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Rose Mofford
1922 - 2016
Rose Mofford
1922 - 2016
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1922
DIED
2016
Rose Mofford Obituary
Former Mofford spokeswoman and longtime friend Athie Hardt said Mofford died Thursday morning at a hospice she entered last month after she was injured in a fall.
Mofford was a Democrat who was the governor of Arizona from 1988 until 1991. She was the secretary of state and then took over as governor for Republican Evan Mecham, who was impeached and removed from office.
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A statement was released from current Gov. Doug Ducey: “I join the citizens of our state, and many across the nation, in mourning the passing of Arizona’s trailblazing first female governor, Rose Perica Mofford.
“Rose Mofford’s story is a truly unique Arizona story. Rising through the ranks of state government to our state’s top office, she shattered a once-thought-unbreakable glass ceiling and served as an unparalleled role model to many. She was nothing short of an Arizona treasure, and will be deeply missed.
“Governor Mofford brought people together. Both as a governor and a former governor, she exemplified the ability of leaders to unite us — to put partisanship aside and put our country and our state first. During challenging times for our state, Governor Mofford was the steady hand that led us through and held us together."
82 Entries
JOANN MONCRIEFF
September 14, 2020
I miss your smile and phone calls, you were a dear person and the world is a sad place without you.
Sue Vukcevich
May 6, 2017
Rose was one of my Dads best friends. They grew up in Globe-Miami together supporting each other in their sporting activities. in fact my brother noticed on his last phone bill in July 96 she one of the last calls he made.
I had heard a story how her Mother and my Grandmother came together on the same ship to America and became close friends.
I called Rose about 2005 and asked her about that and looked up the Ships Intinery and found Mrs Perica name along with my Grandmothers. I sent Rose a copy. I'm please to know that she was a special person in my Dads life. I remember when I was 10 he pulled up to a store and said, " We have to buy a Birthday card" I told him it was great I get to pick out my own B-day card he said," not for you it's for Auntie Rose!" I knew all of our relatives, never heard of her. He told me all about her. Hers was June 10 and mine is June 12. I spoke with her just a month before she passed I told her that story she laughed.
danny sampson
December 18, 2016
To the family I would like to tell a small story if you will let me please. I grew up in Arizona from 1958 to present. I heard knew and saw Rose on TV ,read about her and admired her greatly. She was an inspiration to me and caused me to want to be more and achieve more. When she was governor my father respected her. And spoke highly of her. I longed to meet her just to say hello and say how I admired her. In 2005 my chance came by chance while at breakfast one day when I and a friend also named Rose were seated at a birthday breakfast she had with friends. We were not on the list but we're seated in the room because the waiter made a mistake. I ordered breakfast and as the waiter left in walked Rose .I was stunned to get the chance to see her one on one. She was impressive and I found I was tounge tied and couldn't say even how thrilled I was. Years passed and my son died and buried at St cratherans cemetery .a couple of rows over. I'm glad he is in good company. He knew her as well from what I said of her. God bless and thank you for my letter.
mylie henney
December 13, 2016
mylie
How you can show support
ave mills
December 13, 2016
ave mills
October 29, 2016
RIP big hair gracious lady and past governor
Beth Castro
October 27, 2016
Dear Governor Mafford, you will be deeply missed. The only consolation is that you are now in Heaven with my father Raul H Castro discussing AZ politics
Ruth Benthin
October 26, 2016
Rose and I have been friends for decades. She was loved and treasured by all who knew her. She did so much for so many. She was truly blessed. May God keep her close, that's where she deserves to be. Until we meet again.
September 28, 2016
Rose was a good friend of my mother, Kay Jackson. Mom met w a group of ladies on Saturdays @ JB's for coffee. Rose joined on occasion. My mom spoke very highly of Rose. I never met Rose but spoke with her by phone when my mom passed in 2009. She was so nice and compassionate and I wish I had had the opportunity to have met her. She will be greatly missed by many people in Arizona. Susan Lucchesi, Newark,CA
L. Hubbard
September 22, 2016
We Love You !
