Julian Saiz

Julian Saiz, 81, of Williams, Arizona, passed away on October 31, 2025. Born on August 27, 1944, in Williams to Seferino and Juanita Saiz, Julian was a lifelong resident who took great pride in his hometown roots.

Julian graduated from Williams High School in 1963 and went on to serve our country with honor in the United States Army from 1967–1969 during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he dedicated many hardworking years to the City of Williams Sanitation Department and worked as a talented cook at several local establishments, including Rod's Steakhouse, Denny's, Jessica's, and Old Smokey's. Known for his remarkable skills in the kitchen, he created meals with the same care and heart that he put into every part of his life.

On November 26, 1966, Julian married the love of his life, Sandra (Lucero) Saiz, and together they built a family grounded in loyalty, strength, and humor. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Julian was a proud Catholic and a man of few words, but his presence spoke volumes. He was strong-willed, fiercely loyal, hardworking, and had a mischievous sense of humor that kept everyone on their toes. In his younger years, he earned the nickname "One-Punch Saiz" for his scrappy spirit and tough attitude - a reflection of a life lived boldly and unafraid. Yet those who knew him best also knew the soft heart beneath that tough shell. He loved deeply, protected fiercely, and never hesitated to help someone in need.

A gifted carpenter, Julian could build anything from homes to wooden animals for the carport, a reflection of both his craftsmanship and his playful nature. He was also passionate about working on old cars and took great pride in his Chevys, spending countless hours fixing, tinkering, and admiring classic engines and bodywork. Julian bowled in local leagues for many years and was known for his powerful throws and signature curve that always seemed to find its mark. He enjoyed visiting swap meets and discovering treasures in what others might overlook, always appreciating the simple joys in life.

Julian was preceded in death by his parents Seferino and Juanita Saiz; grandchildren Zaxton Walters, Travis Carter Jr., and Maria Hayslip; brothers Edward and Johnny Saiz; sisters Belen Hartford and Eleanor Saiz and his long-time best friend Drake Seaman.

He is survived by his devoted wife Sandra Saiz; daughters Elizabeth (Teodoro Jr.) Tanori and Rita (Sean) Holly; grandchildren Shaunni Tanori, Michael Tanori, Faythe (Travis) Walters, Xaiden Tanori, Maria (Kyle) Floyd, Aleesia Phillips, and Julian (Jessica) Harlow; great-grandchildren Eliseo Walters, Hayzlee Walters, Parker Walters, one expected great-grandchild, Trinity Floyd, Kyra Floyd, Kellen Floyd, April Phillips, Joanne Carter, Hayden Harlow, Waylon Harlow, Xander Harlow, and Tyler Hayslip. He is also survived by his siblings Carolina Muñoz, Salvador Saiz, Marciana Saiz, Leopoldo Saiz, and Helen Saiz.

Julian's legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he served, and the many memories filled with laughter, grit, grease-stained hands, and love. He will be remembered for his strength, his humor, his unmistakable heart, and his love for good cars, good food, and good company.

Funeral service will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church Williams, Arizona. Viewing will be at 10 am followed by the Rosary at 10:30 am and Mass at 11:00 am.

Following the mass, family and friends are invited to proceed directly to the Williams cemetery for interment.

A reception will be held afterward at The Rodeo Steak House, located at 950 N. Grand Canyon Blvd., Williams, Arizona