

J.R. is survived by his son, Jan; daughter, Sharon McAnear; and five grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

J.R. is preceded in death by his dear wife, Jean; and loving son, Jay.

Jonathan B. Francisco

NASCHITTI, N.M. — Graveside service for Jonathan B. Francisco, 59, of Naschitti, New Mexico, will be held today, April 29, at the family plot in Naschitti, with Sister Marlene officiating.

Jonathan was born Aug. 11, 1962, in Silver City, New Mexico, into the Tsenabahiłnii (Sleep Rock People Clan), born for Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). He passed away April 24, 2021, at the Gallup Indian Medical Center in Gallup.

Jonathan graduated from Cobre High School in Bayard, New Mexico, and from the diesel mechanic program at Navajo Technical University.

Jonathan enjoyed mechanic work, welding, carpentry, tending to the ranch, and silver work. He loved to joke and spend time with family and friends.

Jonathan is survived by his father, Nelson Francisco; brothers, Neddie, Ned, Nathaniel, Nelson Jr., and Nathan; and sisters, Nellie, Marie, Nora, and Nanette.

Jonathan is preceded in death by his mother, Jannie Francisco; and grandparents, Olive and Martin Francisco.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for April 29, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Alice Mae Luna

KAYENTA — Alice Mae Luna, 71, was born Aug. 17, 1949, at her home in lower Black Mesa, Arizona, into the Kinłichíi’nii (Red House People Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). Her maternal grandfather was Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People) and her paternal grandfather was ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People). She passed on April 28, 2021.

Alice earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of New Mexico, her master’s in social work from the University of Colorado-Boulder, and most recently, a certification in information technology from Strayer University.

Alice was a teacher at Rock Point Community School, Chinle Valley School for Exceptional Children, and the director of Navajo Nation Social Services Western Agency.

Alice participated in the Navajo-Hopi Land Dispute hearings, protested the Black Mesa coalmine establishment, and advocated for the Indian Child Welfare Act. She worked with many communities in the Washington, D.C./Maryland area for 40 years before retiring.

Alice was a sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend who valued education, her independence; was an activist, a pioneer, enjoyed healthy eating, being active, and always spoke her mind. She was small in stature but mighty in her presence. She will be missed.

Alice is survived by her sisters, Anita Talaswaima and Florence Leonard.

Alice is preceded in death by her mother, Sally Smith Luna; father, Avery Luna; sisters, Amelia Luna and Barbara Luna; and brother, Harvey Luna.

Services and reception to be determined.

Condolences and donations may be made to: Lita Dixon, P.O. Box 1452, Kayenta, AZ 86033, or Zelle to 928-429-0804 (memo: Alice Luna’s services).

Kaylem Cordell Lee

GALLUP — Funeral services for Kaylem Cordell Lee, 22, of Gallup, will be held Friday, May 7, at 10 a.m., at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup, with Pastor Martin Eastridge officiating. Burial will follow at the family plot in Naschitti, New Mexico.

Kaylem was born Jan. 19, 1999, in Gallup, into the Tł’ááshchí’í (Red Bottom People Clan), raised by Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan). He passed away April 28, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Kaylem graduated from Gallup High School in 2017 and attended the University of New Mexico. He was employed by Jabil Healthcare as a mechanical engineer technician.

Kaylem is survived by his mother, Venissa Rose Cheschilly; sister, Autumn Rose Lee; and grandmother, Beverly Vickie Cheschilly.

Kaylem is preceded in death by Richard T. Cheschilly Sr., Rose Jennie Cheschilly, Nelson Lee, Francis M. Slinkey, and Mary J. Slinkey.

Pallbearers will be Craig Bitsilly, Matthew Chavez, Anthony Cheschilly, Darryl Cheschilly, Scott Cheschilly, Jaren Cheschilly, and Tecumseh House.

Honorary pallbearers will be family and friends who have been loved through Kaylem’s wisdom, grace, loyalty, and heart.

A reception will take place at the Cheschilly residence (Highway 491 North, milepost 46.2), following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Barbara A. Baldwin

FARMINGTON — Funeral services for Barbara A. Baldwin, 70, of Shiprock, were held April 30 at the Piñon Hills Community Church in Farmington. Interment followed at the Shiprock community cemetery.

Barbara was born Feb. 7, 1951, in Lukachukai, Arizona. She passed from this life April 17, 2021, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Desert View Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Richard Montoya Sr.

SANTA FE — Funeral services for Richard Montoya Sr., 75, of Torreon/Huerfano, New Mexico, was held May 3, at the Fountain of Life Church. He was laid to rest at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.

Richard was born March 20, 1946, and raised in Na’neelzhiin, New Mexico, located on the Eastern Navajo Nation. He was 10 of 12 siblings born to the late June Trujillo and Polito Montoya. He passed away April 27, 2021.

Richard was a beloved husband to Janice Yazzie-Montoya of 30 years. He was a father to six children and grandfather to 10 grandchildren.

Richard accomplished many things in his life starting with being a state championship runner for Cuba High School. He served in the Air Force and was a Vietnam War veteran.

Richard was a school board member for Na’ Neelzhiin Ji Olta’ and Cuba Schools for many years. He was also a chapter official for many years, until this past December of 2020. He worked for the Bureau of Indian Education (Na’ Neelzhiin Ji Olta’), Tribally Controlled Schools (Rough Rock Community Schools), Central Consolidated School District (Kirtland, Newcomb), and Ziems Ford Corners as a security guard.

Richard became a pastor in 2001, along with his wife, Janice. They have been pastors of Fountain of Life Church (Huerfano community) for the past 20 years.

Richard helped build the Fountain of Life Church spiritually, physically, and financially from its infancy. He has made a big impression on many people with counsel and guidance from the Word of God. He loved the Lord and served Him whole-heartedly for 35-plus years.

Richard is survived by his wife, Janice Y. Montoya, and six children and 10 grandchildren.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, and three sisters.

Richard will be dearly remembered as a steadfast and devout Christian, an inspirational father, a strong community leader, and a brilliant hardworking husband, father, and a loving grandfather.

The post Obituaries for May 6, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

David James Willie Sr.

GALLUP — Funeral services for David James Willie Sr., 78, of Wildcat, New Mexico, were held May 10 at the Rollie Mortuary Chapel in Gallup, with Jamie Wato officiating. Interment followed at the Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Gallup.

David was born May 14, 1942, in Wildcat, into the Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan), born for Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan). He passed away May 3, 2021, in Wildcat.

David attended Intermountain High School in Brigham City, Utah, and welding at Norris Industries in Los Angeles. He worked for Norris Industries, Inc., Bomb Site, Blacksmith Enterprise in Gallup, CDK Construction in Window Rock, and P&M Coalmine in Tse Bonito, New Mexico, as a dragline operator.

David enjoyed welding, playing pool and baseball, coalmining, ranching, drag racing, traveling, horseshoes, watching classic Western movies, and spending time with family.

David is survived by his wife, Sherry M. Willie; sons, Davidson Willie and Darrell Willie; daughters, Geraldine Willie, Karen Joe and Shirlene Mae Willie; parents, Lucille and James Willie; brothers, Charlie Willie, Harrison Willie, Nelson Willie, and Edison Willie; sisters, Susie Smith and Virgene Miller; and 16 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

David is preceded in death by Gary Joe; and sons, Frank Willie and David Willie Jr.

Pallbearers were Keenean Joe, Darius Willie, Ian Willie, Cody Bahe, and Damien Willie.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Calvin Upshaw

ST. MICHAELS, Ariz. — Funeral services for Calvin Upshaw, 62, of Goat Springs, Arizona, will be held Friday, May 14, at 9 a.m., at the Summit Funeral Home in St. Michaels, Arizona, with Pastor Milt Shirleson officiating. Burial will follow at the family plot in St. Michaels.

Calvin was born June 17, 1958, in Fort Defiance, into the Tl’ógí (Hairy Ones/Weaver-Zia Clan), born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). He passed away May 7, 2021, in St. Michaels.

Calvin attended Window Rock schools and was employed as a stonemason for over 35 years. He was a hardworking man with interests and hobbies that encompassed his gift in creating art from stone. He often said, “I’m a rock man!”

Calvin enjoyed making people laugh by acting out his jokes. He was also serious and warmhearted when those he loved were overwhelmed with life struggles. He will be dearly missed.

Calvin is survived by his wife, Clarice A. Upshaw; son, Taylor R. Upshaw; brothers, Frank Upshaw Sr., Benjamin Upshaw, Francis Upshaw, Wilford Upshaw, and Gerald Upshaw; and sister, Marie Enfield.

Calvin is preceded in death by his parents, Marion and John Upshaw; daughter, Sue Anna Upshaw; sister, Loretta Upshaw; and brothers, Raymond Upshaw Sr., Paul Upshaw and Melvin Upshaw.

Pallbearers will be Gerald Upshaw, Frank Upshaw Jr., Xavier Upshaw. Alejandro Upshaw, Darryl Begay, and Morena Ramirez.

A drive-thru reception will take place at Benjamin and Gina Upshaw’s residence in St. Michaels, following services.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Quinten Shaw

FORT DEFIANCE — Graveside service for Quinten Shaw, 55, of Window Rock, will be held Friday, May 14, at 10 a.m., at the Fort Defiance cemetery.

Quinten was born Oct. 15, 1965, in Fort Defiance, into the Honágháahnii (One-walks-around Clan), born for Táchii’nii/Naasht’ézhí dine’é (Red Running Into the Water People/Zuni Clan). He passed away May 9, 2021, in Window Rock.

Quinten received his GED in Yuma, Arizona, and was employed as an asbestos removal technician. He enjoyed watching sports, especially his favorite team, the Cardinals.

Quinten is survived by his son, Marlin E. Shaw of Sedona, Arizona; mother, Betty Shaw of Window Rock; brother, Paul Shaw Jr. of Indian Wells, Arizona; and sister, Beverly Shaw-Little of Albuquerque.

Quinten is preceded in death by Paula B. Jackson, Willie and Bertha Shaw, Sam B. Tsosie, and Alice Tsosie.

Pallbearers will be Paul Shaw Jr., Cody Shaw-Little, Jeremy Jackson. Marlin E. Shaw, Michael Manygoats, and Daryll Manygoats.

Honorary pallbearers will be Brandon Jackson, Gabriel Jackson, Tyler Shaw-Little, Ezra Yazzie, Antonio Begay, and Tyson Begay.

A reception will take place at Betty Shaw’s residence (No. 15 on Shonto Blvd.) in Window Rock, following services.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Oscar Merrill Jr.

VANDERWAGEN, N.M. — Memorial services for Oscar Merrill Jr., 43, was held at St. Patrick’s Community Church, a private ceremony at the Merrill family plot, followed by a reception at the Merrill residence in Vanderwagen, New Mexico.

Oscar was born Aug. 2, 1977, in Gallup, into the Bit’ahnii (Folded Arm Clan), born for Naakai dine’é (Mexican Clan). He peacefully passed away April 6, 2021, in Mesa, Arizona.

Oscar was the youngest of five children, the only son of the family. He graduated from Gallup High School where he played football and was a member of the National Honor Society and graduated with honors in 1995.

After graduation, Oscar attended the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque where he pledged Beta Sigma Epsilon and went on to earn an undergraduate degree in religion in 2010.

Oscar was known as a wonderful son, a great brother, a loving uncle, dedicated coworker, and loyal friend, whom everyone trusted and loved. He was selfless, humble and brave, and instilled inner peace, equality, love, and humanity within his family.

Oscar lived life to the fullest being able to travel the world, growing in the richness of knowledge and enjoyed and appreciated the simple moments of life. He will be missed by many, but we will remember him through his teachings and our many shared memories forever in our hearts.

Oscar is survived by his loving mother, Maxine Merrill of Vanderwagen; sisters, Clarice Merrill of Phoenix, Cheryl Sanchez of Albuquerque, Clorinda Merrill of North Bergen, New Jersey, and Carol “Sea” Persinger of Albuquerque; nieces, Sapphire Persinger, Malaysia Persinger and Brooklyn Persinger, all of Albuquerque; nephew, Renaissance Persinger of Albuquerque; and many other nephews and nieces.

Oscar is preceded in death by his father, Oscar Merrill Sr.

Brian Kee Sr.

GALLUP — Graveside service for Brian Kee Sr., 57, of Vanderwagen, New Mexico, will be held Monday, May 17, at 10 a.m., at the Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Gallup.

Brian was born April 20, 1964, in Murray, Utah, into the Bit’ahnii (Folded Arms Clan), born for Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan). He passed away May 7, 2021, in Gallup.

Brian attended Gallup High School and worked in masonry/construction. He liked cars and enjoyed reading and traveling.

Brian is survived by his son, Brian Kee Jr.; daughters, Brianna Kee, Kristen Kee and Kristy Kee; mother, Mardi Bitsue Shirley; sister, Marleen Kee; and grandparents, Maggie and Charley Bitsue, and Charlotte and Robertson Kee.

Brian is preceded in death by his father, Johnny Kee.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for May 13, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Angel Diamond Brown

BLACK HAT, N.M. — Funeral service for Angel Diamond Brown, 27, of St. Michaels, Arizona, and Alamogordo, New Mexico, will be held Saturday, May 22, at 1 p.m., at the Bible Navajo Mission at Wildcat Christian Academy (Highway 264, milepost 9) in Black Hat, New Mexico, with Pastor Jim Bowling officiating.

Angel was born Jan. 19, 1994, in Gallup. He passed away May 6, 2021, in Alamogordo.

Angel graduated from Wildcat Christian Academy and worked for the Navajo Nation, Mesa Verde Enterprises, Gerald Champion Hospital, Wendell’s, The Inn Casino Johnny Casinos, Bowling Alley Kitchen, as well as many other places as a professional chef.

Angel enjoyed exercising, lifting weights, bike riding, hiking, hunting, walking, cruising, freestyling, and talking with whomever he was with.

Angel is survived by his mother, Lenora A. Depp of Alamogordo; brothers, Derek Brown of Alamogordo, and Erik Cooke of Window Rock; sister, Sherri Brown of Alamogordo; aunt, Deborah (Delbert) Luther of Fort Defiance; uncle, Darryl (Pamela) Beyal of St. Michaels; and grandmother, Kathy Battese of St. Michaels.

Angel is preceded in death by his father, Gregory C. Brown of Rock Springs, New Mexico; grandparents, Alice and George Brown of Rock Springs; and great-grandparents, Sadie and Charlie Brown of Tuba City.

Honorary pallbearers will be Derek C. Brown, Sherri Brown, Eric Cooke, Roman Hillard, Dugon Jimmy, Taylor Guilez, Brad Moreau, Robyn Mendez, Pete Little Elk, Joey Kazhe, Rachel Garza, and Al Frank Gallegos.

Alamogordo Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Virginia Daisy Tom (1958 — 2021)

Virginia Daisy Tom

BECLABITO, N.M. — Virginia Daisy Tom, our beautiful and beloved sister, aunt, grandma, and friend walked on after three years of failing health, on May 11, 2021. She is now at peace.

Virginia was known as Daiz to family and Verge to friends. She was born in Shiprock and grew up in Beclabito, New Mexico. Her clans were Naakai dine’é (Mexican), Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover), Kin?ichíi’nii (Red House People), and Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People).

Virginia loved living on the rez and was very happy to return recently to her childhood playground. She had many fond memories and loved to share stories of her childhood while helping grandparents and parents with animal care at home, farm work in Gadi’ahi’, and sheep camp in the Carrizo Mountain. She attributed what she was taught in her formative years to have given her guidance, discipline and respect throughout her adult life and professional career.

Virginia graduated from Shiprock High School and attended Saint Mary of the Plains College in Dodge City, Kansas, where she earned a biology degree. She often joked about how she moved so far from home when she had never left home before and wasn’t comfortable speaking the English language 24/7, but she made friends easily both on and off campus. While there, she befriended the Sandoval family who accepted her as one of their own. She cherished them as lifelong friends and family.

In 1988, Virginia was certified as a medical technologist in Kansas City, after which she returned to Shiprock Indian Health Service where she worked in the laboratory for five years. She then enrolled in and completed the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program at the University of Utah, 1993-1996. As a primary care provider, she worked for the IHS and the Veterans Administration systems. She worked in a Texas VA clinic before retiring and returning to the rez in 2018.

Virginia loved her extended family very much and was always there to help those who needed it. She was known for her generosity, humor, and hard work. She loved her nieces and nephews and wanted to see them grow up, get educated, and become self-sufficient and productive adults. She was so proud among some professions they chose as chef, dietitian, accountant, medical technologist, computer expert, veterinarian, physician, etc.

Virginia always looked forward to annual summer gatherings of her clan sisters “Tó’aheedlíinii Saani,” who shared the gift of laughter, stories, songs, k’eh, and just plain sisterhood.

Virginia is survived by her brothers, Pat, Herb (Laura), Wallace (Flora), David, and Harrison; sister, Lillian (Jim); sister-in-law, Karen; and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.

Virginia adored her little “grandkids” and was known as Choe Daiz to Desbah and Ashkii; as Naali to Seri, Trent, Sage, and Leah; and as Grandma Daiz to Zella and Sibbie.

Virginia is also survived by her best friends forever, Alene Speight, Chris Sandoval and Rosie Begay; and her beloved dog and protector, Penny (aka Schwodo).

Virginia is preceded in death by her parents, Jean and Herbert; brothers, Ben and Walter; nephew, Sgt. Troy; and sister-in-law, Carolyn.

We will miss Virginia very much. We thank all those who have participated in her care, offered prayers, and shared words of encouragement.

Norma Jean Murphy

TRINIDAD, Colo. — Funeral services for Norma Jean Murphy, 53, of Trinidad, Colorado, will be held today, May 20, at 1 p.m., at the First Christian Church in Trinidad, with Pastor Carrie Nelson officiating. Burial will follow at the Trinidad Catholic Cemetery.

Norma was born Nov. 19, 1967, in Fort Defiance, into the Dibélzhíní (Black Sheep Clan), born for Tódík’ózhí (Salt Water Clan). She passed away May 7, 2021, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Norma attended Pine Springs Boarding School in Pine Springs, Arizona, and Bountiful High School in Utah, graduating from Valley High School in Sanders, Arizona. She attended Trinidad State Junior College for medical assistant/CNA and obtained her CNA certification, which she used to work caring for the elderly. They loved her.

Norma was an enrolled member of the Navajo Tribe and was full of life. She had a contagious smile, friendly personality. She was very family oriented and loved her children and grandchildren dearly. She also loved her sea turtles, playing volleyball, fishing, family gatherings and cookouts.

Norma is survived by her son, Shane J. Ashley of Raton, New Mexico; daughters, Sheila M. Murphy of Branson, Colorado, and Shania Rael of Trinidad; brothers, Daniel Murphy of Querino, Arizona, Dennis Murphy of Lupton, Arizona, Arnold Murphy of Klagetoh, Arizona, and Jonathan Murphy of Tucson; sisters, Evangeline Murphy of Querino Canyon, Lorraine Featherstone of Holladay, Utah, and Laura A. Begay of Houck, Arizona; and 15 grandchildren.

Norma is preceded in death by her mother, Louise J. Murphy; father, Dan Murphy; sisters, Evelyn J. Williams and Sandra A. Murphy; maternal grandparents, Mildred J. Harry and Tom K. Joe; and paternal grandparents, Alice Silversmith and Sam Murphy.

Pallbearers will be Dennis Murphy, Arnold Murphy, Jonathan Murphy, Shane J. Ashley, Randall J. Murphy, and Fernando Gonzalez.

A reception will take place at the First Christian Church, following services.

Comi Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

James Kee Teller

REHOBOTH, N.M. — Funeral services for James Kee Teller, 47, of Church Rock, New Mexico, were held May 19 at the Rehoboth Christian Reformed Church in Rehoboth, New Mexico, with Pastor Stanley Jim officiating. Interment followed at the Rehoboth cemetery.