This is a cropped version of my favorite picture of Aunt Rose and me at Easter while she is govenor. I am in the third grade here.
Missy O.
September 22, 2016
Rose Mofford's husband (ex), TR "Lefty" Mofford (Grandy to us) was my great grandfather. Rose preferred to be called "Aunt Rose." She wanted to feel young, always. Her and my grandmother were still very close. We all thought she would make it to 100! Your well wishes and prayers are very helpful, thank you.
She was an constant inspiration to me and I will always be proud to call her my "Aunt Rose".
Lorraine Garcia
September 21, 2016
RIP ROSE MOFFORD SHE WAS GREAT WOMAN I WOULD SEE EVERY SUNDAY AT JB ON CHRISTTOWN AND 35TH AVE & NORTHERN SHE WILL BE MISS AND IN HEARTS FOREVER
September 21, 2016
My heart goes out to Roses close friends, especially Louis, who called her every night. Rose will truly be missed and will never be forgotten. <3
September 20, 2016
Hello Rose family sorry to hear about the death in your family. Read act 24:15 in your Bible for comfort.
JoAnn Moncrieff
September 20, 2016
You were my friend & buddy when I needed one and I'll forget your kindness.
Bonita Blalark
September 20, 2016
My heart broke to hear the death of Arizona's Great First Lady.
Mother Mofford and I became friends and she made me laugh of stories about "the will".
She has always been in the hearts and wills of all those that knew her.
When her credentials are read at the gates of Heaven, I know there will be a sentence reading.. "You're in the will".
September 20, 2016
My condolences to the family. May the God of tender mercies bring comfort to the family.
September 20, 2016
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
G Rich
September 20, 2016
I'm sorry for your loss. May God be with the family and grant them peace - Psalms 29:11.
September 19, 2016
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Please find peace and comfort in Psalms 119:786.
September 19, 2016
The Assistance League of Phoenix want to express our sympathies of the passing of Rose Mofford. We were fortunate to have Rose
as a volunteer in our organization for many years.Rose always showed love and compassion
while working as a volunteer. Rose was a dedicated member of the Assistance League of Phoenix.
September 19, 2016
She could have become the first woman president. If only...RIP Gov. Mofford.
Sam Stone
September 19, 2016
I had the pleasure of working with Rose in the 80's and always remember how nice she treated everyone, anyone. I seen her several years later and she still remembered my name and our conversations. She loved our great state! Rest in Peace Mother Rose.
Rev. Donald Baker
September 19, 2016
I met Rose at J.B.'s restaurant when it was in the Christown Mall circle. She sweetly greeted everyone who entered. It happened that her birthday had been a few days before. I walked up and apologized for the interruption but I wanted to wish her a belated Happy Birthday. I told her I was a Republican but I knew her to be open to both sides. She invited me to sit with her group which began a friendship that lasted several years with exchange of birthday card and Christmas Cards. I, being a priest, she gave me a beautiful gold cross on my birthday. When the great earthquake occurred in Haiti which left many kids orphaned she said she would adopt one if she was younger. I photo shopped me as a baby, beard and all, in her arms and gave her adoption papers disavowing and right to inheritance. From then on she called me Sonny Boy and I called her Mother Mofford. Rose I will miss you so much. To your family I give me deepest condolences and prayers for you in your loss and mine and indeed all of Arizona's.
michelle plakas-kaiser
September 19, 2016
rip
September 19, 2016
RIP
James W Mofford
September 19, 2016
Godspeed Rose. Thanks for making the Mofford name memorable.
Pauline Urrabazo
September 18, 2016
I thought this woman made it possiable to achived dream and get get the repect everywoman should get. No matter what you did. . Me and my little girl (8yrs). Saw her. And miss rose says. Why isnt she in school. I thought about. It. And i understood her. It was a good. Comment. And we smile an walked away!. Goodbye,Mis Rose.. well b miss in my mind
Pauline Urrabazo
September 18, 2016
I thought this woman made it possiable to achived dream and get get the repect everywoman should get. No matter what you did. . Me and my little girl (8yrs). Saw her. And miss rose says. Why isnt she in school. I thought about. It. And i understood her. It was a good. Comment. And we smile an walked away!. Goodbye,Mis Rose
Claudia Bieth
September 18, 2016
Rose was truly a remarkable woman. She will be missed by many.
