Simon Silvas Navarro

Simon Silvas Navarro was born in Phoenix, Arizona, on December 9, 1940, to Josephine Silvas and Simon Carillo Navarro. He grew up in the Marcos de Niza Projects, attended Lowell Elementary School, and graduated from Phoenix Union High School, where he excelled as a member of the cross country team. After graduation, he attended Phoenix College, and in 1960, he joined the United States Navy, where he served as a medical corpsman until 1964. 

After his discharge in 1964 and a very long engagement, he married Juanita Janet Rivera. 

He then resumed his college education at Phoenix College and Arizona State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. 

Simon worked for First National Bank of Arizona and the Arizona Contractors Services Center. Then he spent over 30 years with the State of Arizona, serving at the Department of Transportation before retiring from the Department of Environmental Quality in 2005. 

Simon was a passionate fan of the ASU Sun Devils and the Phoenix Suns. His love for sports extended to his personal life, as he enjoyed playing golf, walking five miles or more a day, and working out. He often played basketball with his daughter, son, and nephews, a testament to his energy and love for physical activity. 

Simon was an extremely devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was the pillar of our family, always there for us, attending all our activities, no matter how significant, being present at the most critical moments and events, and throughout all, sharing his deep love for his family. 

With a smile that could light up a room, Simon had a playful spirit that made even the most ordinary days memorable. Whether it was a silly remark or a spontaneous dance move, he had a way of filling every space with laughter, warmth, and song. His joy was infectious, and it didn’t take much for him to find fun in the little things; he was the kind of person who created delight for others just by being himself. 

Simon is survived by his wife of 60 years, his daughter, Maria Haugen, his son, Simon Gabriel Navarro (Christy Atler), and his daughter, Jennifer Minton (Reuben). Also, grandchildren Ian Haugen, Bella Navarro, Aaron, and Isaac Minton; sisters Catherine Lopez, Martha Dupras, Mary Aycart, and Lucy Trujillo; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents and his sister, Josephine Morales. 

The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to all the staff at Savannah House Memory Care for the exceptional care and love they showed to Simon during his time in their care. Their dedication and compassion were a source of comfort to Simon and his family. We also extend our thanks to the caregivers and staff of Endeavor Hospice and Homecare. 

Instead of flowers, the family kindly encourages donations in memory of Simon S. Navarro to support the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute at www.bannerhealthfoundation.org or Banner Health Foundation: 2901 N. Central Ave. Suite 160, Phoenix, AZ 85012. 

A Visitation will be held Friday, July 11, 2025 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018. A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary's Basillica, 231 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004. Interment will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 2033 N. 48th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008.

A Reception will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025 from 1:30 - 3:30 PM at the Royal Palms Resort and Spa - Palmera Salon, 5200 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018, complementary valet parking available.