James was born June 15, 1973, in Gallup, into the Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), born for M?’ii deeshgiizhinii (Coyote Pass Clan). He passed away May 11, 2021, in Albuquerque.

James attended Wingate High School and was a member of the band. He led bible studies and was a member of the Rehoboth Christian Reformed Church community.

James was employed as a cook at Rehoboth Christian School.

Honorary pallbearers were Bo Redd, Albert Redd III, and Jimmy Teller Sr.

A drive-up reception took place at the Rehoboth Christian Reformed Church, following services.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Frank Jones

HOGBACK, N.M. — Loving, silly, hardworking family man and a warrior for Christ are all things that come to mind when the name Frank Jones is mentioned.

Frank was born March 14, 1962, in Shiprock, to Bessie Martin and Tony Jones, the fourth oldest of six.

In his young years, Frank visited and worked in many places such as Arkansas, Montana, Oregon, Texas, Washington, and many other states, traveling with his brothers and practicing the many talents he picked up from going to school and working. He was a welder, carpenter and farmer, just to name a few of the skills he picked up.

Frank spent the rest of his years living in Hogback. Surviving the Lord, he attended Diné Christian Center in Shiprock, and worked for the Ute Mountain Farm and Ranch.

Frank is lived on through his children, Frankie Jones Jr. and Jonathan Tsosie; siblings, Norman/Mingo Jones, Carol Howard, Bill Jones, and Loretta Pettigrew; and grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and grandnieces/nephews who he claimed as his grandchildren.

Frank will be remembered as a service to all, whether that was helping his church or his family. A jokester/teaser, there was never a dull moment when he was around. A sweets addict, he was always craving something sweet or had something sweet with him. He loved the Lord and is surely living the rest of his days in paradise with our heavenly father.

It is difficult to think that we will no longer see our beloved family member around, but it is with all the memories that we will continue to keep him alive in our hearts. It is certain that he will be greatly missed, but we can all look forward to the day when we can see our loved one again.

Malina Cecil Lee

GALLUP — Funeral service for Malina Cecil Lee, 50, of Gallup, was held May 14 at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup, with Rev. Jonathan C. Graham officiating.

Malina was born Sept. 8, 1970, in Gallup, into the Táb??há (Water’s Edge Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). He passed away May 2, 2021, in Gallup.

Malina attended Aileen Roat Elementary, Gallup Middle School, Gallup High School, and the University of New Mexico Police Academy. He was employed with various security jobs.

Malina enjoyed music, concerts, comics, movies, cooking, and anime.

Malina is survived by his wife, Marcella Brown Lee; sons, Galen Lee, Nehemiah Lee and Ethan Lee; daughters, Tasha Brown and Thalassa Lewis; mother, Irene Lee; brothers, Norman Lee, Manuel Lee, Peter Moore, and Gary Lee; sisters, Victoria Lee, Philane Lee and Lisa Lee; and two grandchildren.

Malina is preceded in death by Nelson Lee Sr., Cecil Lee, Nelson Lee Jr., Ricky Lee, Christopher Lee, and Kaylem Lee.

Pallbearers were Nehemiah Lee, Galen Lee, Gary Lee, Oren Lewis, Mathew Chaves, Daniel Rodriguez, and Josh Vail.

Honorary pallbearers were Ethan Lee and Kingston Pozernick.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Nelson M. Francisco

GALLUP — Funeral services for Nelson M. Francisco, 92, of Naschitti, New Mexico, will be held Friday, May 21, at 10 a.m., at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup, with Sister Marlene officiating. Burial will follow at the family plot in Naschitti.

Nelson was born May 10, 1929, in Naschitti, into the Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan), born for Táb??há (Water’s Edge Clan). He passed away May 17, 2021, in Gallup.

Nelson worked for the Kenncott Mines in Santa Rita, New Mexico, and was a rancher, silversmith and carpenter.

Nelson is survived by his sons, Neddie Francisco, Ned Francisco, Nathaniel Francisco, Nelson Francisco Jr., and Nathan Francisco; daughters, Nellie Begay, Marie Upshaw, Nora Francisco, and Nanette Francisco; sisters, Ruby Johnson and Juanita Willie; and 16 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Nelson is preceded in death by his wife, Jannie; parents, Olive and Martin Francisco; son, Jonathan Francisco; grandchildren, Jacob Francisco and Bryan Upshaw; and son-in-law, James E. Begay.
Pallbearers will be Justin, Yazzie, Arlando, Sonny, Lyle, and Xavier.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Timothy Bitsie

GALLUP — Funeral services for Timothy Bitsie, 63, of Mexican Springs, New Mexico, will be held today, May 20, at 2 p.m., at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup. Burial will follow in Mexican Springs.

Timothy was born Nov. 16, 1957, in Rehoboth, New Mexico, into the Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover Clan), born for ‘Ásh??hí (Salt People Clan). He passed away May 15, 2021, in Gallup.

Timothy graduated from Tohatchi High School in 1976 and worked for Navajo Engineering and Construction Authority, Navajo Nation Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and Na Nizhoozhi Center in Gallup.

Timothy was a stock contractor who enjoyed hunting and watching rodeo and Professional Bull Riders.

Timothy is survived by his wife, Bernadine Bitsie; sons, Bradford Bitsie and Beau Bitsie; daughters, Tiana Bitsie and Brianna Bitsie; mother, Betty Bitsie; brothers, Curtis Bitsie and Edward Bitsie; sisters, Loretta Mescal, Floracita Mike and Pearl Sandoval; maternal grandparents, Faye and Jim Thomas; paternal grandparents, Aheenazbah and Herman Bitsie; and 15 grandchildren.

Timothy is preceded in death by Cody Bitsie, Milton Bitsie and Ernest Bitsie.

Pallbearers will be Bradford Bitsie, Beau Bitsie, Tyrell Bitsie, Bradley Bitsie, Caleb Sandoval, and Kolt Mike.

Honorary pallbearers will be Curtis Bitsie, Edward Bitsie, Virgil Peters, Dennis Bitsie, Lindsay Mescal, and Tommy Mike.

A drive-thru reception will take place at the Bitsie residence in Mexican Springs, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for May 20, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Wilma Boehms Cake

WINSLOW, Ariz. — Funeral services for Wilma Boehms Cake, of Mesa, Arizona, formerly of Winslow, Arizona, will be held Saturday, May 29, at 11 a.m., at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winslow. Visitation will take place one hour prior to service at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at the Desert View Cemetery.

Wilma passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on May 22, 2021.

Wilma was born Jan. 18, 1931, in Farmer’s Exchange Community, Hickman County, Tennessee. Soon after she was born, the family moved to Jones Valley where she attended the schools of Jones Valley, Shady Grove, and graduated from Hickman County High School in Centerville, Tennessee.

On Feb. 26, 1952, Wilma married Howard Cake in Nashville, Tennessee, where she worked for National Life Insurance Company. Howard was stationed at Stewart Air Force Base (1941-1971), which was located near Nashville. Following his discharge, they moved to his hometown of Winslow, where they joined his parents in the family’s automobile business, Cake Chevrolet Inc.

Wilma’s greatest strength was her dedication to her family. She was a loving mother and devoted wife, spending her time assisting with running the dealership and raising her children. She also made great effort to stay in close touch with her Tennessee family. These were special times for her six siblings and their families when they would gather and share moments together.

Wilma was unselfish, generous, loving, bright, kind, and a bit rebellious. Her impact will forever remain in the lives of every person who knew her.

Aside from her devotion to family and the business, Wilma was an active member of the community. She was involved in various organizations around town, including the Winslow Junior Women’s Club, in which she was elected president and eventually accepted an award in Washington, D.C., for her involvement in the National Community Improvement Project. She spent her spare time reading, drinking wine, and enjoying her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Wilma leaves behind her loving children, including Harvey, Peter (Debbie), and Michelle (Frank III). Her 16 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren will dearly miss their Mimi but will cherish her memory forever.

Wilma is preceded in death by many dear to her heart, including her parents, Herschel Holmes Boehms and Mary Jane (née Nichols); sisters, Jane Smith and Evelyn Norton; husband, Howard Morrison Cake; sons, Ralph Herschel Cake and James Barry Cake; and children, Maria and George, who tragically passed during infancy.

Memorial donations can be made to the Sacred Heart Southern Missions, 6050 Highway 161, Walls, MS 38686. More information can be found at shsm.org.

Eleanor Marie Smith

ALBUQUERQUE — Eleanor Marie Smith, 89, peacefully entered the spirit world in her Albuquerque home on May 16.

In spite of her diminishing health, Eleanor embraced life and wanted to remain in her home close to family, relatives and friends albeit the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eleanor was born Nov. 27, 1931, on the Navajo Reservation at the Chinle Indian Health Service hospital. She was born into the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). She was the daughter of Anselm G. Davis Sr., Navajo, from Lukachukai, Arizona, and Aileen Ben Davis, Choctaw, from Standing Pine, Mississippi.

Accordingly, Eleanor was half Navajo and half Choctaw, and was enrolled as a member of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. She was married to Robert L. Smith who was of the Laguna Tribe and who precedes her in death.

Eleanor was the mother of one son, Lawrence Eric Smith, who resides in Yucaipa, California, with his wife Teddie and daughters, Lisa and Sharlene, and son Stephen.

Having graduated from Gallup High School, Eleanor became a registered nurse after completing her course work at a school of nursing in Louisville, Kentucky.

Eleanor, who was a member of the New Mexico Indian Nurses Association, thoroughly enjoyed working with the Lovelace Medical Center staff and later in the Ears, Nose and Throat office of Dr. Ronald J. Escudero before deciding to retire.

In 1968, Eleanor started running to lose weight. Eventually she was able to run three miles in 30 minutes and continued running three miles at a 10-minute per mile pace in numerous races. When she turned 50 years old, she decided to run her first 10K by entering the Las Mujeves De La Luz 10K, which she ran in 44 minutes and 57 seconds. She also began running half and full marathons, which included the Pikes Peak 14-mile Accent Run, Tour of Albuquerque Marathon, Duke City Marathon, and New Mexico’s most famous trail-running race — the La Luz Trail Run.

As Eleanor increased the mileage and the number of races, her husband died unexpectedly of a cerebral hemorrhage. Two months later her father died in an auto accident.

Eleanor discovered that through running she could release some of her grief. “Running keeps me in touch with mother earth and father sky. I get my strength, peace, and renewal of body, mind and spirit through mountain running. To me running is praying.”

Eleanor continued to run numerous races, including the Avon Women’s International Marathon and the Sandia Wilderness Crossing, a 28.5-mile run across the length of the Albuquerque Sandia Mountains. This was a 10-year research run for high altitude endurance runners. She ran this research run for eight years and was the only 50-plus women research runner. She was a proud member of the Al Waquie United Indian Runners.

On Aug. 19, 1991, Eleanor received an honorary award from the Earth Circle Foundation for spirit, strength and commitment to Native American runners. The number of trophies that filled shelves in her bedroom attests to her comment to running and to the joy she experienced while running.

Eleanor was a member of Albuquerque’s Queen of Angels Catholic Church. She was an active member of the Kateri Tekakwitha Circle, whose members worked diligently for the canonization of Kateri Tekakwitha. She traveled to Rome, Italy, to witness Kateri Tekakwitha being canonized as the first Native American saint on Oct. 21, 2012. She was also in Rome on Oct. 1, 2000, for the canonization of Katharine Drexel, founder of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament for Indians and Colored People.

Eleanor traveled to Rome with Sister Gloria, her younger sister, who was the first Native American to enter into the order of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament in 1952.

Eleanor was well known in the Albuquerque powwow circle where she enjoyed the companionship of powwow dancers and spectators. She especially enjoyed participating in the gourd dances.

Eleanor was the second oldest child of the 10 children Davis family. Pearl Ethel Nelson (deceased) was the oldest followed by younger siblings, Sister Gloria Ann Davis, S.B.S (deceased), Rose B. Leyba, Loretta Ann Chavez (deceased), Dr. Anselm G. Davis Jr., Ralph Ulysses Davis, William Paul Davis, Patricia Ann Davis, and Robert Michael Davis.

Eleanor is also survived by Mae Begay.

Eleanor is preceded in death by Anselm K. Davis, Michael Davis and George Davis from her father’s second marriage.

Although Eleanor endured a number of health setbacks later in life, she bore its difficulties with grace and dignity while waiting for her creator to embrace her soul in the spirit world.

Eleanor will be remembered by family, relatives, and her many friends for her zest for life, her generosity, and for being a kind and loving person. She touched the lives of so many adults and children in so many ways.

Eleanor will be buried at the Santa Fe National Cemetery with her husband, Robert L. Smith, who was an Air Force veteran.

Gilbert Francis

KIRTLAND, N.M. — Funeral services for Gilbert Francis, 73, of Shiprock, will be held today, May 27, at 9 a.m., at Cope Memorial Chapel in Kirtland, New Mexico. Burial will follow at the Shiprock cemetery.

Gilbert was born Nov. 6, 1947, in Cortez, Colorado, into the Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), born for Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). His nalí is Naakai dine’é (Mexican); cheii is Hooghan Łání (Many Hogans). He passed away May 21, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Gilbert attended Ignacio Boarding School and Navajo Community College. He worked for APS, Navajo Mine, and Northern Navajo Medical Center for 20 years.

Gilbert enjoyed cars, fishing, iPad games, and spending time with his wife, daughter, family, and friends. He was a member of the Native American Church and a San Francisco 49ers fan.

Gilbert is survived by his wife, Maryann Francis; daughter, Joy Jean Francis; siblings, Norma Pete, Ruthie Francis, Eleanor Jones, and Dashey Francis; and 55 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Gilbert is preceded in death by his mother, Patty Jean Francis; father, Alfred Francis Sr.; and siblings, Charles Herbert Francis, Leonard Francis, Larry Francis, and Joy Jean Francis.

Pallbearers will be Shawndell Upshaw, Derrick Clark, Roydale Pete, Shaydale Pete, Lyle Francis, Marvin Nakai, Craig Begay, Richard Begay Jr., Ty Hunt, and Byron Francis.

Honorary pallbearers will be Harrison Lee, Harrison Dick, Hoskie Benally Jr., Dashey Francis, Thomas Jones, Kenneth Atcitty, Richard Begay Sr., David Lee, Gilbert Benally, Paul Lee, Sonny Pete, and Raymond Nolan.

A drive-thru reception will take place at Maryann and Gilbert’s residence in Shiprock, following services.

Cope Memorial is in charge of arrangements.

Freddy Wood Sr.

GALLUP — Graveside service for Freddy Wood Sr., 44, of Sawmill, Arizona, was held May 25 at the Gallup City Cemetery with Frankie Wood officiating.

Freddy was born Nov. 8, 1976, in Fort Defiance, into the Tó’áhaní (Near the Water Clan), born for Yoo’ó dine’é (Bead People Clan). He passed away May 19, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Freddy attended Window Rock High School and was employed as a mechanic and carpenter. He loved listening to music and was a Raiders fan.

Freddy is survived by his son, Freddy Wood Jr.; daughters, Krecynthia Wood, Kasandra Wood, Vanessa Renee Wood, and Kaydence Hailey Wood; father, Frankie Wood; brothers, Franklin Wood, Daniel Wood, Donald Wood, Derrick Wood, Derwin Wood, Adrian Wood, Nathaniel Wood, and Kendric Wood; and sisters, Kathlene and Carolyn.

Freddy is preceded in death by his mother, Caroline Wood; sister, Sharon Wood; and brother, Frank Wood.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Lyssa Rose Upshaw

FORT DEFIANCE — Funeral services for Lyssa Rose Upshaw, 13, of Fort Defiance, were held May 25 at the Assembly of God Church in Fort Defiance, with Pastor James Bennett Jr. officiating. Interment followed at the Rainbow Ridge family plot in Fort Defiance.

Lyssa was born July 16, 2007, at the Tséhootsooí Medical Center in Fort Defiance, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Naakai dine’é (Mexican Clan). She passed away May 16, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Lyssa was going to be promoted from the 8th grade on May 27, 2021, from Tséhootsooí Middle School. She loved drawing, jogging, going on walks, fishing, riding bikes, and spending time with her brothers.

Lyssa is survived by her mother, Marissa Rose Jones; brothers, Kenneth E.M. Long and Evan David Upshaw; and grandparents, Karl Atcitty Sr., Mike Jones and Marilyn Mark.

Lyssa is preceded in death by her father, Scott David Upshaw; uncle, Karl Atcitty Jr.; and grandmother, Dylane R. Begay.

Pallbearers were Kenneth Long, Evan Upshaw, Amos Mark, Modrian Chase, Ryan Begay, Everytt Begay Jr., Ronnie Cone, and Raul Charbonier.

Honorary pallbearers were Karl Atcitty Sr., Mike Jones, Everytt Begay Sr., Danny Atcitty, Daryl Begay, Danielle Jones, and Lyle Jackson.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Mary Ann Black

KAYENTA — Graveside service for Mary Ann Black, 76, of Kayenta, was held May 21 at the Kayenta community cemetery.

Mary was born Oct. 21, 1944, in Kayenta. She passed from this life May 14, 2021, in Farmington, New Mexico.

Desert View Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Melissa Renee Aragon

FORT DEFIANCE — Graveside service for Melissa Renee Aragon, 44, of Fort Defiance, will be held Friday, May 28, at 1 p.m., at the Fort Defiance cemetery.

Melissa was born May 9, 1977, in Fort Defiance. She passed away May 12, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Melissa is survived by her son, Nicholas Craig; daughters, Tenee and Megan Craig; parents, Michelle Bowman and David Aragon; and sisters, Cynthia, Amber, Catherine, Grace, and Clarissa Aragon.

Pallbearers will be William Craig, Alerin Craig, Aaron Yazzie, Alec Yazzie, Eric Silago, and Nicholas Singer.

Silver Creek Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Olin Dean Watchman

FORT DEFIANCE — Graveside service for Olin Dean Watchman, of Fort Defiance, was held May 24 at the Tunnel Springs family plot in Fort Defiance, with Pastor Daniel Gamill officiating.

Olin was born Sept. 12, 1975, in Fort Defiance, into the Hashtl’ishnii (Mud Clan), born for Mą’ii deeshgiizhinii (Coyote Pass Clan). He passed away May 12, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Olin attended Navajo Elementary School and Window Rock High School. He was self-employed and worked for the Navajo Nation Forestry.

Olin enjoyed helping people and caring for his grandmothers and animals, as well as fishing with his cousins.

Olin is survived by his mother, Julie Ann Clarke; and grandmothers, Nellie Laughing and Julie H. Price.

Olin is preceded in death by Ernest Watchman, Vay Marie Fuson, Esther Watchman, and Charley Watchman.

Pallbearers were Loren Begay, Julian Laughlin Jr., Ron Blackgoat, Fabian Cromwell, Leo Showie Jr., and Alan Watchman.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for May 27, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Janel Marion Litson

BLACKROCK, Ariz. — Graveside service for Janel Marion Litson, 40, of Mesa, Arizona, was held June 2 at the family plot in Blackrock, Arizona, with Fanny Bahe officiating.

Janel was born Nov. 18, 1980, in Tuba City, into the Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), born for Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). She passed away May 21, 2021, in Phoenix.

Janel graduated from Navajo Pine High School and attended Mesa Community College, receiving a bachelor’s degree in speech and hearing science from Arizona State University. She was employed as a speech and hearing pathologist for Theracare Pediatric Services.

Honorary pallbearers were Stanley Litson Sr., James Litson, Leo Hoskie, Lester Hudson, Matthew Todakonzie, Valentino “Kipp” Ray, and Brannon Holtsoi.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Nellie Nabahe Witherspoon

FORT MOHAVE, Ariz. — Nellie Nabahe Witherspoon, 84, passed away May 24, 2021, at her home in Fort Mohave, Arizona. She was born in June 1936 on the mountain at a place called Long Lake, near Crystal, New Mexico.

