Ruffner-Wakelin Prescott Chapel Funeral Home and Crematory Obituaries

About Ruffner-Wakelin Prescott Chapel Funeral Home and Crematory

Ruffner-Wakelin Prescott Chapel Funeral Home and Crematory is a trusted and compassionate funeral home serving the community of Prescott, Arizona. Located at 303 S. Cortez Street, Prescott, AZ, 86303, this esteemed funeral home has been providing exceptional funeral services to families in need for many years.

A Legacy of Excellence

Ruffner-Wakelin Prescott Chapel Funeral Home and Crematory has built a reputation for excellence in funeral care, earning the trust of families throughout the region. Their commitment to providing personalized and dignified services has made them a preferred choice for those seeking to honor their loved ones with a meaningful farewell.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Deborah Lynn Pendleton-Maurice - December 12, 1952 - May 04, 2024

Departed: 05/04/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Deborah Lynn Pendleton-Maurice.

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David R. Gaenz - October 13, 1939 - April 21, 2024

Departed: 04/21/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for David R. Gaenz.

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Joann Elizabeth Cook - July 08, 1931 - April 19, 2024

Departed: 04/19/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Joann Elizabeth Cook.

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Helen Ann Fleming - March 30, 1944 - April 17, 2024

Departed: 04/17/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: Helen Ann Fleming, born March 30, 1944, in Buffalo, New York, to John and Helen Mix of Salamanca, New York, passed away peacefully, April 17, 2024, at YRMC in Prescott, AZ.

Helen is survived by Frank, her husband, Nan, her sister, and Bud, her sweet fur Baby.

She is predeceased by her mom and dad, James (Jimmy) nephew, Jimmy the 3rd, great nephew, and her brother John. Helen Ann graduated from Redondo Union High School in Redondo Beach California. After graduation, she went to work at Home Bank in Redondo Beach as a Teller. She told me one time that he hoped nobody saw her counting on her fingers being a teller. She loved her job, and everyone loved her. After many years of hard work, she climbed the latter to be Vice President of the Bank. Later she worked at credit unions in downtown LA. Her and Frank bought a nice condo in San Pedro, CA. They loved sitting on the deck watching the ships. In 1999 our mom passed away. Helen moved to Prescott and went to work at a Credit Union in Prescott. She loves Prescott, when the first snow fell, she called me up so excited saying, “It’s snowing” She liked the snow, but not the shoveling! She loved to knit and make many beautiful things. She loved to read. She is a very beautiful lady, a very special lady. She will be greatly missed by family and friends forever!

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Cody Thomas Bunnell - January 04, 1994 - April 17, 2024

Departed: 04/17/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: > Cody Thomas Bunnell was born on January 4, 1994 and passed on April 17, 2024. He had been living for the past several years in Prescott and had built an incredible life for himself here. He had successfully completed his probation in 2022, found his soul mate, been sober for over a year and was employed as a welder. This spring brought so many wonderful things for him, a new son, a wife and big bold plans for the future. He recently completed the schematics for an amazing product that we hope to see successfully patented. He had plans to move to Spokane, start his own welding business and eventually purchase a home for his new family. He had a strong desire to travel and was excited about a trip to Japan and Korea in 2025 with his family. We will make sure that he makes that journey and every other travel destination that he talked about. >

> Cody is survived by his wife Amy, his son Raylan Michael and his daughter Penelope. His father and step-mother, Michael and Robyn Bunnell. His mother, Maryann Leach. His siblings, Kendal (and niece Melody) and Corbin. His step-siblings Gabby, Emma, Isabel and Evan. His paternal grandparents, Connie, Max and Reva Bunnell. His maternal grandparents, Mary, Clarence and Davina Leach. His paternal aunt Melissa, her partner Patrick and his maternal uncle Kenneth, his wife Nicole, maternal aunt Stephanie, her husband Kelly and many cousins. >

> Because of the private family viewing, we would like his friends and family that are unable to attend to know that we will keep Cody’s Facebook page open and active. His father and step mother will be traveling with Cody’s ashes and will be leaving them in special locations. Photos and GPS coordinates will be posted so that anyone wanting to remember Cody, can find these places. We hope that you take some time to sit, share a story, and remember how special Cody was.

