With profound sadness, and hearts at peace, we inform you of the death of our beloved Jeffrey Jay Campbell at the age of 63. Jeff died peacefully and surrounded by family at his home in Phoenix, Arizona on January 26, 2023.
Jeff was, first and foremost, a family man. He was a dedicated husband to Annie, a loving father to Phillip and Katherine, and an adoring grandfather, “Poppy,” to Jackson. Jeff also leaves behind his daughter-in-law: Jillian, his sisters: Carrie and Kay, his brothers: John, Walter, Jim, Joe, Ed, and Andy, as well as numerous in-laws and 50-plus nieces and nephews. Jeff’s love for his family was so impactful that each member of his family believed they were his favorite.
Jeff was born and raised in Phoenix, as the fifth of nine children to Walter and Peggy Campbell. A lifelong member of the Catholic Church, he attended St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School and Bourgade Catholic High School. After starting at Arizona Western College, Jeff transferred to the University of Arizona, where he earned Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor degrees.
While at the U of A, Jeff met Annie, and they were married in 1986. Jeff started his law career as a tax attorney in Tucson, Arizona. Fueled by Jeff and Annie’s desire to see the world, Jeff took a commission as an officer in the United States Air Force and served as a Judge Advocate General. While serving at Royal Air Force Lakenheath in England, Travis Air Force Base in California, and The Pentagon, Jeff found his calling as a trial attorney, defending the United States in medical malpractice cases. In 1995, Jeff separated from the Air Force, and transitioned to private law practice in Phoenix. He was the founding director of Campbell, Yost, Clare & Norell, and had a long and successful career as an attorney.
Jeff always planned for an “encore career” as a high school teacher at his alma mater, Bourgade. However, this plan was derailed by his cancer diagnosis in 2017. Jeff courageously battled brain cancer for six years, survived a stroke, and endured numerous surgeries and treatments during his final years of life. Through all of this, Jeff never lost his infectious positivity and kindness. Jeff and his family are forever indebted to Barrow Neurological Institute and Hospice of the Valley for their care and support throughout this journey.
Jeff had many passions that guided him in life. He was an avid traveler and his thirst for adventure and exploration took him on Semester-at-Sea twice, (once as a student and again as a Head Resident), as well as to countries all over the world throughout his lifetime. He was an advocate for education, contributing to a Campbell Family Scholarship annually awarded to a St. Vincent de Paul graduating 8th grader, spearheading Bourgade’s All Class Reunion and 50th Anniversary Celebration, and joining the Capital Development Committee for the St. Francis Xavier Capital Campaign Fund. He believed in philanthropy, and he donated his time and resources to help others, serving both his church and community.
Jeff was an extraordinary person. His heart belonged to Annie, their children, and their grandson. He shared his time, knowledge, values, and joy of life with everyone around him. He was an admired attorney and colleague, a treasured friend, and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He was truly a gift to those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply and dearly missed.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Brophy Chapel, 4701 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012 on February 4, 2023 at 10:30am. A Celebration of Life reception will immediately follow – details to be shared at the Mass. For those unable to attend in person please join the live stream video to participate at the Mass at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFw_CF7jpJk
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Bourgade Catholic High School in honor of Jeffrey Jay. (https://bourgadecatholichighschool.factsmgtadmin.com/give/)
Yvonne Sposito
Annie, hugs tonyou and the family. My heart will always hold Jeff near. He was my friend, mentor and an amazing source of energy. He touched us all and we will never be the same. With love. Yvonne
Brian Vrtis
Jeff Campbell was such a dear sweet man! It was a honor, a privilege, and blessing to be acquainted with both Jeff and Annie . To the Campbell family, you have our deepest condolences and our prayers.
Patricia White
I will never forget Jeff. He was always very gracious and kind towards me. I pray that the family will be able to rejoice in the midst of their sorrow. His life on this earth was well lived.
Gus and Christine halandras
We are so very sorry for your loss. We enjoyed learning all about his life and his dedication to his beloved family and friends. May his memory be eternal. God bless you all in this time of sadness and loss.
Marge Bartsch
Annie, Kelly shared obituary with me- a life so complete with love leaves such gaping holes, but that same love empowers to take next step. I can’t imagine the breath of your lives together. I know your faith is sustaining you and the family. I know your God has not left you alone.. I pray for strength and peace in coming days. Your friend, Marge B
Marilyn joy- kolesar
I can do nothing more than smile when I think about Jeff. He was such a good hearted, fair, kind man and that is a very high calling for anyone.
Congratulations to living your life w the highest of ideals.
Jeff, I am so happy you did everything “your way”.
I would expect nothing less from you.
God speed Jeff… see you on the other side
Hilde Perlstein
Annie, thinking of you and the family. An absolutely fitting and beautiful obituary! Jeff touched everyone he met- his optimism, kindness and sense of humor were infectious. I have so many fond memories from his days in the Air Force and since then- he collected friends and never let them go. He was an incredible gift to all of us. Hugs to you and the family.
Solange and Jim OLoughlin
Jeff was the nicest man that I have ever met, it was a pleasure knowing him. Our condolences are with the Campbell family.
Richard Woodward
I am so sorry for Your loss . Jeff was truly a wonderful Man and A kind Sole .
My condolences .
Rich “Woody Woodward .
