Samuel Chavez

Samuel “Sam” Chavez Jr of Goodyear, Arizona passed away June 28, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 76. He was born August 3, 1946 in El Paso, Texas to Samuel Chavez Sr and Luisa Chavez both of whom predeceased him. He was also preceded in death by his sister Patricia Urquidi.

Sam is survived by his wife of 27 years Camille (neé Palumbo) Chavez, daughter Linda R (Ruben) Chavez-Rojo, sisters Margie (Tony) Romero and Mary Lou (Joaquin) Gonzalez, and brothers Richard, Eddie (Grace), Joe (Cathy-deceased) and Willie Chavez. He is also survived by his grandson Angel Michael Chavez, two step-grandsons Mateo and Milo Rojo, many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Sam grew up in Socorro, Texas. After graduating high school, he joined the United States Air Force and served in Thailand and Guam during the Viet Nam War. During his time in the military, he graduated from college with a BS degree. After spending 20 years in the Air Force, Sam retired and began his second 20-year career at ADOT until 2011 when he retired.

Sam was an avid golfer and enjoyed watching it on television too.  He was always outdoors working in the yard and grew many beautiful plants.  He built birdhouses to give to his family and friends. He was a member of the Men’s Golf Club at Falcon Dunes Luke AFB and for many years he was a prior board member of the Boys and Girls Club of the East Valley.

Sam was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend.  He was full of energy and loved the bright and joyful things in life. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends.

On Thursday July 27th, 2023 there will be a 10:00 am Funeral Mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church 11001 N 40th St. Phoenix AZ 85028. Following Mass, he will be laid to rest at The National Memorial Cemetery 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85024 at 12:30 pm.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Phoenix Children’s Hospital.