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Tatjana Elmer - July 18, 1932 - April 16, 2024

Departed: 04/16/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Tatjana Elmer.

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Guy Frank Defrisco - January 11, 1929 - April 12, 2024

Departed: 04/12/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Guy Frank Defrisco.

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Jesse Henry Horton - February 23, 1924 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Jesse Henry Horton.

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Manus Spanier - June 06, 1929 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: Longtime Prescott resident and physician, Dr. Manus R. Spanier, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 10th, in the presence of family. He was 94.Dr. Spanier was born on June 6, 1929 in Brooklyn, New York to Dr. Harold B. and Grace (Rapier) Spanier. As a youth, he attended Massanutten Military Academy in Woodstock, Virginia and 50 years later was appointed to that school's Board of Trustees. He received his bachelor's degree from Albion College in Michigan and medical degree from Wake Forest University in North Carolina. He received his specialty training in Internal Medicine at New York Methodist and Bellevue Hospitals and Columbia University in New York City.He then served in the U.S. Army medical corps, stationed in Munich, Germany. Following military service, he moved to Tucson, Arizona and served on the staff of the Tucson V.A. Hospital. He moved with his family to Prescott in 1965. He was the first internist to settle in Prescott and practiced Internal Medicine and Cardiology here for the next 30 years. On the staff of Yavapai Regional Medical Center, he served as Chief of the Medical Department and as Chief of the Medical Staff. He was a developer of the hospital's CardioPulmonary laboratory, its Cardiac and Pulmonary rehab programs, and Preventive Medicine programs. He also served as Chairman of the Arizona State Board of Medical Examiners.Dr. Spanier, in later years, became an avid runner. He completed over 15,000 miles (enough to cross the United States five times) before finally quitting for health reasons at age 73.Following retirement, he continued to lead an active life. He ran marathons in both the Arctic and Antarctic, pursued post-graduate studies at Arizona State University and Dartmouth College, and played French horn in the Yavapai College Orchestra. He traveled to Greece each summer with study groups from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He wrote numerous essays on ancient Greek and Biblical history, including a definitive "History of Ancient Greek Vases".Dr. Spanier organized several charitable foundations, supporting numerous Arizona charities. He was especially gratified to be able to underwrite the new Spanier Family Library at Massanutten Military Academy, which had educated him so many years before.Dr. Spanier is preceded in death by his wife, Ann P. (Holmes) Spanier; and is survived by his sons, Jim Spanier and wife Doris of Castle Rock, Colorado and Mark Spanier and wife Mary of Lexington, Kentucky and his grandchildren, Ryan, Kevin, Adam, Amelia and Elli Spanier.The Spanier family is grateful for the love and companionship of his great friends, Bob and Kathy Kozak, Mary Manzer, Andy and Candace Tomlinson, Mark and Pam Womack, and many others.

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Jeannene Linda Shumate - August 19, 1944 - April 07, 2024

Departed: 04/07/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: Jeannene Linda Cowden Shumate passed peacefully from this life on April 7, 2024. She spent her final days surrounded by her family, and recently celebrated her 60th wedding anniversary.

Jeannene was born on August 19, 1944, in Lehi, UT to Henry Hope “Scotty” Cowden and Rosa Mae Whimpey Cowden. She was the youngest of three children, and the only girl. From an early age, she developed her creative talents especially in sewing. She attended College of Southern Utah , majoring in Home Economics. It was there that she met a fellow student leader at a club mixer and they fell in love. Jeannene married Jon Shumate on March 20, 1964, in Cedar City, UT. They welcomed their first child, Jeff in 1966. Following graduation, Jon got a job with the US Forest Service. The young family spent time at various assignments across New Mexico and Arizona, where they welcomed two more children, Russell and Janette. In 1980, the Forest Service brought them to Prescott, AZ where they had their youngest child, Melissa.

