Patsy J. Carper

Patsy Joan Murray Carper, daughter of Guy Dupree and Zina Thomsen Murray, died December 30, 2018. She was born in Douglas, AZ, on June 8, 1941. Her brothers, James Donald, Walter Lee, Robert William and Kenneth Ray preceded her in death along with her parents. She is survived by her four daughters, Kimberly Kay and Kristine Gay of Cochise, Constance Fay, South Carolina, and Candice May, Willcox, and one granddaughter, Samantha Joan. Patsy moved into the area in 1964. She grew up with her daughters and as they started school at Cochise Elementary volunteered hundreds of hours sharing her many talents and helping with plays, sports events, music, bulletin boards, programs, fund-raising, and whatever was needed. She loved all of the children and enjoyed watching them gain knowledge in any way possible. She was proud of the school and the caliber of the teachers, staff and governing boards – all working together for continuing improvement. Whenever anyone moved into the community, Patsy was there to welcome them with a plate of cookies and a smile. She branched out working under the leadership of Pauline Flanders and Ruth Wiegand in the 4-H program with all of the local and surrounding children. For years these children learned by doing. The whole community supported them at monthly meetings, project meetings, dances, parties – both local and county. Many ribbons and great experiences were enjoyed by all. She was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where she served as Relief Society President as well as serving in every position a woman can hold in the church – some several times - in the Willcox Ward and the Sunsites Branch. Her connection with the school children increased when she became the school’s Secretary/Business Manager, school nurse and even cafeteria helper! Once every month or so, she and Kit Monzingo, the cafeteria manager/cook, would introduce the students to a different country; showing how they dressed, what they spoke; their customs. Kit would then cook a meal for them to try. It was a very fun and interesting way to learn. Over the years, many of the children have stopped in at her home to visit. Patsy worked several years for the Calvin Allred Law Offices, then she worked for the Sunsites/Pearce Family Health Clinic for Eric and Jane Anderson and finally, clerked for Judge Linda Hale in Bowie and Judge Judy Bethel in Willcox. Her final and most rewarding position was helping to raise her granddaughter for sixteen years. She took early retirement so that she could remain at home with her in order that she would have one year of not having to attend day care before she started her years of schooling. She found great joy and satisfaction in this achievement. A private family memorial has been planned.

Patsy J. Carper

June 8, 1941 - December 30, 2018