John de Diós & Marsha Lavon Cordova

In loving memory

John was born in Tulare County California in the city of Tulare. He was raised in Albuquerque with his 4 siblings where he attended high school. He continued his education in business. After 2 years in the US Air Force, he worked his way to his Master’s Degree in business. John met his wife Marsha in an elevator in Washington DC during the 1960’s and it was true love from there on. He worked for the Indian Health Service for over 25 years as a financial officer. He retired in 1984 He also retired from 20 years in the Coast Guard Reserve. John enjoyed connecting with people. John enjoyed the game of golf, Spam and Velveeta cheese, and the occasional shot of tequila. He could carry on a conversation with anyone about any topic. John was known for his gentle nature and contagious sense of humor. He is survived by his younger sister Emma Jane Pacheco. He also leaves behind 3 children, Karen L. Puddy, Janette L. Hatcher and John D. Cordova III, as well as 7 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. A memorial service/celebration will be held on April 10th at 12 noon at Grace Bible Church located at 19280 N. 99th Ave, Sun City, AZ, 85373.

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Marsha was born in Wise County Virginia in the city of Dante. She attended Burkeville High School where she was a cheerleader and played on the high school basketball team. She modeled professionally, sang on the local radio station and went to work for the federal government at age 17. She met her husband John Cordova Jr. in an elevator in Washington DC during the 60’s. Marsha was a devout Christian who loved the Lord. Her passions in life included, holding tea parties with friends and family, and attending church and bible studies. She was an avid gardener and painter. She enjoyed making home-cooked meals and baking. Her specialty was her famous lemon meringue pie. After over 55 years with her husband John, she was still madly in love with him at the time of her passing. A true love story. Marsha is survived by her siblings Mary Queta Smithson, Gail Marney, Guy Kenneth Sutherland, Aubrey Redford Jr. and Julia Garret. She also leaves behind 3 children, Karen L. Puddy, Janette L. Hatcher and John D. Cordova III, as well as 7 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. A memorial service/celebration will be held on April 10th at 12 noon at Grace Bible Church located at 19280 N. 99th Ave, Sun City, AZ, 85373. Donations can be made directly to Hospice of the Valley in Surprise AZ.