Jeannene was a loving and caring mother who was devoted to her family. Everywhere they lived, she worked hard to make a lovely home, planted a garden, and left her community better for her having lived there. She was active in her church and in her children’s schools, serving in many leadership positions. Jeannene developed her talent in sewing to the point that she started her own business as a professional seamstress. She had exceptional skill and was dedicated to her many clients. Health problems caused her to retire and she spent her later years quietly, but those who know her will remember her abiding love of home and family, her deep desire to make the world around her more beautiful, and her faithful attendance and dedication to her faith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A perfect day for Jeannene would be spent in her home with children and grandchildren gathered together telling stories and laughing. In her lifetime, she had many of these. Her quiet smile and fierce dedication to her husband and children will be missed by her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband, Jon; children, Jeff [Anne-Marie], Russ, Janette [Jeff], and Melissa [Patrick]; and grandchildren, Melanie, Jordan, Jackson, Samantha, Sierra, Jeffrey, Mackenzie, Ainslee, Ben, Bailey, Carter, Taylor, Brooklyn. Brayden, Conner, and Landon; and great-grandchild, Nathan.

Funeral services are scheduled for April 27, 2024, at 11 am at the Prescott Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1101 Sandretto Drive in Prescott. Many thanks to Pleasant Valley Care Home and their team of incredible care providers, also to Maggie’s Hospice who served her and her family in her final days.  Jeannene will be buried near her parents in Lehi, Utah following services here.

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Brian R. Monroe - March 21, 1957 - April 05, 2024

Departed: 04/05/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Brian R. Monroe.

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Ross J. Beesmer - February 12, 1931 - April 04, 2024

Departed: 04/04/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Ross J. Beesmer.

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Charles Arthur Bornsheuer - June 14, 1952 - April 02, 2024

Departed: 04/02/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Charles Arthur Bornsheuer.

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Millissa D. Henderson - June 27, 1974 - April 02, 2024

Departed: 04/02/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Millissa D. Henderson.

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Phyllis M. Doyle - June 16, 1943 - April 01, 2024

Departed: 04/01/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Phyllis M. Doyle.

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Alistair Fraser Ballantine - May 27, 1946 - April 01, 2024

Departed: 04/01/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: Alistair Fraser Ballantine, father, grandpa, friend and ‘Legend’, passed away peacefully in Prescott on 1st April.

His life was rich and full, and his legacy lives on in all those who met him, no matter how fleeting.

His family invite all those who knew Alistair to join in celebrating his extra-ordinary life at a remembrance service to be held on Tuesday 16th April at 1pm at Ruffner Wakelin Funeral Home Prescott. Alistair loved dogs, and in place of sending flowers he would have preferred for any donations to be made to the Yavapai Humane Society, https://yavapaihumane.org/donate/

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Richard Albert Sanders - August 27, 1930 - March 31, 2024

Departed: 03/31/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: Dr. Richard Albert Sanders (Dick), 93, of Prescott, AZ died March 31st, Easter Sunday 2024, surrounded by family. Dick was born August 30th, 1930, in Portsmouth, Virginia, the son of Albert Earl Sanders and Jean May (Anderson) Sanders. Dick’s dad was a career Navy Chief so he moved many times, back and forth from east coast to west coast, in his childhood. As a young boy in Maryland, he lost both of his young sisters, Lorraine older and Sylvia younger, to an illness, possibly meningitis. His mom helped cultivate his love of books, poetry and music, and taught him to sew and cook. His dad, ever the sailor, taught him the value of two minute showers and table manners (Elbows out? Rig in your booms!), and how to make anything with his hands and the right tools. Dick’s dad made him a shoe shine kit, and throughout his childhood he shined shoes by the Navy piers to make extra money. In junior high he learned to play saxophone and by high school in Bremerton, WA had his own swing band that played at dances and parties. In Bremerton he discovered the beauty and challenge of the Cascades, and deepened his love and respect for the wild places and the ocean. His California days took him closer to many of his cousins and gave him opportunities to learn how to swim and surf.