Claudia Bieth
RIP
Lita Marie and Vince Sanchez
September 18, 2016
JF
September 18, 2016
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Tony Morales
September 18, 2016
A very special lady who I had the extreme pleasure meeting and assisting on a trip home from California. Truly a highlight of my life. She was a down to earth and kind person and will be truly missed.
Scott Chamberland
September 17, 2016
Rest in Peace
Becky Rivas
September 17, 2016
I've always had a fondness for you Ms Mofford. I recall in school I had to write about a great woman. I had already written abt my grandmother who was a professional bullfighter and my mom said write abt Rose Mofford. Mom remembered you from when she lived in Kearny always admired you. Soon too I became a fan. I even dressed up as you for Halloween. I still have your wristwatch. I will put fresh batteries and wear it like a boss. Thank you Rose for making Arizona a great place. Rest In Peace. Always your fan, Becky
Jeffrey Boyes
September 17, 2016
My sincerest condolences to you and yours. The grief that is now being felt undoubtably comes from the loss of such a rare light, one that was true and guiding. I choose to embrace the great memories I have of Rose. Being fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her multiple times during my youth, she left me with lasting impressions during my formative years. To be shown that you can succeed in life while still being true to oneself, all the while respecting another's truth even if it's counter to your own, was the greatest of the many gifts of wisdom she...great, now I'm crying.
I will light a candle. A thank you! A light for a light. She will always be a symbol of old Arizona, my motherland. And I shall take her with me everywhere. With much love, we are lucky to have had her.
Emma Jean
September 17, 2016
God will "bind up the brokenhearted" ones who mourn. Isaiah 61:1.
Mofford family,sorry for your loss.
A. Moye
September 17, 2016
My sincere condolences and sympathy for the family and friends of such a strong woman and strong leader. Issiah 25:8. May you have strength and peace at your side. God tells us ,"Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be anxious, for I am your God, I will fortify you, I will help you, I will really hold on to you with my right hand." Is.41:10
September 17, 2016
Beloveds, truly sorry to hear about Rose Mofford. Her fine legacy will surely be remembered. I hope to meet her in Paradise! (Luke23:43)
September 17, 2016
I am so sorry for your loss. During this most difficult time many people find comfort in the words of Hosea 13:14. We look forward to the time in which God has promised that death will be a thing of the past.
September 17, 2016
May the God of comfort be with your family.
Dwayne Bickham,Sr.
September 17, 2016
In God's care, rest in peace.
September 17, 2016
My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Ardith Oakes
September 17, 2016
I had the great good fortune to live in Arizona when "Rosie" became governor. What a relief. What a joy. She was everything the state needed. Always authentic, caring and loyal, she was the most appropriate choice to get us through a difficult time. When I saw today that she'd passed, I couldn't believe it. I was sure she'd be around well past 100. But, for the years she did grace this earth, we were blessed with a real shining light. My tears are real looking at her picture, my condolences to family and friends deep and true.
angela marsden
September 17, 2016
I met govenor Mofford a few times at the JB's on 35th Ave and Northern. it was another favorite place of hers to go to. she always had a large table full of people with her. always socializing with a ready smile and salty humor. we will all miss her. prayers for her family and friends.
Old Christmas card from Rose Mofford when she was Governor....
Christopher Bucholz
September 17, 2016
Very sad Arizona news..... I always really liked Governor Rose Mofford. She was one of the NICEST and most caring politicians I have ever met. She was never divisive or political. We need someone like her now!! Everyone liked "Rosie" and you never heard a bad thing said about her by Republicans or Democrats. Back in 1988 I was the state headquarters manager of the Mecham Recall political organization which was responsible for making Rose Mofford the Governor of Arizona after Evan Mecham. I still remember the time I drove over to her home in Central Phoenix around 7th Avenue & Maryland after the Mecham recall was over with and she was just sworn in as Governor. I took her a long white box of a dozen "chocolate roses" as a congratulatory gift. She loved the chocolate roses and invited me into her home for a short visit. We had such a good visit and would occasionally talk on the phone after that.