Nellie’s mother’s clan was Dólii dine’e’ Táchii’nii and her father’s clan was Bit’ahnii. Her maternal grandfather’s clan was Naalani, which came from a Southern Cheyenne and Comanche, whom her grandmother met while staying with the Navajos at Fort Sumner. Her paternal grandfathers are Kinyaa’áanii.

Nellie’s family’s main household was eight miles east of Naschitti, New Mexico. She spoke only Navajo until she was enrolled at Tohatchi Elementary School at 8 years of age. Following Tohatchi, she was enrolled in the Intermountain Indian Boarding School in Brigham City, Utah.

Nellie served a mission for the LDS Church in Hawaii from 1958 to 1960, and then worked at the boarding school in Shiprock, where she met Gary Witherspoon. They were married in 1964, both in the Salt Lake Temple and in a Navajo wedding at her home in Naschitti.

Two of Nellie’s children and seven of her grandchildren have won Manuelito scholarships. Her oldest son served on the Navajo Nation Council as the representative for five chapters in the Dzil Yijiin Region from 2011 to 2018.

Nellie is survived by her husband of 56 years, Dr. Gary Witherspoon; children, Dwight, David, Deanna, and Johnny; and 16 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Nellie is preceded in death by her son, Gary Jr.

Anthony J. Largo

IYANBITO, N.M. — Anthony J. Largo, of Iyanbito, New Mexico, was born Oct. 24, 1953, into the Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan), born for Tó baazhní’ázhí (Two Who Came To the Water Clan). He passed away May 15, 2021, at his home peacefully surrounded by his loving family. He was buried at a family private location.

Anthony, affectionately known as Tony, was a loving son and brother. He graduated from Gallup High School in 1973 and worked for P&M Coal Mine in Tse Bonito, New Mexico, as a dragline operator.

Upon retirement, Tony worked at home doing silversmith work, woodworking, and helping his family, as well as reading about God, military history, politics, Navajo history, the world in general, and thinking about his place in it.

Tony enjoyed construction, woodworking, silversmith work, gardening, traveling, watching classic Western movies and sitcoms, and spending time with family. His jewelry was sought all over the world with many buyers from the fashion industry.

Tony was also an avid handyman, working around the homestead in Iyanbito, creating an amazing landscape and home that is admired by all.

Tony’s love for God and acceptance of Jesus as his Lord and Savior was only matched by his love for family.

Tony is survived by his sisters, Velma L. Manual, Darlene L. Shepard and LaVina R. Loving; and brother, Alvin W. Largo.

Tony is preceded in death by his mother, Rosella C. Largo; father, Buck J. Largo; and sisters, Evalena Largo, Melva J. Largo and Iva G. Wilson.

The Largo family wishes to send their thanks and appreciation for all the outpouring of love and support during this time of loss.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Virgil Natani

BRIGHAM CITY, Utah — Graveside service for Virgil Natani, 61, was held June 1 at the Brigham City Cemetery in Brigham City, Utah.

Virgil was born Nov. 2, 1959, in Brigham City, son of Willie Natani and Harriet Willeto Begay Sr. He passed away May 27, 2021, of natural causes at the McKay Dee Hospital in Ogden, Utah.

Virgil met Selena Billie and they lived the last 40 years together raising their family.

Virgil graduated from Box Elder High School in 1978 and attended Weber State University, Utah State University and Haskell Indian College in Lawrence, Kansas.

Virgil worked for Intermountain Indian School, Autoliv, and as a haul truck driver for Barrick Gold Mine in Elko, Nevada, retiring in November 2014. He was a member of the Native American Church and Alpine Church.

Virgil loved to drive, work with his hands and multimedia, etching, and was a craftsman. He also enjoyed being a traditional healer and was called upon to do prayers for those in need across Indian Country. His greatest love was being with his family. He had a desire to learn and was dedicated to reading his bible.

Virgil is survived by his wife, Selena; children, Manuelito Natani, Tiffany Natani and Parnell Atencio; siblings, Glenn (Lena) Begay of Mexican Water, Utah, Loretta Begay of Brigham City, Willie (Alvina) Natani Begay Jr. of Vancouver, Washington, Gerald Begay of Brigham City, and Christy (Larry) Reitbauer of Brigham City; aunts and uncle, Cecelia Willeto, Louise Wellito, Ann Gordo, and Paul Willeto; the Buckskin Family of Fort Hall, Idaho; and three grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Virgil is preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Aja Cutfinger-Natani; and in-laws, Thomas and Emma Billie of Aneth, Utah.

The family would like to thank the palliative care at McKay Dee-Hospital for their wonderful care that was given through the doctors and nurses.

For additional details about Virgil’s services, including any available live streams, visit https://my.gather.app/remember/virgil-natani.

Gillies Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements. Condolences can be sent to www.gfc-utah.com.

Irby Mae Smith

REHOBOTH, N.M. — Funeral services for Irby Mae Smith, 70, of Crownpoint, will be held Tuesday, June 8, at 10 a.m., at the Rehoboth Christian Reformed Church in Rehoboth, New Mexico, with Rev. Stanley Jim officiating. Burial will follow in Rehoboth.

Irby was born Oct. 3, 1950, in Gallup, into the Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan), born for Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan). Her nalí is Haltsooí (Meadow People); cheii is Tsin sikaadnii (Clamp Tree). She passed away May 30, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Irby graduated from Gallup High School in 1969 and was employed with the Navajo Nation for 50-plus years.

Irby is survived by her son, Vincent Smith Jr.; daughters, Vichelle Smith, Velynda Smith and Vetesha Smith; and one grandson and five great-grandchildren.

Irby is preceded in death by her parents, Art and Emma H. Sandoval; sister, Marie A. Lincoln; brothers, Roland A. Sandoval Sr. and Robert E. Sandoval Sr.; and nephew, Roland Sandoval Jr.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Everett Dennison Manuelito Sr.

REHOBOTH, N.M. — Funeral services for Everett Dennison Manuelito Sr., 82, of Buffalo Springs, New Mexico, will be held Friday, June 4, at 10 a.m., at the Rehoboth Christian Reformed Church in Rehoboth, New Mexico, with Rev. Stanley Jim officiating. Burial will follow in Buffalo Springs.

Everett was born June 12, 1938, in Tohatchi, New Mexico, into the Kinłichíi’nii (Red House People Clan), born for Tl’ógí (Weaver-Zia Clan). He passed away May 22, 2021, in Gallup.

Everett graduated from Riverside Indian School on May 9, 1958, in Anadarko, Oklahoma, retiring from El Paso Natural Gas Company. He enjoyed fishing when he could and avidly studied the bible.

Everett is survived by his wife, Martha S. Manuelito; sons, Ferlin Manuelito and Everett D. Manuelito Jr.; daughters, Everetta Manuelito Jerry, Tabitha Manuelito and Christina Manuelito; brothers, Ernest Manuelito, Sherman Manuelito and Melvin Manuelito; and sisters, Mary E. Begay, Barbara Manuelito and Charlene Manuelito.

Everett is preceded in death by Charles Manuelito, Emma Dennison Manuelito, Esther Manuelito, Louis Manuelito, Elsie Mae Manuelito, and Marvin Manuelito.

Pallbearers will be McKenzie Benally, Tyrone Jerry, Lias Hastings, Elijah Bitah, Stewart Francisco, and Pete Garcia IV.

Honorary pallbearers will be Ferlin Manuelito, Everett Manuelito Jr., Ernest Manuelito, Melvin Manuelito, and Sherman Manuelito.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Emerson Barker

HOUCK, Ariz. — Emerson Barker, 59, of Houck, Arizona, was born Jan. 17, 1962, in Gallup. He passed away May 29, 2021, in Houck.

Emerson attended Valley High School in Sanders, Arizona, and the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe. He was self-employed and enjoyed painting, cooking, listening to music, and watching movies.

Emerson is survived by his sons, Renus Barker, Derrick Barker and Matthew Barker; brothers, Anderson Barker and Jonah Barker; sisters, Evangeline Barker and Lula McConnell; and two grandchildren.

Emerson is preceded in death by his parents, Agnes and James Barker Sr.; and brother, James Barker Jr.

Silver Creek Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Benson Jim

GALLUP — Graveside service for Benson Jim, 56, of Sundance, New Mexico, will be held Monday, June 7, at 2 p.m., at the Gallup City Cemetery. He was born Sept. 18, 1964, in Fort Defiance.

Benson is survived by his wife, Jill Jim; daughter, Roxanne Epaloose; parents, Judy Lynch and Sampson Jim; sister, Trudy Jim; and five grandchildren.

Benson is preceded in death by his sister, Deborah Joe.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Brian Lee

GALLUP — Funeral services for Brian Lee, 35, of Twin Lakes, New Mexico, will be held Saturday, June 5, at 10 a.m., Rollie Mortuary in Gallup, with Pastor Irvin Nez officiating. Burial will follow at the Gallup City Cemetery.

Brian was born July 6, 1985, in Gallup, into the Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan), born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). He passed away May 28, 2021, in Twin Lakes.

Brian attended Twin Lakes Elementary, Ch’ooshgai Community School and Tohatchi High School. He worked for Big-O Tires and Quintano Construction.

Brian enjoyed staying home and babysitting his nieces and nephews, and spending time with family.

Brian is survived by his mother, Clara Lee; brothers, Benjamin Brown, Vinson Lee and Benson Lee Jr.; and sisters, Charlene Lee and Shannia Lee.

Brian is preceded in death by his father, Benson Lee Sr.; brothers, Dennison Lee and Aaron Lee; and grandparents, Elsie and Johnny E. Claude.

Pallbearers will be Daniel Contreras, Benjamin Brown, Benson Lee Jr., Anderson Claude, Anson Claude, Miles Barney, and Garrison Claude.

Honorary pallbearers will be Vinson Lee and Larry Tsosie.

A reception will take place at Shannia Lee’s residence in Twin Lakes, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for June 3, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Pauline Neutonla Tsingine

FLAGSTAFF — Graveside service for Pauline Neutonla Tsingine, 96, was held June 9 at the Flagstaff Citizen’s Cemetery, Veterans Section, with Associate Pastor Lawrence Tsingine officiating.

Pauline was born Jan. 23, 1925, in Hotevilla, Arizona. Her mother is from the Tobacco Clan and her father is from the Snake Clan. She passed away June 5, 2021, in Phoenix.

Pauline attended Oraibi Day School from first to eighth grade and continued her education at Santa Fe Indian School, graduating in 1945. After graduating, she briefly worked in California and later returned to Arizona to work at Flagstaff Medical Center in the food service department. While she worked there, she later met her future husband, Byron L. Tsingine.

Pauline also worked as a dorm attendant for the Bureau of Indian Affairs boarding schools at Leupp, Nazlini, Many Farms, and Kaibeto, Arizona. She enjoyed ranching, traditional Hopi duties, and supporting her eight children, 21 grandchildren and 19 great-great-grandchildren.

Byron and Pauline were inducted into the Flagstaff Sports Foundation 2016 Hall of Fame.

Pauline is survived by her sons, Byron Tsingine Jr., Lawrence K. Tsingine, Willard Tsingine, and Raymond Tsingine, all of Tuba City, and Glenn W. Tsingine of St. Michaels, Arizona; daughters, Barbara J. Ashley of Gilbert, Arizona, and Janet Tsingine of Tuba City; brother, Bruce Talawyma of Hotevilla; and sister, Melvina Ovah of Polacca, Arizona; and 22 grandchildren and 19 great-great-grandchildren.

Pauline is preceded in death by her husband, Byron L. Tsingine; son, Ward Tsingine; father, Lester Quanitewa; mother, Nancy Talawyma; stepfather, Johnathan Talawyma; and brothers, Ervin Talawyma and Karl Talawyma.

Pallbearers were grandsons, Tyler Tsingine, Nolan Tsingine, Craig Tsingine, Dean Tsingine, Ryan Tsingine, Cameron Tsingine, and Kyle Ashley.

A celebration of Pauline’s life will take place in the near future.

Donations may be made to Pauline’s daughter, Janet Tsingine, at 928-606-0146.

Norvel Owens Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Julia Lydia Upshaw

ST. MICHAELS, Ariz. — Graveside service for Julia Lydia Upshaw, 76, of St. Michaels, Arizona, will be held today, June 10, at 11 a.m., in St. Michaels, with Father Edgardo officiating.

Julia was born July 6, 1945, into the Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover Clan), born for Kinłichíi’nii (Red House People Clan). Her nalí is ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People); cheii is Tsenabahiłnii (Sleep Rock). She passed away June 6, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Julia retired from the Navajo Nation and enjoyed driving, listening to KTNN and spending time with family and friends.

Julia is survived by her daughters, Vivian Upshaw, Juliana Upshaw and Victoria Upshaw; brothers, Tommy Castillo and Toni Castillo; and 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Julia is preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Upshaw Sr.; and sons, Stephen Upshaw, Irvin Upshaw, Herman Upshaw, and Raymond Upshaw Jr.

Pallbearers will be Kyle Upshaw Sr., Jaden Upshaw, Richard Castaneda, Calvin Castillo, Gary Largo, and Jimson Largo.

Honorary pallbearers will be Tommy Castillo, Toni Castillo, Ben Upshaw, Gerald Upshaw, and Bernard Lee.

A drive-thru reception will take place at the Upshaw residence in St. Michaels, following service.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Marie Yazzie

PAGE, Ariz. — Funeral services for Marie Yazzie, 88, were held June 9 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building with Bishop Josh Smith officiating. Interment followed at the Page City Cemetery in Page, Arizona.

Marie was born in Steamboat, Arizona, to the late Harry and Yannebah Brown. She was Mą’ii deeshgiizhinii (Coyote Pass Clan), born into Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). Her maternal father’s clan is Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water) and her paternal father’s clan is Tsi’naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). She passed away June 4, 2021, at the Beehive Assistant Living Facility in Page.

Marie obtained her education at the Chemawa Indian Boarding School, in Salem, Oregon. She was employed as an instructional/dormitory aid at several boarding schools from Richfield, Utah, to several other cities in Arizona, including Kinlichee, Snowflake, and Toyei.

In her later years, Marie was known as a cook’s helper at various local restaurants, including the famed Empire House, Holiday Inn, and several truck stops. She was a longtime member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Marie was known for her excellent skills as a seamstress and cooking both traditional and modern dishes. Her hobbies included dancing, beading, knitting, gardening, and some weaving in the past.

Marie will be remembered for her outstanding homemaking skills, her love for all, remaining strong and determined, and her sweet and caring characteristics.

Marie is survived by her sister, Bessie Woody of Steamboat; children, Victoria (Johnny) Klain, Victor (Roberta) Mannie, of Page, and Andrew Mannie of Denver; and 23 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Marie is preceded in death by her husband, Joe M. Yazzie; first husband, Francis Mannie; daughters, Thelma and Colleen Mannie; and sons, Alfonso, Franklin, and Steven Mannie.

Marshall Wayne June

SAWMILL, Ariz. — Graveside service for Marshall Wayne June, 38, of Fort Defiance, was held June 5 at the family burial site in Sawmill, Arizona, with Rev. Cathalena Plummer officiating.

Marshall was born Dec. 22, 1982, in Rehoboth, New Mexico, into the Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan), born for Tsi’naajinii (Black Streak Wood People Clan). He passed away May 29, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Marshall graduated from Window Rock High School in 2001 and received an associate’s degree in theater fine arts from Mesa Community College on May 9, 2014.

Marshall served in the U.S. Army as a cavalry scout sergeant and worked as a security officer at the Window Rock School District, salesman at Ed Corley Dodge, counselor at Crossroads, Inc., and security officer at Securitas.

Marshall enjoyed watching movies, Marvel and DC, collecting Batman memorabilia, and haunted attractions. He was a Dallas Cowboys fan and enjoyed acting in theatre plays and small parts in motion pictures.

Marshall is survived by his parents, Lynnette Etsitty and Michael Wayne June; brother, Wesley White; sisters, ReAnna Bahe, Leona Swanson (Bahe), Tarren June, and Ahedabah June; and grandparents, Rosemary Wade and Eustace Etsitty.

Marshall is preceded in death by his aunt, Elaine Faye Yazza; maternal grandmother, Dinah Mae Yazza; and paternal grandfather, Allen June.

Pallbearers were Stephen Swanson, Michael R. Yazza, Malcolm Yazza, Wilton Howard, Raymond Howard, and Shelby Lee.

Honorary pallbearers were Gilbert Bahe, Melvin Yazza, Wilbert Segodi, Michael Wayne June, and Dennison Shirley.

Cope Memorial was in charge of arrangements.

Jessi Marina Long

GALLUP — Funeral services for Jessi Marina Long, 28, of Standing Rock, New Mexico, will be held today, June 10, at 10 a.m., at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup, with Father Dale Jamison officiating. Burial will follow in Gallup.

Jessi was born March 3, 1993, in Gallup, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Tó’aheedlíinii (Water Flow Together Clan). She passed away May 30, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Jessi graduated from Crownpoint High School and was employed as a restaurant server. She enjoyed singing and cooking.

Jessi is survived by her parents, Shirleen and Marvin Long; brothers, Michael Long and Lance Lee; sisters, Sondra Long and Adrienne Long; maternal grandmother, Shirley Yazzie; and paternal grandmother, Helen Long.

Jessi is preceded in death by her sister, Dalenna Long; brother, Christian Long; aunt, Calandra Yazzie; uncles, Tommy Long Jr. and Ricky Long; maternal grandfather, Anson Yazzie; and paternal grandfather, Tommy Long Sr.

Pallbearers will be Marvin Long, Michael Long, Lance Lee, Nolan Charley, John Charley, and Jolan Dixon.

Honorary pallbearers will be Jaiden Long, Nicholas Yazzie, Jacob Yazzie, Kaleb Yazzie, Adrian Yazzie, Gerald Long, and Tylor Dixon.

A reception will take place at the Gallup Community Center, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Jessie Etsitty

DEL MUERTO, Ariz. — Graveside service for Jessie Etsitty, 95, of Del Muerto, Arizona, will be held Friday, June 11, at 10 a.m., at the Del Muerto community cemetery with Kenneth Etsitty officiating.

Jessie was born March 26, 1926, in Del Muerto, into the ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). She passed away June 11, 2021, in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Jessie worked at Mount Rose with sugar beets for 15 years. She loved to weave, do beadwork, pick piñons, and being in the canyon. She loved her animals, children and grandchildren.

Jessie is survived by her sons, Kenneth Etsitty and Dalton VanWinkle; daughter, Bessie VanWinkle; and 27 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren and one fourth-generation grandchild.

Jessie is preceded in death by her husband, Wilfred Etsitty; brother, Ben Bahe Sr.; and parents, Blanche and Denet Bahe.

Pallbearers will be Manuel Tahnazani, Dennis VanWinkle Jr., Dennison VanWinkle, Delson VanWinkle, Kenrick Etsitty, and Kendrick Etsitty.

Honorary pallbearers will be Dalton VanWinkle, Kenneth Etsitty, Clarence Bahe, DaiShawn VanWinkle, Ben Bahe Jr., and Emerson Bahe.

A drive-thru reception will take place at the Twin Trails Miracle Church, following service.

Silver Creek Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Ethel Smith

GALLUP — Funeral services for Ethel Smith, 89, of Tohatchi, New Mexico, will be held Monday, June 14, at 10 a.m., at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup, with Pastor Roger Scarbro officiating. Burial will follow at the Tohatchi community cemetery.

Ethel was born Sept. 18, 1931, in Rehoboth, New Mexico, into the Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan), born for ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan). She passed away June 2, 2021, in Gallup.

Ethel attended primary education and was employed at Gallup McKinley County Schools as a cafeteria supervisor in Tohatchi. She was a notable seamstress, crochet award-winning artist, chef of renowned recognition, and her beadwork was of superior excellence. She enjoyed gardening and taking care of the livestock.

Ethel is survived by her sons, Virgil Smith of Gallup, Bobby Smith Jr. of Tohatchi, and Calvin Smith of Gallup; and six grandchildren and 6-plus great-grandchildren.