He met the love of his life, Kathleen Mary (Kline) Sanders in the winter of 1950 in Sun Valley, Idaho, where she was working as a “cabin girl” and he as a “night boy”. They were both excellent skiers in their spare time, and after a winter working together decided to elope on April 15, 1951. To this union 5 children were born. Dick was a loving husband and father, and passed along his love of learning, amazing work ethic, respect for natural places, love of cats, and sense of adventure to his children. Dick was not raised Catholic but upon marrying Kathy promised to raise his children in the Catholic faith. He was active in his parish, loved to lector, knew the prayers better than anyone, but waited until all his children had moved away from home to fully enter the church. He encouraged each of his children to follow their dreams, and supported them in any way he could. Dick had a special relationship with each and every one of his grandchildren and loved them dearly.

Dick was a lifelong learner who truly appreciated the value of education. He earned a BA in English and a BA in Elementary Education from Western Washington State in 1951. He went on to teach in elementary schools in Denver, CO, Jackson Hole, WY, Globe, AZ, and for a year in Mazatlán, Mexico where he taught high school English and his growing family learned Spanish. In 1959 he moved his family to Fayetteville, AR to pursue graduate studies in Clinical Psychology. He learned how to build and create things, working often with his children on unending projects in his garage -car engines, canoe building, cabinetry, rock tumbling, lathe work - all the way to building an ultralight plane.

After completing his PhD in 1962, Dick and family, with all their possessions in a Volkswagen van, moved to Norfolk, NE. Dick began his career as a Clinical Psychology Intern at Norfolk State Hospital. Community mental health was virtually unknown in the 1960s and much of Dick’s long career as a clinical psychologist involved pioneering community mental health centers across the northern half of Nebraska, in a time when people with mental illness and those with intellectual challenges were isolated and hidden away in institutions. Dick believed that mental, physical and spiritual health were interconnected, promoting good health practices in any way he could. (Dick was ferociously anti-cigarette and banned smoking in all of his mental health clinics, decades before this was the norm.) He became the Director of the Northeast Nebraska Mental Health Clinic in 1967. Dick went on to found community mental health clinics, half way houses, head start programs, and other health initiatives in rural towns across northern Nebraska, and in southern South Dakota where he consulted with the Indian Health Service. Dick was also an Associate Professor at Wayne State College from 1963 to 1971, and a part time faculty at Creighton University, 1976-1978, teaching college psychology classes in the evenings after a full day of work in mental health clinics. He served as a consultant for many mental health outreach programs, was twice appointed to the Governor’s Nebraska Commission on Drugs, and served as president of three of his professional mental health associations. In every aspect of his professional life, Dick advocated for the marginalized. Dick served on governing boards for numerous health, community outreach, and environmental organizations.

Dick loved to hike, camp, and explore, climbing Mt. Rainier as a teenager, and hiking and camping throughout the western national parks and forests. He took his family camping each summer where everyone could learn about fishing, geology, natural history, stars, beach combing, and the magic of a campfire. He and Kathy continued to travel extensively after the kids left home, often to visit one of their children who lived at various times all over the US, and in Mexico and Canada. In the early 1960s Dick discovered another love - flying. His pilot’s license, instrument rating, and Cessnas allowed him to get to and from his rural mental health clinics in a day so he could spend more time with family. Flying also allowed Dick and Kathy to travel farther afield to visit friends and family, attend air shows and fly-ins, and even fly to the Bahamas a few times. In the 1980s, Dick bought a used Subaru and a month later, in mid-winter, he and Kathy drove to Fairbanks, Alaska. Nothing was better than a new adventure, except maybe a new operating system once personal computers were born. In his later years Dick was an active advocate for environmental causes, especially those focused on conservation efforts, and he and Kathy were avid birders.

Once Dick retired, he and Kathy decided to settle in Prescott, AZ. They bought a house in the pines in the late 1990s and quickly became active members of the community. He continued to hike and explore, his crowning achievement a multi-day family backpacking adventure in the Pariah Canyon Wilderness. He and Kathy were immersed in service to their community and parish. Dick and Kathy appreciated the arts and loved Prescott’s rich artistic community. Everywhere he went, Dick was an instrument of peace and justice.

