Florencio Aranda

Florencio "Lencho" Alamos Aranda, Jr., 89, entered into rest on January 15, 2018. He was born June 27, 1928 in Safford, Arizona to Florencio M. and Juanita Alamos Aranda. Florencio attended Safford Public Schools, graduating from Safford High School. Florencio honorably served his country and is a veteran of the Korean Conflict. On December 25, 1950 in Lordsburg, New Mexico, Florencio married Virginia Aranda. They had four children of their own; Michael, Robert, Lisa and Steve. The marriage of his wife, the birth of his children, ten grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren are among his most meaningful life events. He worked at the Department of Corrections for 25 years, retiring as Sergeant, and was a member of the American Legion Post 95 of Solomon. It was apparent that he cared for his family and community. He has been a part of the Safford community his entire life. His hobbies and interests included landscaping, watching football and boxing. Most of all he enjoyed family celebrations. Florencio is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Virginia Aranda, children; Michael (Charity) Aranda, Robert (Ruby) Aranda and Lisa (Marcus) Garza all of Safford and Steve Aranda of Tucson, siblings; Ann Leyva and Mary Hinojos, 10 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Florencio and Juanita Aranda; siblings, Trancito, Albert, Jose Angel, Jesse and Tom and grandchildren Angelic Michelle and Ronnie Aranda, and William Kelley. Service are tentatively set as follows and will be verified tomorrow: A viewing will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. with the Rosary being prayed at 7:00 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 19th at 10:00 a.m. also at St. Rose of Lima with Father Robert Rodriguez as Celebrant. Interment will be in the Safford Cemetery following services.