Ethel is preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Smith Sr.; daughter, Murlee Smith Hollowhorn; brother, John Henry Arviso; mother, Nellie Brink Arviso; father, Joe Jesus Arviso; and grandson, Mitt Hollowhorn.

Pallbearers will be Bobby Smith Jr., Calvin Smith, Konnor Hollowhorn, Colt Hollowhorn, Bogart Hollowhorn, and Tyler Allison.

A drive-thru reception will take place at the Tohatchi Chapter House, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Chester Franklin Sr.

SHIPROCK — Funeral services for Chester Franklin Sr., 89, of Shiprock, will be held Friday, June 11, at 10 a.m., at Christ the King Catholic Church in Shiprock, with Father Patrick C. Wedekind officiating. Burial will follow at the Kirtland cemetery in Kirtland, New Mexico.

Chester was born May 30, 1931, in Newcomb, New Mexico, into the Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan), born for Tł’ááshchí’í (Red Bottom People Clan). He passed away May 29, 2021, in Farmington.

Chester worked for Boeing Aircraft (Washington), the railroad, Navajo Forestry Products Industry, and P&M Coal Mine.

Chester is survived by his sons, Chester Franklin Jr., John Franklin, Richard Franklin, and Daryl Franklin; daughters, Jeannette Johnson, Janice Etcitty and Christine Talkalai; brothers, Harry Franklin and Wilfred Franklin Sr.; sister, Esther Begay; and 37 grandchildren and 54 great-grandchildren.

Chester is preceded in death by his mother, Mamie Franklin; father, Franklin “Billy” Yazzie; sons, Stephen Franklin, Angelo Begay and Andrew Begay; and grandson, Joey Franklin.

Pallbearers will be John Franklin, Richard Franklin, Bryan Franklin, Julian Franklin, Fillson Talkalai, and Derrick Franklin.

Honorary pallbearers will be Chester Franklin Jr., Jeremy Franklin, Ryan Franklin, Daryl Franklin, Bruce Stash, and Herman Whitney.

A reception will take place in Shiprock, following services.

Cope Memorial Chapel—Kirtland is in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for June 10, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Stella Mae Freeland

GALLUP — Funeral services for Stella Mae Freeland, 88, of Crownpoint, will be held Friday, June 18, at 10 a.m., at the Rollie Mortuary Chapel in Gallup, with Pastor Aaron Nelson officiating. Burial will follow at the Crownpoint community cemetery.

Stella was born Sept. 1, 1932, in Mexican Springs, New Mexico, into the Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan), born for Tl’ógí (Weaver-Zia Clan). She passed away June 12, 2021, in Gallup.

Stella attended Sherman Institute in Riverside, California, and worked as a dorm aide at Crownpoint Boarding School and manager at the Crownpoint Senior Citizen Center. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, cooking, ceramics, and gardening.

Stella is survived by her son, Darryll Freeland; daughters, Mildred Ross and Alberta Freeland; sisters, Wanita Skeet and Bessie Dawes; and nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Stella is preceded in death by her husband, Herbert V. Freeland Sr.; daughter, Roberta Freeland; son, Herbert V. Freeland Jr.; parents, Elsie and Tom Jim; sisters, Katherine Malone, Gladys Tony and Evelyn Upshaw; and brother, Teddy Jim.

Pallbearers will be Houston Ross, Kendrick Freeland, James Yazzie, Uriah Yazzie, Jaydon Yazzie, and Alphozo Mann.

Honorary pallbearers will be Darryll Freeland, Lee Skeet, Roland Skeet, Kenneth Jones, Tom Jones, Dr. Franklin Freeland, Errol Blackwater, and Rydell Curley.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Herbert Hoover Tsosie Sr.

GALLUP — Funeral services for Herbert Hoover Tsosie Sr., 92, of Fort Defiance, were held June 15 at the Rollie Mortuary Chapel in Gallup, with Roscoe D. Smith officiating. Interment followed at the Fort Defiance Veterans Cemetery.

Herbert was born March 4, 1929, in Fort Defiance, into the Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan), born for Kinłichíi’nii (Red House People Clan). He passed away June 5, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Herbert attended Fort Defiance Indian School and Chilocco Indian School in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1946 to 1949, serving in World War II.

As a youth, Herbert worked at an ice plant in Kansas City. He also worked for NFPI, NHDE, and the Navajo Nation, retiring as manager of Red Lake Chapter House.

Herbert enjoyed watching western/war movies and game shows, traveling, and telling jokes in Navajo. He loved sports and was a fan of the San Francisco 49ers.

Herbert is survived by his wife, Aurelia J. Tsosie; sons, Vernon H. Tsosie, Emerson D. Tsosie, Herbert H. Tsosie III, and O. Eric Tsosie; daughter, Doris M. Tsosie; brothers, Calvin H. Tsosie and Douglas Tsosie; sisters, Betty T. Hubbard and Gloria Gorman; and 10 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren.

Herbert is preceded in death by his parents, Katherine and Wallace Tsosie; brother, Freddie Tsosie; sisters, Angela Billie and Elizabeth J. Tsosie; and sons, Marvin H. Tsosie and Herbert H. Tsosie.

Pallbearers were Emerson D. Tsosie, Pierre R. Tsosie, Pierson B. Tsosie, Valentino R. Aubrey, and Kyle Gantar.

Honorary pallbearers were Herbert H. Tsosie III and O. Eric Tsosie.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Garrick Clauschee Benallie

CHINLE — Graveside service for Garrick Clauschee Benallie was held June 7 at the Chinle cemetery with Pastor Walt Jones officiating.

Garrick was born Feb. 5, 1979, in Albuquerque, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Honágháahnii (One-walks-around Clan). His maternal grandfather is Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House) and his paternal grandfather is ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People). He passed away May 23, 2021, in Phoenix.

Garrick received his high school diploma from Many Farms High School and attended Fort Lewis College, receiving a construction certificate from Navajo Technical University. He was a skilled carpenter and operated his own business doing home renovations and construction.

Garrick loved cooking for the family and was an expert cook at various restaurants in Chinle and Winslow, Arizona. He was multi-talented and enjoyed listening to music. His favorite teams were the Phoenix Suns and Arizona Cardinals.

Garrick volunteered to help his relatives and made monetary donations to strangers. He loved his children, family and welcomed visitors to his home offering them refreshments or cooking for them.

Garrick will be dearly missed by his wife, children, siblings, and family. We will miss his friendly greetings and his personality of a happy-go-lucky person.

Garrick is survived by his wife, Santanna R. Benallie; daughter, Brooklyn Benallie; sons, Dakotah A. Benallie and Jerrick Benallie of Tsaile, Arizona; stepsons, Mason Wilson and Arron Jones of Winslow; stepdaughters, Autumn Wilson and Enphany Begay; father, Andrew Benallie Sr. of Chinle; sisters, Mryna Benallie of Chinle, Audrey Benallie of Albuquerque, and Andritta Nez of Scottsdale, Arizona; and brothers, Dwayn Benallie of Albuquerque, Steven Benallie of Chinle, Anthony (Tony) Benallie of Kirtland, New Mexico, Benjamin Benallie of Chinle, Andrew Benallie Jr. of Window Rock, Christopher Benallie Sr. of Santa Fe, and Ronald Benallie of Phoenix.

Garrick is preceded in death by his mother, Helena Clauschee Benallie; sister, Andrea Benallie; brothers, Darly Benallie and Mathew Benallie; and maternal and paternal grandparents.

Pallbearers were Dwayn Benallie, Steven Benallie, Anthony Benallie, Benjamin Benallie, Ronald Benallie, and Arron Francis.

Chad E. Tsosie

STAR POND, N.M. — Funeral services for Chad E. Tsosie, 24, of Crownpoint, were held June 12 at the Word of God Church in Star Pond, New Mexico, with Carlos Baki officiating. Interment followed at the family plot in Star Pond.

Chad was born June 13, 1996, in Crownpoint, into the ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan), born for Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). He passed away June 7, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Chad is survived by his parents, April Barbone and Everrick Tsosie; and sisters, Robyn Yazzie, Allysia Tsosie, Rhiannon Tsosie, and Kiersten Tsosie.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Jerry Elwood Sr.

GALLUP — Funeral services for Jerry Elwood Sr., 88, will be held Monday, June 21, at 10 a.m., at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup. Burial will follow at the Gallup State Veterans Cemetery.

Jerry was born May 19, 1933, in Shiprock, into the Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan), born for Tó’aheedlíinii (Water Flow Together Clan). His maternal grandparents are Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House) and paternal grandparents are Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water). He passed away June 13, 2021.

Jerry was a Korean War veteran and served proudly as a sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps. He has lived in and raised his family in Standing Rock, New Mexico, since 1975.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 53 years, Marjorie Elwood; and children, Jerome Elwood, Jerry Elwood Jr., Justin Elwood, Julius Elwood, and Miranda Elwood.

Pallbearers will be Ohmry Secatero, Wade Elwood, Ethan Elwood, Melvin Jim, Daniel Boyd, and Emery Willie.

Honorary pallbearers will be Taylor Elwood, Jerry Elwood Jr., Justin Elwood, Jerome Elwood, and Julius Elwood.

To-go food will be served at the Gallup Community Service Center (across from the Food Pantry) in Gallup, following services.

Drive-up donations will be accepted today, June 17, at Navajo Nation Route 9, mile marker 25, and Standing Rock Chapter turnoff from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Donations are also welcome via Zelle to Miranda Elwood at 970-234-4619.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Lillie Thomas

SHIPROCK — Lillie Thomas, 76, of Shiprock, passed from this life June 8, 2021, in Hobbs, New Mexico. She was born May 17, 1945, in Chilchinbeto, Arizona.

Lillie is in the care of Desert View Funeral Home in Shiprock.

Paul Milford

RED LAKE, Ariz. — Graveside service for Paul Milford, 89, of Red Lake, Arizona, will be held today, June 17, at 10 a.m., in Red Lake, with Rev. Blane Grein officiating.

Paul was born Jan. 23, 1932, in Red Lake, into the Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), born for Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan). He passed away June 7, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Paul attended McKinley High School in Berkeley, California, Sherman Institute in Riverside, California, St. Michaels Indian School in St. Michaels, Arizona, and Crystal Boarding School in Crystal, New Mexico.

As a Korean War veteran, Paul served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1950 to 1954. He worked for the Window Rock Unified School District, chapter official for Red Lake No. 18 Chapter, General Dynamics, and General Electric.

Paul enjoyed ranching, farming, sports, and outdoor activities.

Paul is survived by his son, Tim Milford; daughters, Janice Deal, Amanda Milford-Joe, Lisa G. Milford, and Alisia J. Milford; sisters, Helena M. Tsabetsaye and Mary A. Benally; and 14 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Paul is preceded in death by Julia R. Milford and Nathan R. Deal.

Pallbearers will be Basilio Tsabetsaye, Johnny Tsabetsaye, Ortega Wauneka, Austin Wauneka, Edward Silversmith Jr., and Akando E. Wauneka.

Honorary pallbearers will be Christopher P. Davis, Dwayne R. Pacheco, Brendan S. Tsosie, Anthony P. Milford, and Daniel P. Milford.

A reception will take place at the St. Berard Catholic Parish Hall (101 Cedar Ave.) in Navajo, New Mexico, following service.

Silver Creek Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for June 17, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Donna Mae Becenti

CROWNPOINT — Funeral services for Donna Mae Becenti, 75, of Crownpoint, will be held Friday, June 25, at 10 a.m., at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Crownpoint, with Rev. Isaac Ogba officiating. Burial will follow in Crownpoint.

Donna was born Dec. 21, 1945, in Crownpoint, into the Tó’aheedlíinii (Water Flow Together Clan), born for Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). Her nalí is Tsenabahi?nii (Sleep Rock People); cheii is Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover). She passed away June 20, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Donna received a master’s from Northern Arizona University and was an educator for 45 years for McKinley County Schools.

Donna was a parishioner of St. Paul’s Catholic Church and her greatest joy was keeping up with her children and grandchildren. Some of her favorite pastimes include sewing, reading, enjoying the Crownpoint horizons, traveling, and learning new things.

Donna is survived by her son, Kevin R. Becenti; daughter, Karyth L. Becenti; brothers, Abel Becenti and Emmett Becenti; sister, Priscilla Becenti-Plimpton; and five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Donna is preceded in death by her mother, Louise Cowboy Becenti; father, Ned Earl Becenti Sr.; and brother, Ned Earl Becenti Jr.

To-go food will be served at St. Paul’s Community Center following services.

Direct Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements.

Norma J. Watts

FORT DEFIANCE — Graveside service for Norma J. Watts, 61, of Fort Defiance, will be held Saturday, July 3, at 11 a.m., at 3 miles north on Old Red Lake Road in Fort Defiance, with Pastor Martin Haven officiating.

Norma was born May 7, 1958, in Rehoboth, New Mexico. She passed away May 3, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Norma enjoyed quilting, crocheting, collecting dolls, and spending time with her grandchildren and animals.

Norma is survived by her husband, Francisco Watts; sons, Adrian Watts and Nathan Watts; daughters, Albertina Watts and Christina Ruepong; and eight grandchildren.

Norma is preceded in death by her son, Mario Watts.

Pallbearers will be Nathan Watts and Andrew Ruepong.

Honorary pallbearers will be Francisco Watts, Adrian Watts, Malachi Watts, Isaiah Watts, Andre Ruepong, and Daniel Ruepong.

A reception will take place at the Watts residence, following service.

Cope Memorial is in charge of arrangements.

Elizabeth Ann Simpson

WINDOW ROCK — A private ceremony for Elizabeth Ann Simpson, 74, of Window Rock, will be held for only family.

Elizabeth was born Nov. 9, 1946, in Fort Collins, Colorado. She passed away June 17, 2021, in Window Rock.

Elizabeth attended Fort Collins High School in Fort Collins, Colorado, and the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colorado. She was employed as an art teacher for 18 years and enjoyed art, teaching, reading, and her grandchildren.

Elizabeth is survived by her son, Jeremy (Pamela) Simpson of Window Rock; daughter, Carrie McKenzie of Mound, Minnesota; brothers, Edmund Benedict, David (Paula) Benedict and James Benedict, all of Fort Collins; and six grandchildren.

Elizabeth is preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy and Marion Benedict.

An expression of sympathy may be sent to the family of Elizabeth Simpson at 1818 Grandview Drive, Window Rock, AZ 86515.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Edwin Yazzie

GALLUP — Funeral services for Edwin Yazzie, 32, of Church Rock, New Mexico, were held June 22 at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup, with Peter Skeet John officiating. Interment followed at the Gallup City Cemetery.

Edwin was born Nov. 16, 1988, in Gallup, into the Tódík’ózhí (Salt Water Clan), born for Tó’áhaní (Near the Water Clan). He passed away June 18, 2021, in La Plata, New Mexico.

Edwin attended Sanders High School, Flagstaff High School and Job Corps. He was employed with AUI Inc. Construction.

Edwin enjoyed fishing, camping, traveling, and spending time with his wife, children, family, and friends. He was a loving and caring person who was a hard worker dedicated to his job.

Edwin is survived by his wife, Antoinette Marianito; son, Karlyle Yazzie; daughter, Delilah Yazzie; brothers, Leonard Yazzie Jr. of Gallup, Elroy Yazzie of Breadsprings, New Mexico, Mervin Yazzie Sr. and Erwin Yazzie, both of Lupton, Arizona; and sister, Nancita Padilla.

Edwin is preceded in death by his parents, Nancy and Leonard Yazzie Sr.

Pallbearers were Leonard Yazzie Jr., Elroy Yazzie, Mervin Yazzie Sr., Travis Yazzie, Mervin Yazzie Jr., Earl Tom, Brandon Jones, and Franklin Harrison.

Honorary pallbearers were Antoinette Marianito, Karlyle Ok’shi ok Yazzie, Delilah Rayne Yazzie, Erwin Yazzie, Nancita Padilla, and Shane Jones.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Mario F. Watts

FORT DEFIANCE — Graveside service for Mario F. Watts, 39, of Fort Defiance, will be held Saturday, July 3, at 11 a.m., at 3 miles on Old Red Lake Road in Fort Defiance, with Pastor Martin Haven officiating.

Mario was born Feb. 9, 1980, in Fort Defiance. He passed away Feb. 5, 2021, in Phoenix.

Mario enjoyed camping, fishing, baseball, and spending time with his children.

Mario is survived by his son, Dominic Watts; daughter, Delilah Watts; father, Francisco Watts; brothers, Adrian Watts and Nathan Watts; and sisters, Albertina Watts and Christina Watts.

Mario is preceded in death by his mother, Norma Watts.

Pallbearers will be Malachi Watts and Dan Smith Jr.

Honorary pallbearers will be Francisco Watts, Dominic Watts, Adrian Watts, Nathan Watts, Andrew Ruepong, Isaiah Watts, Andre Ruepong, and Daniel Ruepong.

A reception will take place at the Watts residence, following service.

Wyman Cremation and Burial is in charge of arrangements.

Brandon Marc Howe

SHIPROCK — Funeral services for Brandon Marc Howe, 37, of Shiprock, will be held Monday, June 28, at 10 a.m., at the Bethel Christian Reformed Church in Shiprock, with Pastor John Greydanus officiating. Burial will follow in Shiprock.

Brandon was born June 28, 1983, in Albuquerque. He passed away Nov. 25, 2020, in San Tan Valley, Arizona.

Brandon graduated with a pharmacy technician degree from Pima Medical Institute in 2004 in Mesa, Arizona. He worked for Walgreens and Food City pharmacies.

Brandon enjoyed playing golf and watching the L.A. Dodgers and Pittsburgh Steelers play.

Brandon is survived by his parents, Marie and Wilford Howe Sr.; brothers, Michael Howe and Wilford Howe Jr.; and sisters, Lynette Howe and Marla Jim.

Brandon is preceded in death by his cousin, Angelita Muskett; and grandmother, Zonnie Bahe.

At Season’s End Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Ronald John

KINLICHEE, Ariz. — Graveside service for Ronald John, 51, of Cross Canyon, Arizona, was held June 17 at the Kinlichee community cemetery in Kinlichee, Arizona.

Ronald was born Dec. 16, 1969, in Keams Canyon, Arizona, into the Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan), born for Tsénjíkiní (Honey Combed Rock People). His nalí is Táb??há (Water’s Edge); cheii is B??h Bitoodnii (Deer Spring). He passed away June 12, 2021, in Winslow, Arizona.

Ronald graduated from Many Farms High School in 1988 and from Gateway Community College in 1998. He was employed with the VA Local 469 as a fitter/welder for many companies for 16-plus years, retiring in 2014.

Ronald enjoyed rodeos, working on cars, hiking, basketball, traveling, grilling, and making friends.

Ronald is survived by his wife, Thamela Platero; son, Nickolos John; daughter, Tanya John; stepdaughters, Pamela Lee, Martina Lee, Kristen Lee, and Arlynda Lee; mother, Ella Mae John; brothers, Darrel John, Delbert John and Carlos John Jr.; sister, Charlene John; and seven step-grandchildren.

Ronald is preceded in death by his father, Carlos John Sr.; brothers, Carlton John and Charles John; one step-grandson; maternal grandparents, Bessie and Clarence Clah; and paternal grandparents, Irene and James John.

Honorary pallbearers were Delbert John, Darrell John, Carlos John Jr., Kevin Peshlakai, Augustine John, and Kevin Chan.

Summit Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Albert Billie

FORT DEFIANCE — Graveside service for Albert Billie, 28, of Fort Defiance, was held June 19 in Fort Defiance, with Pastor Haven officiating.

Albert was born July 10, 1992, in Fort Defiance, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan) and ‘Ásh??hí (Salt People Clan), born for Naakai Dine’é (Mexican Clan). He passed away June 16, 2021, in Tucson.

Albert enjoyed music, building things, walking, and drawing.