Amanda J. Stevens
I know Jesus and my dad, Bill Stevens, met Jeff at the pearly gates. Jeff was one of my Dad’s most favorite people. He used to tell me that there were few people, if any, in this world who were more upstanding, honest, good hearted, and who genuinely loved their job more than Jeff. My dad would joke and say that if he could change one thing about Jeff it would absolutely be his wardrobe. Jokingly, he would say, “I think Jeff wears a suit and tie to bed, to go swimming, and more than likely in the shower too. Jokes aside, Jeff saved my dad on his wedding day. My dad was going to show up to the church in blue jeans and boots to get married. Jeff and my mom, Rosanda Hinojosa, soon to be Stevens, if my dad found a suit and tie to wear for his nuptials. My dad wasn’t going to buy one to wear for a few hours. He thought that was a waste of money he didn’t have at the moment. He looked everywhere, asked everyone he knew, but all his friends only wore jeans and boots too. Guess who saved the day? Jeff brought my dad one of his suits. My dad said it was the only suit he wore his entire life. A little snug the suit was around the neck and shoulders, but Jeff reminded him that he had no friends who could bring him a larger suit, or any suit for that matter. Jeff gave my dad a once over, fixed his tie, shook his hand and said, “You look good in my suit, but no where near as good as I look in my suit. Now stop frowning and go get married to my best friend.”
I can’t swear that the story my dad told me my whole life is 100% accurate, but they both always gave each other a little crap about what the other was wearing. Memories, good memories.
Lastly, I just wanted to say that I just turned 41 years old 2 days after Jeff went to his eternal home. My earliest memory I have took place 37 years ago. I can remember Jeff comforting me because I was crying for my mom. Jeff was running around trying to find things to distract my attention. TV didn’t work. Ice cream didn’t work. Toys didn’t work. Neither did books, blocks, or my baby doll. Then Jeff ran to his room, slid down under the bed and brought out a huge box of Crayola Crayons. He said, “Here Amanda. Look at this. You will like these.” He was right. I loved to color. I stopped crying, sat up, and opened my box of crayons. I wanted the Red one first. But, it was not to be. Inside the box of crayons were old vacation photos. Boring to a 4 year old. And so the tears began to flow again. I remember Jeff showing me pictures and telling me every detail about the photo. He was an okay story teller, but he was no box of crayons.
He eventually calmed me down with his awesome story telling and I remember him putting a blanket over me and me starting to get so sleepy. This has been my earliest earliest memory from my childhood. I will forever hold this memory close to my heart.
I love you Jeff. You always made it your mission to make me smile. I remember speaking to you on the phone shortly before I graduated high school. You asked me to guess what picture you had on your desk in your office. You said you looked at it everyday. I had no idea at all. I guessed your wife, children, family pet, The Good Lord. Nope you said, wrong. I’m out of guesses. Please tell me. You decided not to tell me but to send me a copy of the picture. I remember getting it in the mail one day after school. I opened the envelope and looked at the copy. It was me. You had a picture of me on your desk. I felt so overwhelmed, yet loved. I couldn’t understand why a picture of me as a little little kid would be what you wanted to look at everyday. One day you have to explain to me what your reason was. I love you and I will always remember your smiling face. You and my dad will always have a piece of my heart. No ‘goodbyes.’ Instead, ’til we see each other again.’
Only through faith and belief in Jesus Christ can we be certain than one day soon, we will see our loved ones again. God’s word says if we confess with our mouths and believe with our hearts that God sent His Son Jesus to die for our sins, then we are saved. If anyone reading this isn’t sure if they are saved, just reach out to God. Tell God you are a sinner and that you want to be made new. No one is perfect. We ALL sin. But it is up to each person to ask for forgiveness of our sins. Then tell God you believe He sent his only son to die on a cross for payment for our sins and that you accept the gift of redemption. Confess out loud that you are a Child of God and ask God to come live inside your heart. Ask that God send the Holy Spirit to fill us up, guide us, and to give us discernment. Pray often, have faith, and love God’s People. True happiness and contentment will be yours!! Give God Praise!!! Amen Amen Amen
Marylynn Graham
Annie, I am so truly sorry for your loss. Jeff was a special person and I loved my 9 years at CYCN. Anytime I saw him after his diagnoses he was so upbeat and loving life. You and your family are in my prayers.
Scott & Linda Peterson and Deb Walker+ Neil..
We’re all so sorry to hear about Jeff, He, as well as all of the Campbell’s, meant a lot to us.
Darcy Royal
Annie, Swnding our deepest sympathies.
You and your dear family are in our thoughts & Prayers. What an unbelievable man of faith & beautiful tribute & life. Jeff’s legacy & loving ways will live on through your dear children & grandchildren. God bless you all.
Hugs,
Darcy Royal
Patty Mazier
Dear Campbell family:
My heart goes out to all of you. All I can say is that every time I had an interaction with Jeff there was a smile on his face. He lived a life pleasing to God – a life well lived. I am sure you have beautiful memories, but that doesn’t fill the void. Just remember he is with you always in spirit. I am so sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you all that you may bare your grief.
Bridget and Michael Martin
Annie,
So sorry for your loss. Jeff was a true light in the world, and that remains. Prayers for you and the family.
Viola Salcido
Jeff Campbell, will be greatly missed. He loved to make others happy, he was always gracious toward his employees. Keep smiling Jeff
Annie, I’m praying for you all.
Heaven got another angel
Jane
Where do you begin about Jeff Campbell??? A man for all seasons…always ready with his beautiful smile, a kind word, & his genuine interest in you! I am so happy our paths crossed in 2005, taking on the Lawrence Rd remodel! A true friendship came out of this project! How blessed I am!
Jeff you are an amazing man! Thank you for your love, friendship & for touching my life in so many ways! When I came for a visit, you said you were at peace…and now you truly are, Jeff!
Annie, Phillip & Katherine…my love & prayers are with you, always. Love, Jane
Michael Wolver
My condolences to Jeff’s family. He was a pleasure to work with whenever our paths crossed.