Luci F. Perez

Luci F. Perez of Phoenix, Arizona passed away peacefully after a long battle with pancreatic cancer on April 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and friends. She was born on December 15,1946 in Phoenix, AZ The daughter of Mary and Claudio Fontanilla with her three sisters Nellie, Juanita and Nancy.

Luci was a devoted wife, mother, Nana, and great Nana whose warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew her. She is survived by her daughter Claudine (Dena) Soto and her son-in-law Ernie Soto, along with their sons, Robert Soto (Kyla) and Alexander Soto (Julie),. Luci was also a loving stepmother to J.R. Perez, Steven Perez, Barbara Perez, and a proud Nana to Alexis, Elisha, Mia, and Luca Perez. Luci was a cherished great Nana to Bella Luna Soto and Ellie Soto, who brought her immeasurable joy and pride. Luci is also survived by her sister, Nancy Boettcher, and her brother-in-law Karl. She shared a close and loving bond with her niece, Lisa, and Lisa’s husband, Alexander Graf von der Schulenburg. She was a proud great aunt to their children: Carl Alexander, Amelia, and Leo.

Luci was a long-time employee of the City of Phoenix and retired as the head of the City of Phoenix Film Office where she had spent many years promoting and supporting the motion picture industry in Phoenix. After her retirement with the city, she worked as an administrator for the catholic parish of St. Mary’s Basilica and successfully managed the annual Dias de los Muertos festival in Downtown Phoenix by tirelessly organizing and motivating vendors and volunteers.

Family was the heart of Luci’s world. She treasured every moment spent with those she loved, whether sharing laughter, offering wisdom, or simply being present with her warm and welcoming spirit. Her kindness made everyone feel at home. Luci embraced each role in her growing family with joy, compassion, and unwavering support. Her laughter, her gentle strength, and her deep love will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Luci leaves behind a legacy of devotion, generosity, and the simple yet powerful gift of being present for the people she loved. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she graced.

A Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 9:00 am with a Rosary at 9:30 am followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 am at St. Mary's Basilica, 231 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004. Interment will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 2033 N. 48th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008.