Albert is survived by his son, Dayson Billie; mother, Regina Tsosie; brothers, Jimmy Billie and Chester B. Billie; and sisters, Bertha Billie, Alberta A. Billie and Crystal M. Billie.

Albert is preceded in death by his grandparents, Gloria and Jimmy Scott, and Juanita and Ben Billie.

Pallbearers were Patrick Billie, Paterson Billie, Keith Tsosie, Marvin Tuley, Jimmy Billie, and Cory T. Barney.

Honorary pallbearers were Chester Billie and David Wauneka.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Kee C. Joe

WHIPPOORWILL, Ariz. — Graveside service for Kee C. Joe, 90, of Whippoorwill, Arizona, will be held Friday, June 25, at 10 a.m., at the family plot in Whippoorwill.

Kee was born Dec. 25, 1930, in Whippoorwill. He passed away June 19, 2021, in Farmington.

Desert View Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Christian Catron Coho

WINDOW ROCK — Christian Catron Coho, 19, of Window Rock, was born June 29, 2001, in Fort Defiance, into the Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover Clan), born for Naakai Dine’é (Mexican Clan). He passed away June 16, 2021, in Glendale, Arizona.

Christian attended Window Rock High School and was employed as a framer/carpenter. He enjoyed listening to music, welding, working out, nature walks, working, and becoming a first-time father.

Christian is survived by his father, Curtis Coho; brother, Christianson Catron Coho; and sisters, Shakira Shauree Keams, Curshawna Catron Coho and Cheyenne Rose Haudley.

Christian is preceded in death by his mother, Genevieve Wilson; aunt, Brenda Peterson; maternal grandmother, Jennie Peterson; and grandfather, Jimmie Ben Wilson Sr.

Pallbearers were Robert Chuyale, Wade Wilson, Robert Owens, Ted Bonnie Jr., Roger Peterson, and Edwin Yazzie Sr.

Honorary pallbearers were Zion Wilson and Aarold Roanhorse.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Rosita Ann Lee

WIDE RUINS, Ariz. — Graveside service for Rosita Ann Lee, 68, of Wide Ruins, Arizona, will be held today, June 24, at 8 a.m., at the Late Austin Lee Sr. family plot in Wide Ruins.

Rosita was born July 26, 1953, in Ganado, Arizona, into the Kinłichíi’nii (Red House People Clan), born for Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan). She passed away June 19, 2021, in Wide Ruins.

Rosita is survived by her sons, Steven Lee and Kevin Nalwood; daughter, Lisa Deckard; sisters, Rose Lee, Eleanor Lee, Elvira Atine, Laverne Souva, Nevelyn Froese, Rhoda Lee, and Cassandra Clark; and two grandsons.

Rosita is preceded in death by her mother, Adella Sam; father, Austin Lee Sr.; sister, Brenda Lee; and brothers, Emerson Lee and Austin Lee Jr.

Pallbearers will be Jack Deckard, Adrian Anderson, Jordan Nalwood, Eric Anderson, Mike Vigil, and Bradley Benally.

Honorary pallbearers will be Thomas Deckard, Steven Lee and Kevin Nalwood.

A reception will take place at Rose Lee’s residence in Wide Ruins, following service.

Silver Creek Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for June 24, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Carla Jean Marques

Carla Jean Marques

ALBUQUERQUE — Carla Jean (Hanley) Marques, 57, passed away Thursday, June 24, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by family and friends. She was born August 1964 in Tuba City, to Mary and Wallace Hanley.

Carla graduated from Window Rock High School in 1982 and then moved to Northern California to attend cosmetology school. She was employed at Peerless Electric in Berkley, California. During this time, she welcomed her son, Jerry Jr., who was her everything, her love, her life. She then relocated to Albuquerque, where she spent the next 28 years.

The simple pleasures in life brought great joy to Carla. She enjoyed having all her nephews and nieces with her in her home where she helped raise them.

Carla always welcomed family and friends who were in need of help. She was an avid rock collector and had many rock gardens around her home.

Carla enjoyed watching game shows, fishing, camping, and was talented at beadwork. She enjoyed having friends and family over for cookouts, holidays and family functions.

Carla is survived by her son, Jerry; lifetime companion, Vincent Ramirez; parents, Mary and Wallace Hanley; sister, Gail Hanley; brother, Mike Hanley; and aunts, uncles, many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Carla is preceded in death by her sister, Kim Hanley; and grandparents, Sistah and Max Hanley Sr., and Ruth Clayson-Wilson and Harry Wilson.

A Celebration of Life for Carla will be held at her residence.

Kody Lane Peterson

REHOBOTH, N.M. — Funeral services for Kody Lane Peterson, 36, of Prewitt, New Mexico, will be held Friday, July 2, at 10:30 a.m., at the Rehoboth Christian Reformed Church in Rehoboth, New Mexico, with Brother Don James officiating. Burial will follow at the Sunset Memorial Park in Gallup.

Kody was born Sept. 25, 1984, in Gallup, into the Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan), born for Tsenabahiłnii (Sleep Rock People Clan). He passed away June 25, 2021, in Phoenix.

Kody graduated from Oakdale High School in California and Southern Nevada Heavy Equipment School in Las Vegas. He worked for various heavy equipment companies.

Kody was a member of USTRC and various rodeo associations. He enjoyed horse training and participating in team roping and tie-down roping events.

Kody is survived by his son, Brody Peterson of Vacaville, California; daughter, Taylor Peterson of Vacaville; parents, Flora and Ken Peterson of Prewitt; brother, Kyle B. Peterson of Prewitt; and sisters, Darnell Sitaiai of Laveen, Arizona, and Melanie Francis of Kirtland, New Mexico.

Kody is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Sarah B. and Archie Nez; paternal grandmother, Nina M. Largo; and paternal grandfather, Phillip Peterson.

Pallbearers will be Jerold Camarillo, Truman House, Leland Nez, Kaiden Sitaiai, Loren Begay, and Reuben Sitaiai.

Honorary pallbearers will be Herman House Jr., Erich Rogers, Brooks Dahozy, Juan Martinez, Bennie Yazzie Sr., Tommy Lansing, Kyle Peterson, and Cody Lansing.

A reception will take place at the Gallup Community Center, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Maxine Tsosie

SANDERS, Ariz. — Funeral services for Maxine Tsosie, 73, of Sanders, Arizona, will be held Friday, July 2, at 10 a.m., at the Sanders Valley Baptist Church — Annex Building with Pastor Kevin McCarthy officiating. Burial will follow at the McCarrell Memorial Cemetery.

Maxine was born March 25, 1948, in Fort Defiance, into the Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). She passed away June 22, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Maxine received a master’s degree in education and retired as a teacher at McKinley County Schools District. She loved to travel and be outdoors with family.

Maxine is survived by her son, Daryl Joe Sr.; daughter, Beulah Joe McCarthy; sisters, Mary Jane Sanderson and Mary Ann Edsitty; and eight grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Kevin Uriah McCarthy, Timothy Arthur, Daryl Joe Jr., Mason Joe, and Tristen Joe.

Honorary pallbearers will be Daryl Joe Sr., Nathaniel Tso, Terrance Tsosie, Christopher Tsosie, and Patrick Hernasy.

A reception will take place at the Sanders Valley Baptist Church — Annex Building, following services.

Silver Creek Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Wilbur T. Jymm

TOHATCHI, N.M. — Graveside service for Wilbur T. Jymm, 83, of Sheep Springs, New Mexico, will be held today, July 1, at 10 a.m., in Tohatchi, New Mexico, with Father Dale officiating.

Wilbur was born Jan. 2, 1938, in Coyote Canyon, New Mexico, into the ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan), born for Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). He passed away June 3, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Wilbur attended St. Michaels High School and Loyola Mary Mount University in Los Angeles. He worked for the Navajo Nation and McKinley County Election Bureau.

Wilbur is survived by his son, Tyrone Jymm; and brother, Nelson M. Jymm.

Wilbur is preceded in death by his wife, Louise Jymm; and son, Daniel D. Jymm III.

Pallbearers will be Nelson M. Jymm, Daniel T. Jymm IV, K. Lorenzo Jymm, Julius Todacheene, Elias Benally, and J. Vernon Jim.

Honorary pallbearers will be Tyrone Jymm, Robert Peshlakai, Neil Jymm, and Cale Jymm.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Herman James Chee

GALLUP — Graveside service for Herman James Chee, 55, of Pretty Rock, New Mexico, was held June 30 at the Gallup City Cemetery with Milton Davidson officiating.

Herman was born March 7, 1966, in Gallup, into the Tsi’naajinii (Black Streak Wood People Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). He passed away June 22, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Herman received an associate’s degree in welding in 1996 and worked as a welder instructor at the University of New Mexico-Gallup. He also worked for Myers Containers for three years in Portland, Oregon, UPS ground manager in Portland, F&S Trailers, journeyman welder, and owned/operated Father & Son Welding.

Herman was a USTRC team roper for Gallup High School and rancher who enjoyed beadwork and riding horses with his granddaughter Ayayat.

Herman is survived by his wife, Lena Chee; son, Jake Chee; daughter, Kasarah Chee; brothers, Roy Jim Chee and Ernest Davis Chee; sister, Jacqueline Gean Chee; maternal grandparents, Mary and John Lowe; and granddaughter, Ayayat.

Herman is preceded in death by his daughter, Cory Rose Chee; and parents, Irene Rose and Billy Chee.

Pallbearers were Delvin Kinsel, Daniel Billy, Wayne Franklin, Matthew Smiley, Rick Tolino, and Martin Valdez.

Honorary pallbearers were Ernest Chee, Shawn Ray Jim, Oren Jim, Earl Jim, Harold Davidson, Roy Chee, and Kasarah Chee.

Donations can be sent via Zelle to Lena Chee.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Pvt. Marriah Alice Shirley Pouncy

CHINLE — Funeral services for Pvt. Marriah Alice Shirley Pouncy, 20, of Chinle, are pending.

Pvt. Pouncy was born Sept. 3, 2000, in Chinle, into the Naasht’ézhí dine’é Tábąąhá (Zuni/Water’s Edge Clan), born for Naakai Łzhíní (African American). She passed away June 21, 2021, in Fort Bliss, Texas.

Pvt. Pouncy graduated from Chinle High School in 2018 and enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 2018. She completed basic combat training and was a human resources specialist assigned to the Headquarter Company of the 1st Armored Division Combat Aviation Brigade at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.

Pvt. Pouncy was stationed at Fort Bliss in December 2019 to the time of her death. She served a short tour assignment to Camp Red Cloud and Camp Casey in South Korea.

Pvt. Pouncy enjoyed reading her bible, skateboarding, playing games on her Xbox, and spending time with her family.

Pvt. Pouncy is survived by her parents, Anita Mae and James Pouncy; brothers, James Begay Jr. of Mesa, Arizona, Kristopher Pouncy, Aslan Pouncy, and Ashriel Pouncy of Chinle; sisters, Robin Howard of Parker, Arizona, Joanita (Ben Weible) Begay of Louisville, Kentucky, and Nizhoni Pouncy; nieces, Shalisa and Johannah Mitchell of Louisville; and nephew, Dushaun Weible of Louisville.

Pvt. Pouncy is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Alice and Billie Jones; and paternal grandparents, Mariah and Jerry Pouncy.

Pallbearers will be the National Guard.

Honorary pallbearers will be Kristopher Pouncy, Aslan Pouncy and Ashriel Pouncy.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for July 1, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Doris Mae Begay White (May 29, 1926 — June 29, 2021)

Doris Mae Begay White

PARKER, Ariz. — Funeral services for Doris Mae Begay White, 95, of Parker, Arizona, will be held Saturday, July 10, at 8 a.m., at the Parker Dignity Funeral Home in Parker, followed by burial at Parker Cemetery. Viewing will take place Friday, July 9, at Parker Dignity Funeral Home from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Doris was born May 29, 1926. She was a member of the Colorado River Indian Tribes. Her maternal Navajo clan is ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People) and her paternal clan is Bįįh bitoodnii (Deer Spring). She went to be with the Great Spirit on June 29, 2021, while in residence at The Polidori House in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

Doris attended Tuba City Boarding School, graduating in 1944 as valedictorian. While in school, she played on the girls’ basketball team. After graduation, she worked at the Navajo Ordinance Depot in Bellemont, Arizona, during World War II before becoming employed as a telephone operator for the government at Tuba City Boarding School.

In April 1950, Doris moved from the Navajo Nation to become a member of the Colorado River Indian Tribes under the Indian Relocation Act. She assisted her husband, George White, in farming land. Together, they grew alfalfa, barley, wheat, cotton, and melons. She was a 4-H leader for the first Haymakers and Homemakers 4-H Club from 1955 until 1975.

Doris was also a girls’ basketball coach for such teams as the Poston Tribettes, Poston Cotton Queens and others from 1964 until 1974.

Doris obtained her associate degree from Arizona Western College in 1975 and was a Colorado River Indian Tribes Head Start teacher from 1967 until she retired in 1994. She would later volunteer as a cook for St. Vincent de Paul in Parker, from 2002 until 2006.

In recent years, Doris enjoyed her daily lunchtime visit to the Parker Senior Center with her son, George. An avid sports fan, her favorite teams were the Phoenix Suns and Arizona Diamondbacks. Her entire family will miss enjoying her award-winning Navajo fry bread.

Doris is survived by her sons, George White Jr. of Parker, and Bobby (Barbara) White of Gallup; daughters, Karen (Gene) White Sellers, Jacqueline (Robert) Reaves and Lynnetta White, all of Parker; and five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Doris is preceded in death by her daughter, D. Candi Williams; mother, Frances Begay; and father, Julius Begay.

Rita Moreno Cornfield

CORTEZ, Colo. — Memorial services for Rita Moreno Cornfield, 78, a longtime resident of Cortez, Colorado, will be held Saturday, July 10, at 2 p.m., at the Cortez Seventh Day Adventist Church (540 W. 4th St.) in Cortez. Burial will follow at the Cortez Cemetery (2727-2741 E. Empire St.).

Rita was born June 3, 1943, in Shiprock, to Willie and Eula M. Ahkeah, into the Nihoobáanii (Gray Streaked-Ends Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). Her nalí is Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover); cheii is Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People). She passed away peacefully at home on June 29, 2021.

Rita was a Native American from the Navajo Tribe. She spent most of her early childhood in Rico, Colorado. She had two sisters and seven brothers.

Rita graduated from Aztec High School and decided to continue her education in El Segundo, California, where she attended business school. She met her late husband and the love of her life, Tony John Cornfield, while attending school and living in California. They married and will have celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on July 10, 2021.

Rita was a mother to two children, Tammy Ann Cornfield and Timothy Julias Yazzie. She was a proud grandmother to four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was also an aunt and parent figure to many nieces and nephews. She cherished her friendship and enjoyed spending time with her family members.

Rita was a long-term member of the Cortez Seventh-Day Adventist Church and faithfully attended every Sabbath. She loved greeting people before the services, participating in worship, Bible studies, and ministering to others. She was a prayer warrior and had a strong belief in God. She knew where she was going and encouraged others along the same path, including her husband, Tony.

Before his passing, Tony and Rita were inseparable. Rita led Tony to Christ and Tony joined Rita in fellowship, serving the Lord until their death.

Rita enjoyed her time as mom and full-time homemaker. While her children were attending school, she worked as a teacher assistant for the Rico School District. After her children became adults, she went back to work as cook prep for Aramark at Mesa Verde National Park for many years until she retired.

Rita loved to read, cook, bake, and listen to country music. According to her family, she made the best Navajo tortillas. She was also the family historian and kept records of family lineage dating back about a century.

Rita was a kind and generous woman with many friendships within her community. She gave without expecting anything in return and even when she did not have much to give she gave more, because in her words “God will provide.”

Rita was a true matriarch and left a lasting legacy of values, traditions, and unconditional love. She left an impression on everyone she met and her imprint will forever be on their hearts.

Rita is survived by her daughter, Tammy Ann Cornfield of Cortez; son, Timothy Julius Yazzie (spouse Dantzelle) of Cortez; sister, Arlene Lee of Shiprock; brothers, Arnold Ahkeah of Grand Junction, Colorado, Sammy Ahkeah of Shiprock, and Roger Ahkeah (wife Pat) of Shiprock; and four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Rita is preceded in death by her father, Willie Ahkeah; mother, Eula M. Ahkeah; husband, Tony John Cornfield; siblings, Wallace Ahkeah, Donald Ahkeah, Curtis Ahkeah Scott, David Ahkeah Scott, and MaryAnn Yazzie; and nephews, Michael Billy, Lionel Lee and Lanier Maxwell Ahkeah.

A dinner reception will take place at the Cortez Seventh Day Adventist Church, following services.

Flowers may be sent to Cortez Seventh Day Adventist Church and the family will collect donations.

Information: Miriam Barbour, 714- 612-5147.

Pvt. Marriah Alice Shirley Pouncy

CHINLE — Funeral services for Pvt. Marriah Alice Shirley Pouncy, 20, of Chinle, will be held Friday, July 9, at 10 a.m., at the Chinle Potter’s House. Burial will follow at the family plot at Red Reservoir.

Pvt. Pouncy was born in Chinle, into Naakai Łzhíní (African American). Her nalí is Naakai Łzhíní; cheii is Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). She passed away June 21, 2021, at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas.

Pallbearers will be the U.S. Army.

Honorary pallbearers will be Kristopher Pouncy, Aslan Pouncy, Ashriel Pouncy, James P. Jones, Mathias Tracy, and Johnathan Begay.

A drive-thru reception will take place at Elsie Jones’ residence (three miles north of Bashas’), following services.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Tommy Montoya

FORT DEFIANCE — The Montoya family, of Fort Defiance, announces a memorial service for Tommy Montoya on Saturday, July 10, at 11 a.m., at the Navajo Bible Church in Fort Defiance, followed by a reception.

Tommy was born Feb. 5, 1941, in Torreon, New Mexico, into the Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan), born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). He passed away Feb. 5, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Tommy was a Vietnam veteran who served his country in the Vietnam War from 1963 to 1965. He also served the Lord Jesus Christ as a Navajo pastor for 25 years on the Navajo Nation Reservation.

Wilfred Noble Sr.

GALLUP — Graveside service for Wilfred Noble Sr., 55, of Manuelito, New Mexico, was held July 7 at Sunset Memorial Park in Gallup, with Tommy John officiating.

Wilfred was born July 17, 1965, in Gallup, into the Naakai dine’é (Mexican Clan), born for Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan). He passed away June 28, 2021, in Manuelito.

Wilfred attended Gallup High School and was self-employed. He enjoyed playing the guitar, carpentry, working on vehicles, and watching football.

Wilfred is survived by his sons, Wilfred Noble Jr., Breten Noble and Wayne Koshiway; daughter, Danica Noble; parents, Elizabeth and Berlyn Noble; sisters, Darlene Noble and Esther McIntire; and grandson, Joshua Noble.

Wilfred is preceded in death by his grandmother, Mary Tsosie.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Chris Carl Platero

GALLUP — Funeral services for Chris Carl Platero, 52, of Bluewater Lake, New Mexico, will be held today, July 8, at 10 a.m., at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup. Burial will follow in Gallup.

Chris was born Feb. 25, 1969, in Gallup, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Deeshchii’nii (Start of the Red Streak People Clan). He passed away June 29, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Chris received a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of New Mexico. He was employed at the University of New Mexico-Gallup Branch as a math professor.

Chris loved making jewelry, cooking, camping, traveling, listening to music, attending concerts, and spending time with family.

Chris is survived by his daughters, Robyn Edsitty and Mallori Edsitty; brother, Philnaldo Platero; and sisters, Larrine Platero, Luana Platero, Desbah Padilla, Ramona Roach, Linda Platero, JoAnn Platero, Patsy Platero, Cheryl Platero, and Michelle Platero.

Chris is preceded in death by his daughter, Andrea Platero; and parents, Louise and Ramon Platero.

