RICHARD B. ELZY, SR.

Richard Elzy Sr, beloved husband, father, grand-father, uncle, and role model to many, passed away on May 7, 2019 at Tucson’s Banner University Medical Center. 

Richard was born on December 28th, 1950, in Douglas, Arizona where he resided for 68 years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Delfina Elzy, his children Richard Elzy Jr. and Carla Elzy, his grandchildren Yazmin Elzy, Isaac Elzy, Desi Elzy, and Reydin Altamirano, his brothers Arnold Elzy and Angel Elzy, and countless nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his sister Bertha Elzy, mother and father Carlos and Angie Elzy, and brother Carlos Elzy Jr.

Richard was a stand-out basketball player for the Douglas Bulldogs.  He later went on to serve his country as a member of the United States Navy and is a veteran of the Vietnam War.  After service, he returned to Douglas to work for Phelps Dodge Smelter for 11 years and went on to serve our town for the Douglas City Fire Department. After 22 years of service to his beloved community, he retired as a Lieutenant Engineer.

Richard is a local legend in the horse racing world where he trained for well over 3 decades.  He was instrumental in organizing the 2002 International Boarder Horse Races.  He also devoted many decades of mentoring kids in 4-H.  Richard loved to spend time roping with his fellow ranch amigos.  But most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family, and his grandchildren.  They just don’t make them like this extraordinary man anymore.  He will be missed by many, and his legacy will live on forever.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am to 10:30 am on Tuesday, May 14, 2019 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church with the Holy Rosary being recited at 10:30 am.  A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated following the Rosary at 11:00 am.  Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery with Honors being performed by the U.S. Navy Honor Guard, the American Legion and the Fire Department Color Guard.