I know she was a very big supporter of Hillary Clinton so it's sad that she won't be around to see the first woman elected President of the United States if that happens this November.
RIP Governor Mofford. You will truly be missed by all of Arizona! Thank you for healing the state of Arizona after the controversial recall and impeachment.
I have attached a copy of an old Christmas card I received from Governor Mofford I always cherished.
With deepest sympathy,
Christopher Bucholz
J Muellers
September 16, 2016
She was a true gift from God. I am so glad to have had the honor to know her...forever in our hearts.Mother
Tracy Dove-Coppen
September 16, 2016
Rose was a very classy woman full of spunk and good humor. She will truly be missed. Sending words of comfort to her family and all who loved her.
M M
September 16, 2016
May peace be with the family at this time of lost.
Robert Ritter
September 16, 2016
What a wonderful lady we have lost. She was the best friend Arizona could have had. She was my friend and I mourn her passing
Uly & Lula
September 16, 2016
To the family, Please accept our heartfelt condolences for your loss. May God's loving kindness comfort your family and help you through this very sad time. Ps 29:11
Mary Vasquez
September 16, 2016
Rest In Peace Rose.... America really could use someone like you in this years Presidential Election.
Dave Kopp
September 16, 2016
My deepest sympathies to the family and friends of a truly wonderful lady. All of Arizona shares your loss.
Robert Mofford
September 16, 2016
I am saddened in the loss of my Aunt Rose! She was such a great person, and a true servant to the people! Didn't get to see her much as I was growing up, due to her responsibilities as secretary of the state, the Governor. But she was always their when my family needed her the most. She married my Dad's oldest brother Thorold Robert Mofford, my name sake! Most knew him as Lefty Mofford. Glad I got the Robert out of that deal.
But Rose was a humanitarian after she left the Governors office. She truly loved helping people
She will sorely me missed!
Love you Aunt Rose, the Lord will show you the rest of the way home!
Your nephew,
Robert William Mofford
Sidney Jones
September 16, 2016
My sincere condolences at times such as this,few words of comfort maybe all that you can bear,so rely on God of all comfort and he will comfort you every morning in times of distress Isaiah 33:2.
Victoria Corrigan
September 16, 2016
So very sorry to hear of Governor Mofford's passing. Rose was a shining example of "servant leadership" before that term was coined: a steward for the state of Arizona and its people.
Honored to have met her during her time in public office, and was touched by her capability, confidence, and personal charm and warmth.
Sincere condolences to Rose's family and friends. Be comforted by the knowledge that she served Arizona and mankind well.
Gail Luck
September 16, 2016
God bless you, Governor Rose. You were the best governor in my lifetime here. That's 62 years. You were honest, humble, caring and capable. Thank you so much.
Lily Pioneer
September 16, 2016
May the hope found in Job 33:25 give you comfort in knowing that she will return to the days of her youth.
September 16, 2016
May it comfort you to know that God as well as others care about your loss at this time.
Sincerely
Lynn Figueroa
September 16, 2016
A beautiful well spoken Govenor. She was the guest speaker at my high school graduation in Patagonia, Az in 1990. Every time I drove through Globe, I would say, "This is the place Rose Moffard lives." I was proud to say, I personally met her . She leaves a legacy behind in our State and many other legacies, as well. Prays to all the family and friends she leaves behind. May God bless you and rest in peace . Say hi to my Grandma up there who also just passed away...she admired you !