Pallbearers will be Jeremiah Foster, Marvin Platero, Michael Platero, Dylan McLaughlin, Norman Roach, and Keith Slinky.

Honorary pallbearers will be Melvin Platero, Merwyn Padilla and Tyler Charley.

A reception will take place at the Platero residence in Bluewater Lake, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Tiam Kee Morgan

RABBIT BRUSH, N.M. — Graveside service for Tiam Kee Morgan, 31, of Albuquerque, will be held Monday, July 12, at 10 a.m., at the family gravesite in Rabbit Brush, New Mexico, with Lourie Wells officiating.

Tiam was born Oct. 17, 1989, in Tuba City, into the Naasht’ézhí dine’é (Zuni Clan). He passed away July 3, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Tiam completed high school up to his sophomore year and was employed as a chef at various restaurants in Albuquerque.

Tiam is survived by his daughters, Madelyn Morgan and Kaylee Morgan; brothers, Lydell Chischilly and Kendall Chischilly; and sisters, Muriel Chischilly and Deidra Morgan.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for July 8, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Julie H. Price

TUNNEL SPRINGS, Ariz. — Funeral service for Julie Harvey Price, of Tunnel Springs, Arizona, will be held today, July 15, at 10 a.m., at the Tunnel Springs Fellowship Center with Florence Barker officiating.

Julie was born Aug. 11, 1925, in Rabbit Brush, New Mexico, into the Hashtł’ishnii (Mud Clan), born for ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan). She passed away July 11, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Julie is survived by her sister, Nellie H. Laughlin; nephews, Nelson Price and Julian Laughlin Sr.; niece, Julie Ann Clarke; and grandson, Wyatt Price.

Julie is preceded in death by Willis M. Price and Willard (Tex) Price.

Imogene Ruth Mitchell

RABBIT BRUSH, N.M. — Graveside service for Imogene Ruth Mitchell, 67, of Fort Defiance, was held July 14 at the family plot in Rabbit Brush, New Mexico, with Paula Henson officiating.

Imogene was born Nov. 5, 1953, in Fort Defiance, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Tsi’naajinii (Black Streak Wood People Clan). She passed away July 7, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Imogene attended Window Rock High School and was a Navajo Nation employee. She enjoyed cooking, sewing and writing.

Imogene is survived by her sons, Eric Mitchell and Dennis Mitchell Jr.; daughters, Michelle Lynn Mitchell and Melanie Mitchell; brothers, Walter Tulley and Anslem Tulley; sisters, Charlotte Tulley and Yolanda Jean Melvin; grandparents, Molly and Teddy Dawes; and eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Imogene is preceded in death by her husband, Dennis Mitchell Sr.; brother, Calvin Tulley; and parents, Eleanor Dawes and Keith Tulley.

Pallbearers were Eric Mitchell, Dennis Mitchell Jr., Dustin Melvin, Daryn Melvin, Leonard Lansing, Loren Begay, and Butler Seeley.

Summit Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Melvin Johnson

PAGE, Ariz. — Funeral services for Melvin Johnson, 54, will be held Friday, July 16, at 11 a.m., at the LDS Church (313 S. Lake Powell Blvd.) in Page, Arizona. Viewing will take place one hour prior to service at 10 a.m.

Melvin was born Feb. 12, 1967, in Page, to Max and Rose (Saganitso) Johnson. The beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, cousin, and friend got called home to be with the Lord unexpectedly on July 3, 2021.

Melvin grew up in Coppermine, Arizona, just south of Page, where he attended school. He graduated from Tuba City High School, where he excelled in running track and receiving many awards and medals.

After graduating high school, Melvin went to Salt Lake City, where he met Velma “Vel”. They got married and raised four children together as they kept traveling farther north and finally resided in Bountiful, Utah, where they continued to raise their family.

Melvin’s love of adventure was fulfilled as he traveled the country for work where he ended up in Phoenix, when he passed.

Melvin was always the one who could turn a silent room into a burst of laughter with just a few seconds. Anyone that met him has a funny story to tell about him. He was never without a Utes baseball cap or his cowboy hat on his head.

Mel was a lover of fishing, rock and roll, country music, rodeos, Utah Utes football, and his Kansas City Chiefs. He was completely overjoyed when they finally won the Super Bowl.

Mel was such a proud father and an even prouder cheíí (grandpa in Navajo). He would call his grandkids his little Chief’s fans. They all loved him immensely.

We will always remember Mel’s hilarious sense of humor, his smile, his laugher, and his ability to be able to fix absolutely anything. He was our handyman, sports coach, storyteller, teacher, adventure seeking, bull riding, and lord loving man.

Mel wouldn’t want anyone to be sad at his passing. When you think of him, celebrate all the good memories and laughter he would bring. He’s not gone, he’s gone fishing.

Mel is survived by his wife, Vel; children, Rafael (Vernell), Deann (Aaron), Melvena, and Mika (Beau); mother, Rose; siblings, Cecil, Calvin and Doreen; and 10 grandchildren (who called him Cheíí) and countless other family members and friends.

Mosdell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Ben Thomas Jr.

GALLUP — Funeral services for Ben Thomas Jr., 66, of Tohatchi, New Mexico, will be held Friday, July 16, at 10 a.m., at the Rollie Mortuary Chapel in Gallup, with Ramone Yazzie officiating. A private burial will follow.

Ben was born Nov. 19, 1954, in Fort Defiance, into the ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan), born for Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). He passed away July 3, 2021, in Farmington.

Ben attended Tohatchi Boarding School, earning a diploma in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and attending the University of New Mexico. He worked for Navajo Nation Behavioral Health as a counselor, auto mechanic, and Sun West Bank as an accountant.

Ben was an avid reader and enjoyed fixing things such as vehicles, motorcycles, and radios.

Ben is survived by his brothers, Tony Tom and Conrad Thomas; and sisters, Kathy Standing Rock, Edith Whitecrow, Sandra Curley, Pearl Morgan, Charlotte Thomas, Jackie Thomas, and Alberta Bennett.

Ben is preceded in death by his mother, Mary Manuelito; father, Ben Thomas Sr.; sisters, Mary Ann Chewiwi, Julia Billiman and Brenda Thomas; and brothers, Bennie Thomas, Dave Thomas, Ernie Manuelito, Jerry Manuelito, and Elmer Manuelito.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Dean Paul James

LUKACHUKAI, Ariz. — Funeral services for Dean Paul James, 51, of Lukachukai, Arizona, will be held Friday, July 16, at 10 a.m., at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Lukachukai. Burial will follow at the Lukachukai cemetery.

Dean was born July 22, 1969, in Gallup, into the Dziłtł’ahnii (Mountain Cove Clan), born for Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover Clan). He passed away July 10, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Dean enjoyed traveling, concerts, hiking, camping, building bikes, teaching, and watching movies.

Dean is survived by his daughters, Natasha James and Gabriella James; brother, Patrick James of Round Rock, Arizona; and sister, Paula James of Round Rock.

Dean is preceded in death by his parents, Betty James and Paul Begay; maternal grandparents, Marietta and Sam James; and paternal grandparents, Helen and Walter Begay.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Rashad Shylow John

GALLUP — Funeral services for Rashad Shylow John, 38, of Twin Lakes, New Mexico, were held July 14 at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup. Interment followed at the family cemetery in Twin Lakes.

Rashad was born May 25, 1983, in Gallup, into the ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). He passed away July 2, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Rashad attended Tohatchi High School and worked for Wal-Mart, pipefitter in Redlands, California, Cheii Transport, and was a self-employed artist.

Rashad enjoyed traveling, listening to music, watching YouTube videos, painting, and astronomy.

Rashad is survived by his sons, Gavin, Daimien and Tristin John; brothers, Olsen and Ryan John; and sisters, Rosalie Redgun, Julianna, Clarapita, and Natasha John.

Rashad is preceded in death by his parents, Lucy and Jimmy John; sisters, Francine and Vivian; brothers, Arliss, Edward and Jaymi John; and grandparents, Lupita and Edward King, and Clara and Peter John.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for July 15, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Louise Willie Yazzie

GALLUP — Funeral services for Louise Willie Yazzie, 82, of Old Coalmine, New Mexico, will be held Friday, July 23, at 1:30 p.m., at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup, with Pastor Don Phoebus officiating. Burial will follow in Gallup.

Louise was born Dec. 5, 1938, in Old Coalmine, into the ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). She passed away July 17, 2021, in Old Coalmine.

Louise attended Good Shepherd Mission up to the 4th grade and was a housewife. She enjoyed sewing, doing word searches and loved watching her great-grandchildren play sports.

Louise is survived by her sons, Norman Lee and Alvin Lee; daughters, Mildred Blackgoat, Kathleen Lee and Sharon Lee; and eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Louise is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Yazzie.

Pallbearers will be Marcus Blackgoat, Chase Blackgoat, Romen Perez, Adrian Sanchez, Forrest Collins Jr., and Joseph Moose.

Honorary pallbearers will be Virgil Plummer and Nathaniel James.

A reception will take place at the Old Coalmine residence, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Stanley C. Robbins

DEER SPRING, Ariz. — Graveside service for Stanley Curtis Robbins, 67, of Fort Defiance, will be held today, July 22, at 10 a.m., at the burial site in Deer Spring, Arizona, with Father Blaine officiating.

Stanley was born Sept. 26, 1953, in Fort Defiance, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan). He passed away July 18, 2021, in Mesa, Arizona.

Stanley graduated from Window Rock High School in 1972 where he competed in the Arizona State Track Meet. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War and attended Diné College.

Stanley was founder of the Prescott Powwow Organization at the VA in Prescott, Arizona. He enjoyed sweatlodges and casinos.

Stanley is survived by his companion, Veronica Begay; daughters, Janell M. Robbins, Monica Rose Robbins and Marlena C. Robbins; brothers, Bennie B. Robbins Jr. and Leonard Robbins; sisters, Victoria Birch, Christine Hale, Charlotte Damon, Virgie Jones, and Myrtle Hickson; and two grandchildren.

Stanley is preceded in death by his parents, Mary Ann and Bennie B. Robbins Sr.; sister, Marjorie Frame; and brothers, Franklin Robbins and Joey Robbins.

Pallbearers will be Dahveed Telles, Aaron Joe, Daniel Damon III, Wendell Birch, Janell Robbins, Monica Robbins, and Robert Rice.

Honorary pallbearers will be Leonard Robbins, Bennie B. Robbins Jr., Daniel Damon Jr., and friends and relatives.

A reception will take place in Deer Spring, following service.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Timothy F. Bahe

FORT DEFIANCE — Graveside service for Timothy F. Bahe, 35, of Chinle, will be held Friday, July 23, at 10 a.m., at the Fort Defiance community cemetery in Fort Defiance, with Pastor Steven Joe officiating.

Timothy was born Aug. 16, 1985, in Chinle. He passed away July 15, 2021, in St. Michaels, Arizona.

Timothy was employed at the Tse Bonito Car Wash as a maintenance and propane operator. He enjoyed skateboarding, fishing, video games, and his family.

Timothy is survived by his wife, JoNell Bahe; sons, Richard Morgan and Erin Bahe; daughter, Alex Bahe; parents, Belinda and Bernard Bahe; brothers, Benjamin Bahe and Micah Bahe; sisters, Jessica Bahe, Amy Bahe, Natasha Bahe, Naomi Bahe, and Veronica Bahe; and grandparent, Frances Nelson.

Timothy is preceded in death by Virginia and Benjamin Bahe, and Rudy Yazzie Jr.

Pallbearers will be Haroldton Anthony, Galntry Skyking, Benjamin Bahe, Derek Brown, Jon-Davis Morgan, and Dewayne Tsinnajinnie.

Honorary pallbearers will be Richard Morgan, Erin Bahe, Micah Bahe, and Elijah Morgan.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Trevor Matthew Stupey

PRESCOTT, Ariz. — Trevor Matthew Stupey, born on Jan. 20, 1988, in Phoenix, passed away July 9, 2021, in a terrible auto accident.

Trevor was raised by two dedicated educators in Kayenta, graduating from Monument Valley High School in 2006 after representing the Mustangs on the all-state baseball team. He went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in microbiology from Northern Arizona University and his doctorate of pharmacy from the University of New Mexico.

Trevor was dedicated to his family and his career as a pharmacist in Prescott, Arizona.

Trevor is survived by his parents, Nicholas and Rebecca Stupey; sister, Trinity Davenport; niece, June Davenport; wife, Jennifer Stupey, who is seven months pregnant with their third daughter; and daughters, McKenna and Kyle.

Trevor joins his older brother, Christopher Stupey, who passed away in 1993.

Condolences can be sent to Ruffner-Wakelin Funeral Home, 303 S. Cortez St., Prescott AZ 86303.

Verna M. Spencer

GALLUP — Funeral services for Verna M. Spencer, 75, of Coyote Canyon, New Mexico, will be held Tuesday, July 27, at 10 a.m., at Cope Memorial in Gallup, with Pastor Aaron Jim officiating. Burial will follow at the Sunset Memorial Park in Gallup.

Verna was born Nov. 24, 1945, in Tohatchi, New Mexico, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). She passed away July 19, 2021, in Coyote Canyon.

Verna attended two years at a business correspondence school and retired from Navajo Housing Authority and the Navajo Nation. She enjoyed traveling, watching NFL and NBA, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Verna is survived by her husband, Johnny Spencer; sons, Vernon Laughlin of Albuquerque, and James Lee Jr. of Gallup; daughter, Candice Spencer of Coyote Canyon; sister, Lucy Owens of Coyote Canyon; and 18 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Verna is preceded in death by her daughter, Thomasita Laughlin-Elsayed; sons, Adrian Laughlin and Travis Laughlin; parents, Florence and Sam Morgan; and two sisters and six brothers.

Pallbearers will be Loatfy Elsayed, Juwan Elsayed, Jalen Espino, Sheldon Laughlin, Travis Laughlin Jr., and Derrick Begay.

Honorary pallbearers will be Johnny Spencer, Vernon Laughlin, James Lee Jr., Sam White, Chavez John, Bruce Morgan, Alvin Chavez, Victor Hicks, and Elvis Morgan.

A reception will take place at the Gallup Community Center, following services.

Cope Memorial is in charge of arrangements.

Larry A. Begay

SHEEP SPRINGS, N.M. — Funeral services for Larry A. Begay, 59, of Sheep Springs, New Mexico, was held July 21 at the Sheep Springs Pentecostal Church. Interment followed in Sheep Springs.

Larry was born Feb. 17, 1962, in Gallup, into the Kinłichíi’nii (Red House People Clan), born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). He passed away July 12, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Larry worked as a security guard, various construction jobs and did sandpaintings. He enjoyed going to the casino and playing bingo, and spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Larry is survived by his sons, Larris Begay, Larro Begay, Cavin Begay, and Larry Begay Jr.; daughters, Larissa Begay and Lorrissa Begay; father, Harry A. Begay; brothers, Lester Johnson Sr., Leonard Begay, Alvin Begay, and Robert Begay; sisters, Alvina Begay, Veronica Begay, Victoria Williams, Theresa Begay, and Michelle Foster; and nine grandchildren.

Larry is preceded in death by his mother, Mary R. Begay; wife, Della M. Begay; sister, Lupita Washburn; niece, Tasha Lewis; and nephew, Sheldon C. Begay.

Pallbearers were Larro Begay, Larris Begay, Cavin Begay, Treston Thorne, and Jackson Thomas.

Honorary pallbearers were Harry A. Begay, Lester Johnson, Leonard Begay, Alvin Begay, and Robert Begay.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for July 22, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Laramie McSparron Jarvi

PRESCOTT, Ariz. — Funeral services for Laramie McSparron Jarvi, 87, of Chinle, will be held Friday, Oct. 1, at 10 a.m., at The First Congregational Church in Prescott, Arizona, with Pastor Jay officiating. Burial will follow at the Middle Verde Cemetery in Camp Verde, Arizona.

Laramie was born June 6, 1934, in Gallup. She passed away July 17, 2021, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Laramie was not part of a clan, but because her parents were so integrated into the community between 1919 and 1956, we feel that people will want to know our mother has passed who knew her parents and sister.

Laramie attended the University of Arizona earning a bachelor’s degree in education in 1956. In the early 1980s, she earned a dual master’s degree from Northern Arizona University in special education and school administration.

Laramie was employed as a preschool and kindergarten teacher until just after her 70th birthday.

Laramie’s primary interest was her five children. She was a 4-H leader, den mother, and school volunteer. She also spent many hours teaching Sunday School at the First Congregational Church.

Laramie is survived by her daughters, Katie Russell of California, and Amy (Weldon) Spangler of Minnesota; sons, Jim Cody (Lydia Williams) of California, David (Kathleen) Williams of Nevada, and Michael (Justine) Williams of Oregon; and eight grandchildren.

Laramie is preceded in death by her mother, Inja Constant McSparron (formerly of Thunderbird Ranch in Chinle); father, Leon Hugh (Cozy) McSparron; sister, Marion Vincenti (formerly of California); and husband, Charles E. Jarvi (formerly of Prescott).

A reception will take place at The First Congregational Church, following services.

Simple Cremations in Las Vegas, is in charge of arrangements.

Ken Yellowhair Sr.

TSE BONITO, N.M. — Funeral services for Ken Yellowhair Sr., 56, of Window Rock, were held July 26 at the Community Bible Church in Tse Bonito, New Mexico, with Rev. David Hilderman officiating. Interment followed at the Fort Defiance community cemetery.

Ken was born Jan. 20, 1965, in Fort Defiance, into the Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), born for Honágháahnii (One-walks-around Clan). He passed away July 20, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Ken graduated from Window Rock High School and attended Tulsa Welding School. He worked for TLC Plumbing and Utility, and was a welder and Jack-of-all-trades.

Ken enjoyed spending time with family, listening to classic rock and country music, and watching UFC, NFL and NBA. His favorite teams were the Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Suns.

Ken is survived by his wife, Lynette Yellowhair; sons, Victor Yellowhair, Kevin Yellowhair, Ken Yellowhair Jr., and Nicholas Yellowhair; daughters, Lynelle Yellowhair and Kaitlynn Yellowhair; father, Skeet Yellowhair Sr.; brothers, Boyd Skeet Yellowhair Jr. and Edward Yellowhair; sister, Leanne Yellowhair; and two grandchildren.

Ken is preceded in death by Shirley N. Yellowhair, Stephen Yellowhair (Sugar) and Brittany Yellowhair.

Pallbearers were Victor Yellowhair, Kevin Yellowhair, Ken Yellowhair Jr., Nicholas Yellowhair, Sheridan Yellowhair, and Kyl Boye Yellowhair.

Honorary pallbearers were “Boyd” Skeet Yellowhair Jr., “Wez” Ramondo Rico, Jason Fanene, William Archie, and Edward Yellowhair.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Willie Payne Montoya

OJO ENCINO, N.M. — Funeral services for Willie P. Montoya, 86, of Torreon, New Mexico, were held July 18 at the Eagle Springs Baptist Church in Ojo Encino, New Mexico. Interment followed at the Montoya family plot in Torreon.

Willie was born Nov. 28, 1938, in Torreon, to Polito and June Trujillo Montoya. He was of the Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan), born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). He passed away peacefully on July 11, 2021, in Albuquerque, with family members at his side.

Willie attended school in Chilocco, Oklahoma, in the late 1950s where he met Dorothy Reed Montoya of Klagetoh, Arizona. He retired after working 25 years for the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Crownpoint, Klagetoh, Toyei, Arizona, and Dilkon, Arizona.

Willie received certificates from the Albuquerque School of Theology in Baptist history and polity, missions, evangelism and church planting; and a diploma in Christian ministry from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. He pastored the Eagle Springs Baptist Church in Ojo Encino, retiring several years ago.

Some of Willie’s hobbies were watching the Kansas City Chiefs, old western movies, making leather crafts for his siblings, and reading his bible.

