David Player

David Michael Player, 68, of Safford, passed away with his loving family at his bedside, on Friday, July 26, 2013. He was born on March 20, 1945 in Dodge City, Kansas to Sam and Arlene Jennings Player. David married Kathryn Payne on April 2, 1965 and were blessed with five children. He graduated from the University of Arizona in 1968 and began his 29 year career at Safford High School in 1970 teaching choir, band, drama and coaching baseball. Music was an important part of his life, but Dave gave equal effort to his church. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. David held various callings including Bishop of the Safford 4th Ward and most recently serving in The Gila Valley Temple with his wife Kae. David is survived by his wife Kae Player, children Mike (Tammy) Player of Texas, Melissa Ponder of Mesa, Marcy (Brandon) Skinner of Safford, Matt (Kristen) Player of Safford, Mark (Katie) Player of Mesa, sisters Sammie (Bill) Thomas of Benson and Laurie (Randy) Weller of Globe and 11 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Sam & Arlene Player, grandson Bryce Player and son-in-law Scott Ponder. Services will be conducted Saturday, August 3, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. in the Safford LDS Stake Center. A visitation will be held Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. in the David M. Player Center for the Arts and one hour prior to the funeral services at the church. David will be laid to rest in the Safford Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made in David's name to the Safford High School Scholarship Foundation.