Dick is survived by Kathy Sanders, his beloved wife of nearly 73 years; his children Brian (Wendy) Sanders of New Hartford, NY, Eric Sanders of Cedaredge, CO, Sally Sanders of Prescott, Paul Sanders of Norfolk, NE, and Nancy (Brian Degenhardt) Sanders of Kirksville, MO. Dick is also survived by his ten grandchildren, Lanika; Beth, Sarah & Kyle; Timilin, Dylan & Tempest; Daniel, Chiara & Brennain, and 12 great grandchildren.

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Cecilia Ann Sansonetti - June 10, 1935 - March 30, 2024

Departed: 03/30/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Cecilia Ann Sansonetti.

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Chester Bond McLaughlin - June 21, 1956 - March 30, 2024

Departed: 03/30/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: Chester Bond McLaughlin IV died peacefully surrounded by family at his home in Prescott, Az., on March 30, 2024. Affectionately known as "Chip," he was a beloved father and husband and a steadfast friend and advocate for many. He was 67 years old. Chip grew up in the northeast, where he developed a life-long love for the outdoors from an early age. Born in Bronxville, N.Y., on June 21, 1956, to parents Chester Bond McLaughlin III and Elizabeth Taylor McLaughlin, Chip enjoyed swimming, biking, and exploring. He attended the George School in Newton, Penn., and cherished his summers spent trekking across national parks on NOLS outdoor leadership excursions or vacationing in Maine with his sister and cousins. Chip attended Colorado College in 1975, where he earned a bachelor's degree in psychology.His love for adventure, coupled with an innate courage and independence, led him to bike across the country by himself as a college student - an expedition that resulted in deep spiritual reflection and human connection with strangers from all walks of life. Whether on his own or with a group, Chip never met someone he couldn't talk to and empathize with, a trait he carried with him through all his years. Upon graduating from Colorado College, Chip chose to pursue a legal career, driven by a desire to help those who didn't have the voice or means to help themselves. He attended the St. Louis University School of Law in 1980, where he met his first wife, Barbara McEachern McLaughlin, with whom he later had two children. After graduation, they relocated to Arizona, where Chip began his long and successful career as an elder law attorney. As a direct descendent of Harvard Law's Samuel Williston, the renowned "father of contracts law," and the revered New York Appellate Court Judge Chester McLaughlin, Chip was gifted with a sharp legal mind. His career in elder law flourished, beginning with positions with the Arizona State Hospital, the Samaritan Foundation, and the Law Offices of Charles Arnold, before he ultimately opened his own practice in Phoenix in 1995. Over the years, he was consistently listed in Best Lawyers in America and Southwest Super Lawyers, became a life member of the national registry of Who's Who Top Lawyers, and was an active member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, serving as president and vice president of the Arizona chapter. But it was his unwavering compassion for others and lifelong pursuit of truth and goodness that made the biggest impact, both on his career and the lives of those he helped and loved. He spent many years serving on the board of the greater Phoenix chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and the Governor's Council on Aging, tirelessly advocating at the state and federal levels for policies, funding, and research to better support the unique needs of seniors. Chip was known for his generosity and sense of humor, and he often made lasting personal connections with the people he served. His children lovingly remember the way he opened his home and heart on holidays to individuals he met who were less fortunate and without families of their own. Chip continued to serve his community when he relocated his firm to Prescott, Az., in 2008, where he went on to practice law for another 15 years. He became an active board member of Prescott Meals on Wheels and the Prescott Area Boys to Men, the latter of which imbued a new passion for helping adolescent boys reach their fullest potential. He carried that passion through to the end of his life, serving as a mentor with the local Boys and Girls Club and leading the Launch Pad Teen Center's school-based empowerment circles up until his final days. While living in Prescott, Chip also met his second wife, Nanci Chalquest, in October 2018. They shared a love of hiking and traveling and spent time together loving on friends and family - especially Chip's grandchildren, who could never wait to see them for hours of fun wrestling, building train tracks, and playing silly games. He and Nanci married on August 14, 2023, and spent their final months together in the historic home they carefully and beautifully renovated near Prescott's downtown square. Chip will always be lovingly remembered for his courage, honesty, and vulnerability - the guiding principles that shaped his life, touched the lives of countless others, and made him beloved by so many. He is survived by his wife Nanci Chalquest, daughter Kirsten Yates, son Taylor McLaughlin, grandchildren, Austen Yates, Evelyn Yates, and C. Allen Yates Jr., and sister Margaret Lawrence. A celebration of his life will be held on May 4, 2024, with a service at the Center for Spiritual Living, Prescott, Az., at 1:30 pm MST, and a reception to follow at the Sam Hill Warehouse.