Willie is survived by his sons, B. Alex Montoya of Klagetoh, Danny (Vivian) of Anchorage, Alaska, and Daniel of Torreon; daughters, Wylma June Montoya of Phoenix, P. June Montoya of Livingston, Texas, and Deborah Montoya Boyd (Garrison) of Glendale, Arizona; brother, Robert Q. Montoya (Shirley) of Shiprock; sister, Katie Walters (David) of Torreon; and 19 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Willie is preceded in death by his parents, Polito and June Trujillo Montoya; siblings, Joe Montoya Sr., Margeret Walters, Pauline Tsinijinnie, Kimsey Montoya Sr., Tommy Montoya, Santiago Ortiz Montoya, Richard Montoya Sr., and Isabelle Folsomito; and grandson, Levi Montoya.

Pallbearers were Lance Cpl. Martine Begay, Isaiah Montoya, Pfc. Zachary Montoya, Staff Sgt. Wayne A Begay, Sgt. Laman Arviso, and Garrison J. Boyd.

Honorary pallbearers were William Begay, Pvt. Chadwick Arviso, B. Alex Montoya, Santiago A. Montoya; and veterans, Nolan Montoya, Wyatt Arviso, Dan Montoya, Daniel Montoya, and Isaias Arturo Carranza.

Brenda Etsitty

GALLUP — Funeral services for Brenda Etsitty, 55, of Twin Lakes, New Mexico, will be held Saturday, July 31, at 10 a.m., at the Rollie Mortuary Palm Chapel in Gallup, with Darrell Yazzie officiating. Burial will follow in Gallup.

Brenda was born July 11, 1966, in Fort Defiance, into the Haltsooí (Meadow People Clan), born for Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan). She passed away July 24, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Brenda attended Tohatchi High School and was employed with Thunderbird Jewelry as a silversmith. She loved traveling with her family to Silverton, Colorado, playing softball with various teams, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Brenda is survived by her daughter, Regina Yazzie; brother, Allison Etsitty; and two grandchildren.

Brenda is preceded in death by her mother, Norma Etsitty; and father, Edison Etsitty.

A drive-thru reception will take place at the Grace Navajo Baptist Church, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Dave Halona

GALLUP — Funeral services for Dave Halona, 50, of Tohatchi, New Mexico, were held July 28 at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Gallup, with Father Dale officiating. Interment followed at the Tohatchi community cemetery.

Dave was born Oct. 12, 1970, in Gallup, into the Tsénjíkiní (Cliff Dwellers People Clan), born for Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover Clan). He passed away July 24, 2021, in Gallup.

Dave attended Tohatchi High School and was self-employed. He enjoyed playing bingo, shooting guns, playing pool, and looked forward to completing projects with his brother.

Dave is survived by his wife, Eugenia Allison; daughter, Erica Halona; father, David Halona; brother, Tyler Halona; and sisters, Jolene Halona and Jaclyn Halona.

Dave is preceded in death by his mother, Carol Halona; grandfather, Wallace Halona; and maternal grandparents, Grace and Jimmie Thompson.

Pallbearers were Steve Thomas, Kendrick Reed, Tyler Halona, Erron Tabaha, Shane Halona, and Trevor Vivian.

Honorary pallbearers were Erwin Allison, Marvin Allison, Shawn Mitchell, Ron Halona, David Halona, Dewayne Hanley, Dave Allison, and Lorenzo Delores.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Stanley Curtis Robbins (Sept. 26, 1953 — July 18, 2021)

Stanley Curtis Robbins

DEER SPRINGS, Ariz. — Graveside service for Stanley Curtis Robbins, 67, of Fort Defiance, was held July 22 in Deer Springs, Arizona, with Father Blaine officiating.

Stanley was born Sept. 26, 1953, in Fort Defiance, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan). His cheii is Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People); nalí is Honágháahnii (One-walks-around). He passed away July 18, 2021, in Mesa, Arizona.

Stanley graduated from Window Rock High School in 1972. He was a cross-country runner and obtained many medals, as well as taking the Arizona State Track Champion title.

Stanley attended Diné College and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He was employed as a purchasing agent at various locations within the Navajo Tribe and worked for the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System in Prescott, Arizona, where he worked in the prosthetics department helping fellow veterans. He retired two years ago after over 20 years of service.

Stanley enjoyed sweatlodges with friends, going to casinos and spending time with his family. He also co-founded the Prescott Powwow alongside his co-worker and friend, Robert Rice.

Stanley is survived by his companion, Veronica Begay; daughters, Janell M. Robbins, Monica Rose Robbins and Marlena C. Robbins; brothers, Bennie B. Robbins Jr. and Leonard Robbins; sisters, Victoria Birch, Marjorie Frame, Christine Hale, and Charlotte S. Damon; and two grandsons.

Stanley is preceded in death by his parents, Mary Ann and Bennie B. Robbins Sr.; brothers, Joey Robbins and Franklin Robbins; sisters, Virginia Jones and Myrtle Hickson; maternal grandparents, Onebah and John E. Watchman; paternal grandparents, Nellie and Benino Robbins; and niece, nephews and grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Dahveed Telles, Aaron Joe, Robert Rice, Eldon Jones, Daniel Damon III, and Treston Damon.

Honorary pallbearers were Leonard Robbins, Bennie B. Robbins Jr. and Daniel Damon Jr.

Summit Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Lydia Lynn James

HOUCK, Ariz. — Funeral services for Lydia Lynn James, 32, of Houck, Arizona, will be held Monday, Aug. 2, at 10 a.m., at the Good News Mission Church in Houck, with Eugene Chee officiating. Burial will follow at the Houck cemetery.

Lydia was born Aug. 3, 1988, in Gallup, into the Honágháahnii (One-walks-around Clan), born for Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). She passed away July 24, 2021, in Phoenix.

Lydia attended Valley High School and Apollo College for medical administrative assistant.

Lydia is survived by her mother, Linda James; brother, Brandon James; sister, Donna James; and grandmother, Vernie Nez.

Lydia is preceded in death by her father, Ernest James; and brother, Lance James.

Pallbearers will be Shane Ashley, Chris Cly, Garrison George, Michael Murphy, Derrick Nez, and Jeremia Nez.

A reception will take place at the Cly residence (rural community, No. 38) in Sanders, Arizona.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Nelbert Lee

JEDDITO, Ariz. — Graveside service for Nelbert Lee, 40, of Jeddito, Arizona, was held July 28 at the Jeddito community cemetery.

Nelbert was born July 1, 1981, in Gallup, into the Lók’aa’ dine’é (Reed People Clan), born for Tó baazhní’ázhí (Two Who Came To the Water Clan). He passed away July 1, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Nelbert enjoyed bull riding, riding horses and string art.

Nelbert is survived by his sons, Netavin Lee and Neldon Lee; daughter, Natalia Lee; brothers, Norbert Lee, Nathaniel Begay, Francisco John, and Orlando John; and nalí lady, Margaret Peterson.

Nelbert is preceded in death by his mother, Carol A. Begay; father, Ricky Lee; sister, Felicia Lee; and masaní, Mary Pete-Begay.

Pallbearers were Norbert Lee, Nathaniel Begay, Francisco John, Avelor Nachin, Evan Nachin, and Xavier Nachin.

Honorary pallbearers were Cory Jim, Caleb Jim and David Brown.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for July 29, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Katie C. Henio

CERRO ALTO, N.M. — Funeral services for Katie C. Henio, 97, of Pinehill, New Mexico, will be held today, Aug. 5, at 9 a.m., at the Cerro Alto Family Park in Cero Alto, New Mexico, with Pastor Freddie Lee officiating. Burial will follow in Cerro Alto.

Katie was born April 24, 1927, in Cerro Alto, into the Chish Haltsooí (Meadow People Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). She passed away July 31, 2021, in Pinehill.

Katie had no formal education in grades K-12, but she did attend Navajo Community College for four summers studying Navajo language and culture. She worked for Ramah Navajo School Board Inc. as a Navajo language/cultural teacher, adult education teacher, and New Mexico Folklore cultural consultant at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.

Katie lived a Christian life, learning to read and write Navajo from reading her Navajo Bible. She was a livestock owner, herbalist, weaver, farmer, educator, and traveler.

Katie is survived by her sons, Daniel Henio, Samuel Henio, Nathaniel Henio, and Jonathan Henio; stepson, Cecil Henio; daughters, Martha Garcia, Sarah Henio-Adeky, Marian Gonnie, Rebecca Henio, and Priscilla Peshlakai; stepdaughter, Esther Raphealito, and 55 grandchildren, 96 great-grandchildren, 16 great-great-grandchildren, and four great-great-great-grandchildren.

Katie is preceded in death by her parents, Yich’iniibaa’ Pino and Patricio Coho; daughter, Mary Thompson; son, David Manel Henio; brothers, Chavez P. Coho and Keetso Coho; and sisters, Mable Coho, Elizabeth Martine and Zonnie Chatto.

Pallbearers will be Ryan Garcia, Daniel Henio Jr., Robert Adeky Jr., Shawn Henio, Patrick Gonnie, Bahe Henio, Cash Peshlakai, Clayton Henio, and Dorian Henio.

Honorary pallbearers will be Cecil Henio, Daniel Henio, Samuel Henio, Nathaniel Henio, Jonathan Henio, Michael Henio, Travor Thompson, Dwayne Henio, and Mario Gonnie.

A reception will take place at the Cerro Alto Family Park, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Thomas Lynch Jr.

FORT DEFIANCE — Graveside service for Thomas Lynch Jr., 98, were held Aug. 4 at the Fort Defiance Veterans Cemetery.

Thomas was born March 26, 1923, in Wide Ruins, Arizona, into the ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan), born for Kinłichíi’nii (Red House People Clan). He passed away July 27, 2021.

Thomas lived in Window Rock, with his family at the time of his passing. He attended Sanders High School before being drafted into the army in 1943. As a member of the 42nd Infantry Division he fought in the European Theater. He was captured in the Battle of the Bulge and endured harsh conditions of starvation at a prisoner of war camp in Germany before his liberation in April 1945.

Thomas was honorably discharged at the rank of corporal with four medals: Good Conduct Medal, World War II Victory Medal, American Campaign Medal, and European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two Bronze Stars.

In addition, Thomas was awarded the Navajo Nation Veterans Medal in recognition of his “service in defense of our land and our people.” Following his military service, he returned home to Sanders, and completed his senior year of high school.

As a revered storyteller, Thomas shared many memories of his war experiences, as well as his upbringing in the rangelands of the Puerco Valley, where his grandmother, Mary Yellowhorse, owned more than 3,000 head of sheep. He recalls her generosity in butchering a sheep every day to keep the family fed. When relatives would visit, she would send them off with a leg of mutton wrapped in a flour sack. He, too, was incredibly generous with his stories, time, labor and resources.

Living most of his adult life in Window Rock, Thomas became well-known in the community for his employment with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, where he was honored for his 35 years of service, his membership on the Window Rock School District Board, and his service as post commander for his local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 6789 to honor and support other Native veterans. He was one of the original members of the VFW post when it was established in Window Rock in 1945.

In this and many other ways, Thomas’ life was lived in service of those around him: his family, community and comrades. This spirit of service extended well beyond his retirement where he continued to participate and organize Navajo veteran affairs, as well as getting certified to be a real estate appraisal consultant to help families resolve complex land issues. Because of these far-reaching activities, he was known and loved by many across the region.

Beyond these achievements, Thomas was a devoted husband of 69 years to Helen Lynch, father to two daughters, Veronica Montoya and Karen Lynch, and grandfather to Teresa Montoya.

Thomas is survived by his siblings, John Lynch, Maryeona Watman and Grace Monarco.

Thomas joins his siblings, Robert (Bobby) Lynch, Edward (Ed) Lynch, Freddy Lynch, Patrick (Pat) Lynch, Steve Lynch, and William (Bill) Lynch in the afterlife.

Raleigh H. Mann

GALLUP — Graveside service for Raleigh H. Mann, 59, of Lupton, Arizona, was held July 31 at the Gallup City Cemetery.

Raleigh was born Sept. 25, 1961, in Gallup, into the Honágháahnii (One-walks-around Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan). He passed away July 26, 2021, in Flagstaff.

Raleigh was mentally challenged. He attended St. Michaels Association for Special Education as a student.

Raleigh participated in the Special Olympics every year earning gold medals for running and swimming. He loved to listen to his favorite band, the Beatles.

Raleigh is survived by his legal guardians, Laura Lee Yazzie and Jackie Yazzie Jr.

Raleigh is preceded in death by his mother, Mary Alice Goodluck Mann; father, Joe Mann; and brothers, Alfred Martinez and Phillip Goodluck.

Pallbearers were Jonas Yazzie, Chris Yazzie, Jonathan Yazzie, Kern Collymore, Nate Burton, and Tedrow Nez.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Brant Karlets Francisco

GALLUP — Graveside service for Brant Karlets Francisco, 44, of Tohatchi, New Mexico, will be held Friday, Aug. 6, at 2 p.m., at the Rollie Mortuary Palm Chapel in Gallup, with Rev. Myles Lytle officiating.

Brant was born July 5, 1977, in Fort Defiance. He passed away Aug. 1, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Brant attended Tohatchi High School and was employed as a rancher. He was a rodeo athlete in the tie-down, team-roping and bull-dogging events. He also enjoyed drawing and was a wood and metal artist.

Brant is survived by his son, Brayden Jhett Francisco; parents, Shirley Dennison and Arvid Francisco; brothers, Arvis Francisco and Wacey Francisco; sister, Rhonda Francisco; and grandmother, Ethel Francisco.

Brant is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Annie and Eugene Dennison; and paternal grandfather, Joe Francisco.

Pallbearers will be Wacey Francisco, Lance Yazzie, Christopher Bitsilly, Nathan Bitsoie Jr., Waylon Damon Jr., and Blain Becenti.

Honorary pallbearers will be Arvid Francisco, Arvis Francisco, Wally Dennison, Wayne Dennison, Bobby Holyan Jr., and Casey Francisco.

A drive-thru reception will take place at the Tohatchi Pentecostal Church, following service.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Tyrell T. Charley

GALLUP — Funeral services for Tyrell Tyson Charley, 27, of Springstead, New Mexico, will be held Friday, Aug. 6, at 10 a.m., at the Rollie Mortuary Chapel in Gallup, with James Flores officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial in Gallup.

Tyrell was born March 10, 1994, in Gallup, into the Tł’ááshchí’í (Red Bottom People Clan), born for Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan). He passed away July 25, 2021, in Springstead.

Tyrell attended Miyamura High School and was employed at King Dragon in Gallup. He enjoyed drawing, writing, traveling, and loved the Raiders football team.

Tyrell is survived by his mother, Maxine Sam of Gallup; father, Terry Charley of Twin Lakes, New Mexico; brother, Tyrone Charley of Gallup; sisters, Terrinda Charley of Albuquerque, Seraphina Charley of Gallup, and Hannah Charley of Springstead; and grandmother, Irene Charley of St. Michaels, Arizona.

Tyrell is preceded in death by his grandparents, Roseann and Peter Sam; and grandfather, Tom Charley.

Pallbearers will be Darral Begay, Glenbert Charley, Roderick Charley, Joseph Begay, Ryan Hosteen, Thurman Willie, and Cody Tsosie.

Honorary pallbearers will be Terry Charley and Tyrone Charley.

A reception will take place in Springstead (Uphill Road, south on Lime Ridge Road, four miles north of Church Rock, New Mexico).

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Mike K. Morgan

KINLICHEE, Ariz. — Graveside service for Mike Kee Morgan, 41, of Woodsprings, Arizona, will be held today, Aug. 5, at 10 a.m., at the Kinlichee cemetery in Kinlichee, Arizona, with Pastor Owen Chevarillo officiating.

Mike was born Sept. 13, 1979, in Fort Defiance, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). He passed away July 29, 2021, in Phoenix.

Mike is survived by his fiancé, Calandra Baker; son, Trevian Morgan; daughters, Mikail Morgan, Chantell Morgan and Kesha Anagal; brothers, Carl Morgan and Shawn Morgan; and sister, Opal Sam.

Mike is preceded in death by his mother, Ruby Morgan; son, Tristan Anagal; and grandmother, Dade Morgan.

A reception will take place at the late Ruby Morgan’s residence (11.5 miles north of Ganado, Arizona, on Route 27).

Silver Creek Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for Aug. 5, 2013 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Leanne M. Litson

BLACKROCK, Ariz. — Graveside service for Leanne Marlo Litson, 54, of Mesa, Arizona, was held Aug. 9 at the Litson family plot in Blackrock, Arizona, with Fannie Bahe officiating.

Leanne was born June 8, 1967, in Fort Defiance, into the Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), born for Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). She passed away July 30, 2021, in Mesa.

Leanne attended Monument Valley High School and Mesa Community College. She studied microbiology at Arizona State University and computer programming at the University of Advancing Technology.

Leanne was employed as an IT technician at ASU from 1993 to 1998 and at Labcorp as a laboratory technician/shift supervisor for the microbiology department.

Leanne enjoyed online gaming, reading, playing the piano and flute, concerts, traveling, Star Wars, and Bigfoot lore.

Leanne is survived by her sisters, Wendi Litson, Dawnel Litson and Tenneile Litson.

Leanne is preceded in death by her parents, Doris and Lee Litson Sr.; and Janel Litson.

Pallbearers were Kyle Litson, Adrian Hudson, Lorin Todakonzie, Lawrence Hickson, Nolan Hoskie, and Kurt Bahe.

Honorary pallbearers were Stanley Litson Sr., James Litson, Leo Hoskie, Lester Hudson, Layne Litson, and Matthew Todakonzie.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Lamardo Tsinajinnie

TSE BONITO, N.M. — Funeral services for Lamardo Tsinajinnie, 51, of Klagetoh, Arizona, were held Aug. 11 at Silver Creek Mortuary in Tse Bonito, New Mexico. Interment followed at the Klagetoh cemetery.

Lamardo was born Dec. 22, 1969, in Fort Defiance, into the Tsénjíkiní (Honey Combed Rock People Clan). He passed away Aug. 3, 2021, at Woods Canyon Lake in Payson, Arizona.

Lamardo attended Ganado High School and was a Navy veteran. He was employed at Ace Hardware and enjoyed fishing, basketball, softball, and movies.

Lamardo is survived by his wife, Guifen Cai; and daughters, Leah Tsinajinnie and Irene Tsinajinnie.

Lamardo is preceded in death by his mother, Mary Anne Tso-Tsinajinnie; grandmother, Irene Bunnie-Tsinajinnie; and grandfather, Dick Tsinajinnie Sr.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Sadie W. Rafael

TORREON, N.M. — Graveside service for Sadie W. Rafael, 54, of Torreon, New Mexico, will be held Friday, Aug. 13, at 10 a.m., at the Torreon Navajo Mission with Lydell Rafael officiating.

Sadie was born Jan. 18, 1967, in Torreon, to Millie O. Cayaditto and Kee J. Wilson, into the Kinłichíi’nii (Red House People Clan), born for Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan). She passed away Aug. 5, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Sadie graduated from Cuba High School and attended Diné College in Crownpoint. She worked in housekeeping at the Sandia Resort and Casino, Santa Ana Casino, and at Tamaya Resort.

Sadie enjoyed cooking, cleaning, card games, and spending time with her husband and grandchildren.

Sadie is survived by her husband, Kenneth Raphael; sons, Craig Rafael and Kendall Rafael; daughters, Karennina and Karanishia Rafael; mother, Millie O. Cayaditto; brothers, Jon Bodie, Lester Wilson and Emerson Cayaditto; sisters, Barbara Toledo, Ruby Wilson, Verna Begay, Corrina Roe, and Brenda Cayaditto; and five grandchildren.

Sadie is preceded in death by her son, Kendrick Rafael; father, Kee J. Wilson; brother, Christopher Wilson; and sisters, Sheila Castillo, Reva Cayaditto and Nellie Cayaditto.

Pallbearers will be Jon Bodie, Lester Wilson, Dewayne Rafael, Victor Castillo, Greg Roe, and Carlito Thomas.

