Ramon "Ray" Mercado

Ramon “Ray” Mercado 1962-2015, Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, most recently residing in Avondale, Ray Mercado died on Thursday, February 5, 2015. Ray loved sports growing up, played baseball and football, and his favorite team was the Arizona Cardinals. He married his high school sweetheart, Charlene, on February 9, 1980 and this past Monday would have been their 35th wedding anniversary. Ray was so proud of his 5 beautiful children – Nicole, Heather, Rachel, Greg, and Emily, and also his two adorable granddaughters – Lauren and Ella. He joined the Phoenix Fire Department as a young man, and faithfully served as a firefighter, working his way up to Captain, for over 27 years, earning the Medal of Heroism and the Medal of Valor along the way. He was a mentor and a friend to all. Ray’s life revolved around his family and community, and his legacy lives on in the lives of so many. There was no need too small or large that Ray wouldn’t offer help, comfort, and assistance. His love, humor, loyalty, and genuine gift for serving others, often at much sacrifice to himself, will be eternally remembered. He was a living example of loving God, embracing beauty, and living life to the fullest. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2015 at 10:30 AM at Christ’s Church of the Valley 7007 West Happy Valley Road, Peoria, AZ 85383 Arrangements under the direction of Valley of the Sun Mortuary & Cemetery, Chandler, AZ.