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Thomas Elias Obituary
Tom Elias, 84, of Phoenix, passed away December 1, 2013. He was born on May 8, 1929 in Ray-Sonora, Arizona. He was one of six children born to Richard and Edna Elias. Tom grew up in Phoenix, attending Emerson Grade School and graduating from North High School. He served in the National Guard and was a life-time member of the Elks Lodge. He worked for thirteen years at Western Produce and many years as the assistant manager of Don Jose's Mexican Restaurant. Tom understood that the best things in life were the simple pleasures; good food, music, and playing the occasional slot machine at the casino. Above all, he valued his strong relationships with God and his family. His favorite times were spent at family dinners, hosting an annual Christmas Eve party, and cabin trips to the mountains. He is survived by his wife of sixty years, Gloria, his children, Virginia Sanford (Timothy Sanford), Tom Elias (Beth Elias), Mark Elias (Anne Elias), Tim Elias (Kelly Elias), and Maria Murphy (Bill Murphy), sixteen grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, his sister Sally Romley, brothers George and Joe Elias and many nieces and nephews. He will be remembered as a hard-working, quiet, and loyal man with quick wit, a sparkle in his eyes, and his unconditional love and devotion to his family. He will be missed by all. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 6, 2013 at 1:30 P.M. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church located at 4715 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85012, with interment following at St. Francis Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014. Arrangements entrusted to Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Elias
December 7, 2013
For papa and all our family! Till we meet again. Toodle-your-loo
Xoxo
December 6, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Tom, Beth and the entire Elias family. Although, I didn't know your dad he must of been a great guy to have a son like you. We are so sorry for your loss. In sympathy, 'Lily of the valley...symbol of peace and contentment' Love and Hugs from Rolly and Donna and Reed Family
Sue Whitney
December 6, 2013
Dear Aunt Gloria and all my cousins, I am so sorry for your loss and I pray our Lord will comfort you and calm all your sorrows. Uncle Tom, I will miss you!
Sue
Ann FitzGerald
December 5, 2013
Tommy, I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad. I hope your memories will help heal the sad feelings.
Marla Elias
December 5, 2013
It is no doubt, my uncle Tom was an amazing uncle who united our family every year on Christmas Eve and made an impact on everyone. His family welcomed everyone and the music filled the rooms.I will always cherish the memories that I have been left with. May you rest in peace and your family find comfort in knowing that.
December 5, 2013
"When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight" - Kahlil Gibran
My deepset sympathies to Tom, Beth and the entire Elias family. My thoughts are with you.
JohnPaul
December 5, 2013
To my Uncle Tom, may you rest in peace. To the entire Elias family, what a blessing he was. Uncle Tom always found the best in everyone, and united the family every Christmas eve.
We all loved him, and will miss him dearly.
December 5, 2013
You were always so kind to me when I was at your home, visiting Maria as a young freshman @ St. Mary's. My prayers and sympathy are with all of the Elias family during this difficult time.
God Bless,
Cheryl Sprinzl (Van Wormer)
Connie Van Wormer
December 5, 2013
We are so very sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts & prayers. From all of the Van Wormer family (St Mary's).
Ann Miller
December 5, 2013
To the Elias family,
I am so sorry for your loss.
My thoughts and Prayers are with you.
December 4, 2013
Tommy, our deepest sympathy to you and al of your family.
Kevin and Reggie
Sandra Othon
December 4, 2013
My sympathy to the entire family. Mrs. Elias, Ginger and Tommy, I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Sandy Othon
Susie Elias - Cotter
December 4, 2013
Uncle Tom, By far you were my favorite I will always have such wonderful memories of you growing up. We worked together at the restaurant for so many years you always made me smile. At Christmas I always looked forward to Christmas eve at your house you had so much love for everyone. I love you Uncle Tom and will miss you But I will never forget you. My prayers go out to my Aunt Gloria and my cousins. I know you will always be with me.
Peggy Shields
December 4, 2013
I loved and adored my Uncle Tom.I will miss him but never forget him.He was was the BEST.
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Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home4800 East Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018
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