Ignacio Faz Jr.

Ignacio Faz Jr, age 81, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday morning, July 26, 2025, at his home in Boones Mill, VA.
Ignacio, also known as Jr, as he was called by some of his family and close relatives, was the oldest of six children born to Ignacio Faz Sr and Refugio Silva, in El Paso, TX. At the age of 18 he met the apple of his eye, Elvia, whom he affectionately called Eva. Three years later they tied the knot and together they had two children, Veronica and Ruben, countless dogs, cats, birds, fish, gerbils, hamsters and even snakes (for a short time).
He began his professional career working as a detailer while working for Ramsey Steel Company in El Paso, TX. He had a part in drawing up the plans used for the erection of the steel structures in some of El Paso's downtown buildings.
In 1973 he answered God's call to Pastoral ministry and with his wife's full support, he went back to school, fast tracked his way through college, one year of internship and graduated in 1979 with his Master's Degree in Divinity. For 30 years he was a full-time pastor of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, ministering to congregations throughout TX, Southern CA, and Colorado.
A quiet man of few words, Ignacio was known for having a brilliant mind. He was a walking calculator, a whiz at math and handling finances. A man of integrity who was willing to take a stand for what he believed, whatever the cost. He made time to visit each member of his flock and took a special interest in youth and children. He was forced into early retirement due to some health issues and in 2006 moved to Virginia to be close to Veronica.
He was an avid reader who in his last years enjoyed going for rides in the country, continuously learning about health, watching vegan cooking demonstrations, and spending time with his doggies and parrot.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Ruben Ignacio; three brothers, Jesus, Luis & Lorenzo; three sisters, Delane, Dolores & Amelia.
He is survived by his wife, Elvia of Boones Mill; daughter, Veronica Faz of Goodview; granddaughter, Amanda Arredondo of Santa Ana, CA; great-grandson, Saul Ruben Arredondo also of Santa Ana, CA; brothers, George Faz of San Diego, CA, Samuel Faz of Bowie, MD, Antonio Faz of El Paso, TX and sister, Yolanda Peña also of El Paso, TX; many (and we mean many) extended family members.
Will be especially missed by friends, Pastor & Mrs. Hector J., Graciela B., Brenda C., Jamison A., Ezra K., Yolanda B., Manrique B., Ernesto & Sonia R., Amapola M., Rudery & Dilma V., Reyna F., Vicente F., Pastor Edgar, Julie R.
A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Simpson Funeral Home, 5160 Peters Creek Rd, Roanoke, VA 24019, with Pastor Chris Buttery officiating. Burial will follow in the Mountain View Memorial Park in Boones Mill, 5970 Grassy Hill Rd, Boones Mill, VA 24065. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. A reception will be held at the Roanoke SDA Church, 4120 Challenger Ave
NE, at 2:30 after the graveside service.
Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home (540) 366-0707