Ruben S. Chavez, 76, a resident of Safford, AZ entered eternal rest Friday, March 27, 2026 at St. Mary's Hospital in Tucson, AZ. He was born July 29, 1949 in Lordsburg, NM to Benjamin Chavez and Maria Sepulveda.
He was married for 53 years to his wife Christina "Yolie" Chavez. Ruben enjoyed watching sports in his man cave, especially the Las Vegas Raiders, the LA Lakers, Arizona Wildcat basketball, and boxing matches. He cherished quiet moments on his porch, where he spent time watching and feeding birds while tending to his plants and trees; known for his gift of storytelling and his playful sense of humor, Ruben brought laughter and warmth to those around him. He was especially proud of his children and grandchildren and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them.
Ruben honorably served in the National Guard for seven years. He dedicated 20 years of hard work as a heavy equipment operator at the Hidalgo County Smelter.
He is survived by his loving wife, Christina "Yolie" of the family home; his son, Ruben Gabriel Chavez Jr. and wife Melissa of Safford; three daughters, Frances Martinez Vargas and husband Anthony of Tucson, AZ; Priscilla Erwin and husband Scott of Tucson, AZ; Elena Chavez of Safford, AZ; ten grandchildren, Derek Reyes, Selena Erwin (Lisa Erwin), Cyrria Erwin, Nisa Erwin, Sergio Rios, Aidan Erwin, Alijah Chavez, Aluisa Chavez, Corrina Felix (Alfred), and Alaina Vargas (Zach); three great grandchildren; two brothers, Fernando Chavez and wife Patsy of Lordsburg; David Chavez and wife Margaret of Lordsburg; two sisters, Martha Chavez of Lordsburg, Lucinda Chavez of Lordsburg; also numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Edward "Wally" Chavez and Benjamin Chavez; a granddaughter, Mariah Reyes.
Visitation will be Friday, April 10th from 10-10:30am at St. Joseph's Catholic Church with the holy rosary to commence at 10:30am. The funeral mass will follow at 11:30am with Father Jude Okonkwo officiating. Concluding service interment will take place at Shakespeare cemetery where he will be laid to rest by his brother Wally. Pallbearers are Derek Reyes, Aidan Erwin, Scott Erwin, Anthony Vargas, David Chavez, Fernando Chavez, and Robert Rodriguez. Honorary pallbearers are Ruben Chavez Jr. Alijah Chavez, and Sergio Rios.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfunerlchapel.com.