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William R. Zekoff - June 12, 1937 - March 29, 2024

Departed: 03/29/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: William (Bill) R. Zekoff went into the arms of Jesus on March 29, 2024 at the age of 86

Bill was born in Waterloo, Iowa on June 12, 1937, the oldest of three siblings, to parents of William and Doris Zekoff. Bill spent his childhood years helping run the family farm. After high school in 1955, Bill was employed by the United States Government as a postal worker on the railroad. Then in 1959, Bill was drafted into The U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1962. After the army, Bill met the love of his life, Ruth (Boldt) and they were married on February 29, 1964. While still employed with the US Govt, Bill decided to make a career change and started college at DeVry University studying computer electronics, graduating in 1967 with a degree in computer science. For the next thrity-five years, Bill was employed by Sperry Univac and retired from Ironwood Electronics in 2002.

In 1967, Bill and Ruth welcomed a son Bret, and later in 1970, a daughter Shannon. Bill and Ruth lived in Prior Lake, Minnesota for most of their married life. In 2021, Bill and Ruth moved to Prescott Valley, Arizona to be closer to family. Bill had a love for hunting and fishing. He was a active member of the Prior Lake Sportsmans Club for over 40 years were he served many of those years as club secretary. Also, was a certified fire arms instructor for youth. Bill and Ruth loved to spend time traveling throughout their married life with many fishing and hunting trips with family and friends

Bill is survived by his wife, Ruth, son Bret (Kimberly) of Prescott, Arizona, brother Roger Zekoff of Denver, Iowa, Sister Sylvia (Chuck) Dorsey of Alexandria, Minnesota and brother Dennis Zekoff of Longmont, Colorado. Also, step grandchildren Jacob (Samantha) and Adam Ulibarri. Also many nieces and nephews. Bill was proceeded in death by his parents, William and Doris Zekoff, daughter Shannon (Hemming) Zekoff, and sister-in-law Mardell Zekoff A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April, 27th @ 12:00pm at Alliance Bible Church 2601 Iron Springs Road, Prescott, AZ 86301. Then after service, a luncheon, will be held at the Hassayampa Inn 122 E, Gurley Street, Prescott, AZ 86301. All are welcome The family asks that any donations be given in Bill Zekoff's name to the Dementia Society of America

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Barbara Jean Wolhart - December 03, 1955 - March 27, 2024

Departed: 03/27/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Barbara Jean Wolhart.

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Elbert Clifford Kitchens - October 23, 1950 - March 26, 2024

Departed: 03/26/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Elbert Clifford Kitchens.

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Terry Ann Sutton - July 06, 1966 - March 25, 2024

Departed: 03/25/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Terry Ann Sutton.

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Judith Irene Watson - March 02, 1937 - March 21, 2024

Departed: 03/21/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Judith Irene Watson.

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Daryl Wayne Leslie - January 30, 1963 - March 20, 2024

Departed: 03/20/2024 (Prescott)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Daryl Wayne Leslie.

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Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comforting and serene atmosphere, perfect for families to gather and pay their respects. The chapel is spacious and elegantly decorated, accommodating large or small gatherings with ease. Additionally, the funeral home offers ample parking, making it easily accessible for all visitors.

