Mary Candice Nagel

Mary Candice Nagel
December 24, 1947 – November 7, 2025
Mary Candice Nagel ("Candice"), 77, passed away peacefully on November 7th, 2025,
surrounded by her adoring family. Born on Christmas Eve in 1947 at St. Joseph's Hospital in
Phoenix, Arizona, Candice often said she didn't love sharing her birthday with Christmas, but to
everyone who knew her, it couldn't have been more fitting. She truly was a gift to this world:
radiant, generous, and full of life.
Known for her signature white linen outfits, frilly socks, and bold, colorful earrings, Candice had
a sparkle that lit up every room she entered. She was the heartbeat of every gathering, a natural
leader, devoted friend, and the beloved matriarch of her family.
Candice grew up in Avondale, Arizona, and attended St. Matthew's Elementary School, Agua
Fria High School, and Arizona State University. Her calling to lead and serve others was evident.
Over the years, she made an indelible mark as a member of the Paradise Valley School Board, as
an executive and philanthropist for United Blood Services, and as a proud State Legislator for
District 24.
After her time in politics, Candice poured her creativity and passion into Arizona's hospitality
and tourism industry. She was instrumental in shaping the guest experience at The Pointe
Resorts, where she led the restaurant sales team and pioneered Pointe Intrigues - an innovative
in house program that created unforgettable group experiences for travelers from around the
world. Her love of people and celebration of life found its ultimate expression when she became
affectionately known as "Nacho Mama," the spirited owner of the historic Aunt Chilada's
restaurant, a true Arizona treasure. Just take a stroll on the patio, and you will see the beautiful
gardens, painted chairs and expressive colors resonating with all the beauty Candice created.
Candice's proudest and most meaningful role was always that of wife, mother, and grandmother.
Married to the love of her life, Ken Nagel, for 47 years, together they built a home filled with
laughter, adventure, and what the family lovingly calls "forced family fun." Her family was her
heart, and she was theirs.
Candice is preceded in death by her parents, Mary Agnes and Charlie Boone, and is survived by
her husband, Ken; her daughters, Tami Butcher (Mike), Jenni O'Brien (Jim), Michele Woods
(Dan), and Tiffany Nagel; her brother, Dan Boone (Ann); and her beloved grandchildren -
Kyle, Makenna, Kaity, Madison, Tatum, Brooks, Conor, Riley, Elle, Everest, and Jack. Each of
them carries forward her love of life, her laughter, and her boundless love.
A Celebration of Life honoring Candice will be held on Friday, November 21st at 2:00 PM in
the Hohokam Ballroom at The Hilton Phoenix Resort at The Peak (formally known as The
Pointe Resort) 7677 N 16th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85020 followed by a reception at Aunt
Chilada's - the place where her joy, generosity, and spirit will forever live on.
Candice's legacy reminds us to live boldly, love deeply, and always find a reason to celebrate.
She taught us that true beauty isn't about appearances, it's about how brightly you make others
shine. Candice was known for her signature white outfits, therefore, this Celebration of Life will
be a WHITE OUT. Grab your best white shirt or outfit and come celebrate with us.