September 16, 2016
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Mary Williamson
September 16, 2016
Rest in peace. You will be greatly missed
Sondran Neddo
September 16, 2016
Rest in peace
Juliet Conner
September 16, 2016
Gov. Mofford came to Winslow in 93' my grandfather talked me into going with him to the falcon to listen to her. He mentioned softball I went, after her political talk we introduced ourselves and being the only child and softball player there she sat and talked with me for over an hour about softball. My family and I stayed friends with her over the years, many cards back and forth, still have her voicemail from few years ago. Heaven gained quite an angel!!! Prayers and love to family and friends to this amazing Lady!
MARCEL BENBEROU
September 16, 2016
Governor Mofford,
Not only you were a true Arizonan, you were a great public servant, a great person above all. I had the opportunity to serve the residents of the Great State of Arizona as part of your Executive Budget Office. You were a sincere leader, while humble you were also the example in Public Service. You treated your employees, coworkers and all people with honesty, respect and dignity. I learned from you and tried to carry out those values throughout my professional career. I want to thank you for everything. We miss you. Rest in peace.
Marcel Benberou
Phoenix, Arizona
Lesley Lillywhite
September 16, 2016
Rose Mofford was my exemplary role model. She is one of Arizona's best daughters.
Lesley Lillywhite (3rd generation daughter of AZ.)
Rebecca Sours
September 15, 2016
God bless her whole family my prayers are with you guys she had made an amazing impact on a lot of people she will be missed by all my condolences to all her family members may God be with all of you in this time of loss.
Laura George
September 15, 2016
I am deeply saddened by the loss of such an amazing woman. Rose Mofford was by far the best Govenor Arizona has ever had. She was always very kind and personable when I would see her in public. I have a spring training baseball with her autograph on it. She will be greatly missed. My prayers and thoughts go out to her family and close friends.
September 15, 2016
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived
Rhonda Juster
September 15, 2016
My Mom and Dad used to live next door to Rose for over 30 years. What a sense of humor! Rose would occasionally ring my parent's doorbell, standing backwards, hoping my Dad would be there to "zip" up her outfit. So, if my Mom would answer the door, Rose would say, "Oh, it's YOU Muriel" (inferring she would rather have had my Dad there to do the zipping instead!) Just thinking about that story makes me laugh. Rose would always re-tell the story about her flight to here or there, and some guy who would say to her..."you are either the OLDEST flight attendant I've ever seen, or you're the Governor of Arizona!!" Heaven just got its first Angel with a Beehive! You'll be very missed by the entire Polett family!
Nicole Bunjovac
September 15, 2016
No matter what political party you come from Rose was such a great inspiration for a young women in my time. I appreciated everything she did and it made me a stronger women. And made me want to be a better women. Prayers and condolence to you and yours. Signed proud women of Arizona.
Jeri Fisher
September 15, 2016
Deepest sympathies to friends and family! Sorry for your loss! RIP
Monte Eddington
September 15, 2016
She will be missed ! My girlfriend and I used the see her quite often on the weekends at the JBs restaurant at 35th & Northern. She was always so friendly and full of spunk !!!
Lee Price
September 15, 2016
Met Rose in a steakhouse in Globe when I was about 5 years old! We were asked up to her house on the hill!! What a view. You could see for miles and the Sunsets. She was a wonderful Lady and a friend. I miss her already. Always looked forward to the yearly Christmas Card! Rest in peace my dear friend rest in peace.
Adrian Barnette
September 15, 2016
We'll miss you !
September 15, 2016
You will be truly be missed for all your hard and loyal work for all the people of Arizona. God bless you.
Dr. Connie Mullen, Phoenix, Az.
T S
September 15, 2016
Offering my condolence to the family at this time may you find comfort andand peace from the memories you cherished.
Leonard Muscolino
September 15, 2016
A tremendous loss for everyone in Arizona. A wonderful lady, she defined what a public servant should be: honest, caring, concerned,committed,involved, and on and on. There is a void in our hearts for this woman who preferred Mamma Rose to any other title. She will truly be missed. RIP Mamma Rose.
Jean chao
September 15, 2016
With deepest sympathy on the loss of your loved one. May it comfort you to know that Rose will return to the days of her youthful vigor as promised at Job 33:25.
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