Funeral Services Offered

Ruffner-Wakelin Prescott Chapel Funeral Home and Crematory provides a comprehensive range of funeral services to cater to the unique needs of each family. These services include:

Traditional funerals with visitation and burial or cremation options

Cremation services with memorialization options

Memorial services without the presence of the deceased

Pre-planning and pre-funding options for those who wish to plan ahead

Cremation Services

The funeral home's on-site crematory ensures that families can trust that their loved one will be cared for with dignity and respect throughout the cremation process. They offer various cremation options, including direct cremation, cremation with memorial service, and traditional cremation with visitation.

Personalized Funeral Options

Ruffner-Wakelin Prescott Chapel Funeral Home and Crematory understands that every individual is unique, and therefore, every funeral should be too. They work closely with families to create personalized funeral services that reflect the personality, interests, and achievements of their loved one.

Grief Support and Resources

The funeral home recognizes that grieving is a difficult process and offers support and resources to help families navigate their loss. They provide access to grief counseling, support groups, and online resources to ensure that families receive the care they need during this challenging time.

Community Involvement

Ruffner-Wakelin Prescott Chapel Funeral Home and Crematory is deeply committed to the Prescott community, actively participating in local events and supporting charitable organizations. Their involvement helps foster a sense of connection and compassion among community members.

Contact Information

If you're in need of funeral services or would like more information about Ruffner-Wakelin Prescott Chapel Funeral Home and Crematory, please don't hesitate to contact them:

Phone: (928) 778-2210

Email: [info@ruffnerwakelin.com](mailto:info@ruffnerwakelin.com)

Address: 303 S. Cortez Street, Prescott, AZ, 86303

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It serves as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with friends, family, and community.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries are important because they provide a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also informing others of their passing. They offer a sense of closure and allow friends and family to pay their respects.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, an obituary is written by the family of the deceased, often with the assistance of a funeral home or mortuary. In some cases, a friend or colleague may also write an obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include a brief biography or personal anecdote.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary, but it's generally recommended to keep it concise and focused on the most important details. Aim for 1-2 paragraphs at most.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and newspapers allow you to include photos with the obituary. This can be a nice way to personalize the tribute and make it more engaging.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to find out their submission guidelines and deadlines. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for publication.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only the basic facts such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that provides additional information about the person's life.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to take control of how they want to be remembered. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and legacy.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the newspaper or online platform. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the length and features of the obituary.

Can I publish an obituary online for free?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to publish an obituary for free or at a low cost. These may include websites dedicated to obituaries, social media groups, or memorial websites.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publishing an obituary varies depending on the newspaper or platform. Some may publish immediately online, while others may take several days or even weeks for print publication.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after publication. However, this is not always possible, especially if it has already been printed in a newspaper.

What if I want to keep the obituary private?

If you prefer to keep the obituary private, you can opt for a private or password-protected online memorial instead of publishing it publicly.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a worthy cause.

How do I notify Social Security about a death?

You should notify Social Security immediately upon the death of a loved one by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting their website. This will help ensure that any benefits are stopped and potential survivors' benefits are processed.

What if I'm unsure about some of the details in the obituary?

If you're unsure about certain details such as dates or relationships, it's okay to omit them or indicate "unknown" rather than providing inaccurate information.

Can I include humor or personality in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary is a celebration of life, so feel free to inject some humor or personality into the writing to reflect the deceased person's spirit.

How do I handle condolences and messages from others?

You can include information in the obituary about where condolences can be sent or how people can leave messages online. You may also want to set up a memorial book or guestbook at the funeral service.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider asking a friend or family member for assistance. You can also seek guidance from a funeral home or professional writer.

Can I reuse an old obituary template?

You can use an old template as a starting point, but be sure to customize it for the individual who has passed away. Avoid using generic language or phrases that don't reflect their unique life and personality.

How do I preserve an online obituary over time?

Maintain access to the online platform where the obituary was published, and consider printing out a copy for safekeeping. You may also want to create a physical memory book or scrapbook with copies of the obituary and other memorabilia.

What if I want to create a permanent online memorial?