A curbside reception will take place at Torreon Navajo Mission, following service.

Cope Memorial is in charge of arrangements.

Eleanor Dennison Largo

TOHATCHI, N.M. — Funeral services for Eleanor Dennison Largo, 68, of Naschitti, New Mexico, will be held Friday, Aug. 13, at 10 a.m., at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Tohatchi, New Mexico, with Father Dale officiating. Burial will follow in Naschitti.

Eleanor was born July 20, 1953, in Naschitti, into the Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan), born for ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan). She passed away Aug. 8, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

Eleanor attended Fort Sill Indian School in Oklahoma from 1969 to 1971. She was employed as a silversmith at Running Bear Trading for 20 years and at Wholesale Indian Jewelry for 10 years.

Eleanor enjoyed crossword puzzles, attending and cheering for the Gallup Bengals basketball team and the Dallas Cowboys.

Eleanor is survived by her daughters, Lenora “Kiki” Jodie, Krystal Louis (PoohLynn) and Kristianna Manuelito (Dinky); brother, David Dennison Sr.; sisters, Emma Tony and Evonne Rogers; and four grandchildren.

Eleanor is preceded in death by her mother, Josephine Nez Dennison; father, George Dennison; and brother, Andrew Dennison.

Pallbearers will be Freddie Rogers Jr., Freeland Rogers, Fernando Tony, and family members.

Honorary pallbearers will be David Dennison Sr. and Amos Tony.

A drive-thru reception will take place at the Naschitti Chapter House, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Peggy A. Gail

KLAGETOH, Ariz. — Graveside service for Peggy Ann Gail, 64, of Klagetoh, Arizona, will be held Friday, Aug. 13, at 12 p.m., in Klagetoh.

Peggy was born Jan. 29, 1957, in Ganado, Arizona, into the Honágháahnii (One-walks-around Clan), born for Tsénjíkiní (Honey Combed Rock People Clan). She passed away Aug. 9, 2021, in Fort Defiance.

The post Obituaries for Aug. 12, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Aaron E. Logg

KLAGETOH, Ariz. — Graveside service for Aaron Evan Logg, 56, of Klagetoh, Arizona, was held Aug. 18 at the Klagetoh community cemetery.

Aaron was born April 8, 1965, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for Mą’ii deeshgiizhinii (Coyote Pass Clan). He passed away Aug. 12, 2021, in Flagstaff.

Aaron graduated from Ganado High School and attended Navajo Community College and Mesa Community College.

Aaron was employed as a carpenter and enjoyed riding horses, bull riding, weight lifting, and mentoring young bull riders.

Aaron is survived by his sons, Tyson Logg, Tyler Logg and Derek Etsitty; daughter, Samantha Logg; brother, Melvin Kellog; sisters, Arlene Logg and Ronalda Logg; and six grandchildren.

Aaron is preceded in death by his mother, Rosalind Peshlakai Logg; father, Ahkii Sage Logg; sisters, Patricia Logg and Roselinda Logg; brother, Jay Logg; and niece, Rochelle Decheeny.

Pallbearers were Tyson Logg, Marco Long, Jay James, Michael Shorty, Gabriel Skeets, and Harvey Tso.

Honorary pallbearers were Derek Etsitty, Tyler Logg, Isaiah Yazzie, Melvin Logg, Kyle Decheeny, Ernie Roan, Marty Logg, Dougin Decheeny, and Calgery Mason.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Darrell Spencer

GALLUP — Funeral services for Darrell Spencer, 45, of Red Rock, New Mexico, will be held Friday, Aug. 20, at 10 a.m., at the Twin Buttes Church of the Nazarene in Gallup, with Daniel Smiley officiating. Burial will follow at the family plot in Red Rock.

Darrell was born Oct. 7, 1975, in Gallup, into the Haltsooí (Meadow People Clan), born for Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). He passed away Aug. 12, 2021, in Red Rock.

Darrell attended Sun Valley Nazarene, Wingate High School and Gallup High School. He was employed as a buffer at Running Bear Wholesale.

Darrell loved basketball and fast-pitch softball. He enjoyed fishing, watching movies and spending time with family.

Darrell is survived by his son, Darrin Spencer; daughter, Alannah Spencer; father, Larry Spencer; brothers, Clyde Spencer and Vernon Spencer; sisters, Alicia Mendoza, Jennifer Spencer and Corrina Spencer; paternal grandmother, Alice Largo; and two grandchildren.

Darrell is preceded in death by his mother, Esther Spencer; brother, Orlando Spencer; maternal grandparents, Alice and Joe Bowie; and paternal grandfather, John Kee Spencer.

Pallbearers will be Darrin Spencer, Quincy Spencer, Jose Mendoza, Luis Mendoza, Clyde Spencer, and Vernon Spencer.

Honorary pallbearers will be Ethan Manson, Joseph Mendoza, Ryan Mendoza, Isaiah Rosetta, Michael White, and Roland Spencer.

A reception will take place at the Gallup Community Center, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Egbert R. Etsitty

GALLUP — Funeral services for Egbert Rufus Etsitty, 46, of Mexican Springs, New Mexico, were held Aug. 17 at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup, with Mark Thomas officiating. Interment followed at the Lone Pine Cemetery in Mexican Springs.

Egbert was born March 23, 1975, in Gallup, into the Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), born for Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover Clan). He passed away March 10, 2021, in Gallup.

Egbert is survived by his mother, Emma Etsitty; brothers, Adrian Etsitty, Christopher Dixon and Virgil Dixon; and sisters, Yvonne Batchelor, Sharon Pete, Emily Dennis, and Colleen Lomaintewa.

Pallbearers were David Yazzie, Joshua Dennis, Gilbert Shorty Jr., Kendall Mitchell, and Owen Benally.

Honorary pallbearers were Kale Yazzie, Nicholas Lomaintewa and Elijah Ashley.

Rollie Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Ray S. Tachine

WHIPPOORWILL, Ariz. — Graveside service for Ray Shawn Tachine, 25, of Lukachukai, Arizona, was held Aug. 18 at the family plot in Whippoorwill, Arizona.

Ray was born Aug. 7, 1996, in Chinle, into the Tó’aheedlíinii (Water Flow Together Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan).

Ray graduated from SDA Indian School and was employed at McDonald’s for three years. He enjoyed playing Dungeons and Dragons.

Ray is survived by his parents, Desiree Denny and Virgil Tachine; brothers, Michael X. Tachine, Charles A. Tachine and Ashkii L. Tachine; sister, Kyree M. Tachine; maternal grandparents, Avery and Patricia Denny; and paternal grandparents, Stella B. and Charlie Tsosie.

Pallbearers were Ryan Denny, Shawn Claw, Tomas Valdez, Michael X. Tachine, Charles A. Tachine, and Ashkii L. Tachine.

Honorary pallbearers were Avery Denny, Everett Denny, Donavan Denny, Emery Denny, Howard Leonard Jr., and William Bahe.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

The post Obituaries for Aug. 19, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Mary L. Chickway (March 25, 1944 — Aug. 16, 2021)

Mary L. Chickway

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Funeral services for Mary Lee Chickway, 77, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, will be held Friday, Aug. 27, at 1 p.m., at The Springs Funeral Service (3115 East Platte Avenue), in Colorado Springs.

Burial will follow at the Evergreen Cemetery (1005 Hancock Expressway) in Colorado Springs. Visitation will take place today, Aug. 26, at The Springs Funeral Service from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Mary was born March 25, 1944, in Monument Valley, Utah. She passed away Aug. 16, 2021, peacefully at home with her family by her side.

Mary was raised in Douglas Mesa, graduating from Intermountain High School in Brigham City, Utah. She moved to Colorado Springs in 1962.

Mary worked as a waitress, and then bartender at Fort Carson for many years. She retired from Goodwill Industries in 2020.

Mary was a beautiful, amazing, strong, caring, loving mother, sister, grandmother, and daughter. She enjoyed puzzles, cooking, making fry bread for family and friends, bingo, watching the Denver Broncos, and most of all, being with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mary is survived by her children, William, Clifford, Elvira, Frances, Karen Martin (David Mattson), and Marian Padilla; and siblings, Jonah J. Jones, Lillie V. Dan, Lula Herder, Nellie Harrison, Gloria Begaye, Dara Whatcott, Larry, Robert, and Shirley Jones.

Mary also took care of Kevin (Jessica) Foster when he was a child and called him her son. She also leaves her aunt, uncle, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, 13 grandchildren, and 37 great-grandchildren.

Mary is preceded in death by her father, Drake Jones; mother, Betty Patsy Blackwater; grandson, Dominic Tony Martin; and great-granddaughter, Emma Marie Martin.

Ray A. Chinchillas

GALLUP — Graveside service for Ray Allen Chinchillas, 34, of Prewitt, New Mexico, will be held Friday, Aug. 27, at 10 a.m., at Sunset Memorial Park in Gallup, with Pastor Ned Longhair officiating.

Ray was born May 30, 1987, in Phoenix, into the Tó baazhní’ázhí (Two Who Came To the Water Clan), born for Naakai dine’é (Mexican Clan). He passed away Aug. 8, 2021, in Phoenix.

Ray graduated high school from Stratford Career Institute in 2006 and was employed as a driller for Stewart Brothers Drilling in Milan, New Mexico.

Ray was a good man who loved to spend time with his three children and being among family and friends. He was a Raiders fan who loved helping others.

Ray is survived by his wife, Candace J. Chinchillas of Grants, New Mexico; sons, Raylaundo R. Chinchillas and Ray Allen Chinchillas II, both of Grants; daughter, Candray E. Chinchillas of Grants; father, Javier Chinchillas of Phoenix; brothers, Davis Gaddy of Prewitt, Eden Chinchillas of Phoenix, and Alex Chinchillas of Phoenix; sisters, Chelsea Begay of Prewitt, Wendy Chinchillas of Phoenix, and Marixsa Chinchillas of Phoenix; grandmother, Rose Gaddy of Prewitt; and grandparents, Rosenda and Petronito Chinchillas of El Zapote de baymena, Choix, Sinaloa.

Ray is preceded in death by his mother, Ellen Chinchillas; uncle, Ernest Gaddy; aunt, Elaine Jones; and grandfather, Harold Gaddy.

Pallbearers will be Danny Gaddy, Davis Gaddy, Elliott Loretto, Raylaundo Chinchillas, Jarvis Russette, Mackenzie Marion, and Marcus Platero.

Honorary pallbearers will be Ray Allen Chinchillas II, Javier Chinchillas, Larry Gaddy, Alex Chinchillas, Eden Chinchillas, and Aldo Chinchillas.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Jacqueline C. Platero

CHINLE — Funeral service for Jacqueline Caroline Platero, 57, of Many Farms, Arizona, was held Aug. 24 at the Potter’s House in Chinle, with Pastor Artie Aragon officiating.

Jacqueline was born June 28, 1964, in Albuquerque, into the Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover Clan), born for Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan). She passed away Aug. 13, 2021, in Albuquerque.

Jacqueline graduated from Many Farms High School in May 1986 and continued her education at Diné College for elementary education. She worked as a court clerk for the Navajo Nation Judicial Branch for 16 years and was recently employed by the Navajo Nation Food Distribution Program delivering food for families in need.

Jacqueline is survived by her sons, Cale Olson and Ty Olson; daughters, Heather Olson, Jennifer Olson, Jayleen Olson, and Kristen Olson; mother, Sadie Tso; sister, Rachelle Wagner; and four grandchildren.

Jacqueline is preceded in death by her father, Donald Tso Sr.; and brother, Donald Tso Jr.

Pallbearers were Cale Olson, Ty Olson, Notah Yazzie, Roshawnald Freeland, Bryan Wagner, and Rodney Begay.

Honorary pallbearer was Jonathan Olson.

Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

Dr. Konstance L. Shirley

LUKACHUKAI, Ariz. — Graveside service for Dr. Konstance Lee Shirley, 48, of Gallup, will be held in Lukachukai, Arizona.

Dr. Shirley was born Jan. 28, 1973, in Fort Defiance. She passed away Aug. 19, 2021, in Gilbert, Arizona.

Dr. Shirley graduated from St. Michael Indian School in 1991 and earned a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness at Arizona State University in 1996. She then attended the Crownpoint Institute of Technology earning a veterinary assistant certificate in 1997.

Dr. Shirley continued her education at New Mexico State University, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, earning a master’s degree in animal science in 1999 and graduating from the Doctor of Philosophy Interdisciplinary Program at NMSU in 2005. She then became a Postdoctoral Fellow at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado, from 2005 to 2007.

Dr. Shirley is survived by her mother, Rita Ann Lee; sister, Buffy Shirley; and maternal grandfather, Albert P. Lee.

Dr. Shirley is preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Shirley; nephew, Cooper Johnny; maternal grandmother, Eva N. Lee; and paternal grandparents, Chee A. and Mary A. Begay.

Honorary pallbearers will be Ernie Begay, Rolando Begay and Guy Murphy.

Summit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Benjamin Lee Jr.

FARMINGTON — Benjamin Lee Jr., 71, of Upper Fruitland, New Mexico, passed away July 30, 2021, in Farmington. He was born Oct. 5, 1949, in Carson, New Mexico, into the Mą’ii deeshgiizhinii (Coyote Pass Clan), born for Bit’ahnii (Under His Cover Clan). His maternal grandfather is Tł’ááshchí’í (Red Bottom People) and paternal grandfather is Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House).

Benjamin worked for Fairchild Semiconductor and BHP Billiton in Fruitland and Waterflow, New Mexico, for 40 years. He worked as an electrician, mechanic and dragline operator until he retired in 2012.

Following retirement, Benjamin enjoyed a paper route with the Daily Times.

Benjamin enjoyed tinkering on cars, going to car shows, and watching movies, the NBA League Pass, and his son, daughter, and grandsons play various sports.

Benjamin is survived by his wife, Shonnie Pioche-Lee; son, Shannon “Yongzer” Lee; daughter, Yiwikai Lee-Thomas; sisters, Arlene Romero, Pearl Cowboy and Darlene Vallo; brothers, Leroy Lee, Albert Lee and Roger Jack; and three grandsons.

Benjamin is preceded in death by his parents, Pauline Polly Lee and Ben Lee Sr.; brothers, Juleson Lee, Daniel Lee and Roy Lee; maternal grandparents, Evelyn and Roy Platero; and paternal grandparents, Mary Ann and Harry Lee.

Services were in the care of Farmington Funeral Home. Interment took place at St. Luke’s Cemetery in Huerfano, New Mexico.

The post Obituaries for August 26, 2021 appeared first on Navajo Times.

Alfreda R. Copi

GALLUP — Funeral services for Alfreda Rose Copi, 55, of Red Rock, New Mexico, will be held today, Sept. 2, at 10 a.m., at Rollie Mortuary in Gallup, with Sister Terry officiating. Burial will follow in Navajo, New Mexico.

Alfreda was born July 29, 1966, in Gallup, into the ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan), born for Tsi’naajinii (Black Streak Wood People Clan). She passed away Aug. 26, 2021, in Red Rock.

Alfreda became a registered nurse after graduating from the University of New Mexico-Gallup. She worked for Gallup Indian Medical Center, St. Michaels Association for Special Education, and Nahata’Dziil Health Center.

Alfreda enjoyed crafting, DIY projects, scrapbooking, making photo albums, beading, and powwows.

Alfreda is survived by her husband, Herman Copi; son, Jerimiah Copi; daughter, Alissa Copi; and brothers, Alfred John Jr. and Curtis John.

Alfreda is preceded in death by her mother, Nelly Rose John; father, Alfred Kee John; and grandparents, Mary and Slim Boyd.

Pallbearers will be Donaldvan Bitah, JT Willie, Jason Herbert, Dillon Schrock-Gregory, Lance Billie, and Sam Willie.

Honorary pallbearers will be Herman Copi, Jerimiah Copi, Micheal Thomas, Darrell Thomas, Charles Josley, and Alfred John Jr.

A reception will take place at the Gallup Community Center, following services.

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Dennison P. Harvey

BOULDER, Colo. — Memorial service for Dennison Paul Harvey will be held Saturday, Sept. 25, at 2 p.m. (MDT) at the Boulder LDS Church (4655 Table Mesa Drive).

Dennison was born March 1, 1973, in Fort Defiance, into the Kinłichíi’nii (Red House People Clan), born for Hashtł’ishnii (Mud Clan). His maternal clan is Naakai dine’é (Mexican) and his paternal clan is Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People).

He passed away peacefully on a beautiful Colorado day on Aug. 28, 2021, in Longmont, Colorado. He dreamed about meeting Lady Hades crossing over the rainbow bridge.

Dennison graduated from Window Rock High School and endured hardships in his life. He overcame his struggles with aspiring strength and a positive outlook.

Dennison found happiness in the community of Boulder by working in landscaping, fishing, and exploring the outdoors. He loved listening to rock and Native American music. He was an active member of the LDS Church.

Dennison is survived by his parents, Dennis and Rosemary Harvey; stepbrother, Phil Begay; sisters, Raine Harvey-Cooper and Doreen Jelene Harvey; brothers, Calvin Harvey and Darren Harvey; and nieces and nephews.

Dennison is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Jim and Bertha Harvey; maternal grandparents, Calvin and Thelma Manymules; stepbrother, Leonard Begay; and various uncles, aunts and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in memory of Dennison’s name to the Boulder Humane Society at boulderhumane.org.

Howe Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Victoria A. Bia-Bowman

FORT DEFIANCE — Graveside service for Victoria Ann Bia-Bowman, 76, of Tohatchi, New Mexico, will be held Friday, Sept. 3, at 10 a.m., at the Fort Defiance community cemetery with Rev. Leon Sampson officiating.

Victoria was born Nov. 9, 1944, in Fort Defiance, into the Táchii’nii (Red Running Into the Water People Clan), born for Tótsohnii (Big Water Clan). She passed away Aug. 29, 2021, in Tohatchi.

Victoria is survived by her sons, Victor Bia Williams, Shawn S. Bia Sr., and Christopher Lee Bia; daughter, Sophina Renee Bia; brother, Gabriel Bia; sisters, Theresa H. Begaye and Christine Hatch; and 14 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Victoria is preceded in death by her parents, Mary H. Bia and William Bia; sisters, Wilma Lilly, Gail Tsosie and Grace M. Bia; and brothers, Michael H. Bia and Clifton Bia.

Pallbearers will be Allen Harragarra, Marcus Shirley, Danté Bennett, Elam Bia, Elias Leslie, and Gary R. Price.

Honorary pallbearers will be Gabriel Bia, Victor Williams, Shawn Bia Sr., Christopher Bia, Shawn Bia Jr., and Carl J. Bia.

Silver Creek Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Dorothy M. Ashley

KIN DAH LICHII, Ariz. — Graveside service for Dorothy Marie Ashley, 67, of Cross Canyon, Arizona, will be held Friday, Sept. 3, at 10 a.m., in Kin Dah Lichii, Arizona.

Dorothy was born Aug. 25, 1955, in Fort Defiance, into the Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), born for ‘Áshįįhí (Salt People Clan). She passed away Aug. 30, 2021, in Gallup.

Dorothy graduated from Ganado High School and was a silversmith. She enjoyed bowling, knitting and crocheting.

Dorothy is survived by her husband, James Dee Clark; son, Bobby Joe Clark; daughters, Lisa Clark and Catalina Clark; brothers, Edison Ashley and Herman Ashley; sister, Annita Ashley; and five grandchildren.

Dorothy is preceded in death by her parents, DeSales and Kathleen Ashley.

Pallbearers will be Bobby Clark, Kevin Ashley, Leighton Ashley, Dylan Moreno, Daulton Mitchell, and Ryan Mitchell.

Honorary pallbearers will be James Clark, Edison Ashley, Herman Ashley, Matthew Martin, and Gabriel Martin.

A reception will take place at the late Kathleen Ashley’s residence (west on County Road 264, south near mile marker 461).

Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

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