Marvin Delbert Motes, 85, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was a devoted father, a hardworking professional, and a man remembered for his sharp mind, and unwavering dedication to family and community.
Born on March 16, 1940 in Central, Arizona at his grandparents' home, he grew up with a deep love of the land and an early fascination with aviation. After graduating from Willcox High School, he pursued his passion for airplanes by attending the Northrup Institute in Englewood, California, where he trained to become an A&P aircraft mechanic. He trained for and obtained his private pilot license while in Englewood. His years in aviation were marked by precision, responsibility, and pride in his craft - qualities that earned him the respect of his peers and the trust of all who worked alongside him. He worked for Boeing Commercial Airplanes in Everett Washington on the new 747. He later moved back to Arizona and started his own business, Cochise Aircraft, where he would teach flight lessons, crop dust and rebuild airplanes.
His love of aviation extended into education as well. He dedicated many years to teaching ground school at Cochise Community College, where he shared his knowledge, experience, and passion with aspiring pilots and mechanics. His students remember him as a patient, thorough, and deeply committed to their success. Through teaching, he played a meaningful role in shaping the next generation of aviation professionals.
Beyond aviation, he was equally accomplished as a farmer and rancher. Working the land was not just a livelihood for him, but a way of life. He took pride in caring for his livestock, stewarding the fields, and embracing the challenges and rewards that came with rural life. His work ethic was unmatched, and he approached every day with grit, patience, and a quiet strength that inspired those around him.
Though he wore many hats – pilot, mechanic, farmer, rancher, educator – his most reassured role was that of father and family man. He was a steady and comforting presence, known for his humor, wisdom, and ability to fix just about anything, if you can't fix it with bailing wire & duct tape it isn't worth fixing. He enjoyed telling stories, spending time outdoors, and passing down practical skills and life lessons that his family will always cherish.
Marvin is survived by his loving wife Elaine Motes, his son Timothy (Shawmaree) Motes, of Reserve, NM; his daughters, Marlaine (Scott) Taylor, of Okemos, MI, Michel (Joe) Coates of Tucson, AZ, Marsha (James) Graves of Bella Vista, AR, Melissa (Angel) Peru of Silver City, NM, and daughter in law Debbie Motes, of Tucson, AZ; his 26 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren; his brothers Devon Motes and Ronnie Motes, both of Safford, AZ; his sisters Ida (Gary) Hardy, of Safford, AZ and Mary Zinke, of Corvallis, MO; uncles Larry (Cheryl) Layton,
He is preceded in death by his parents Delbert and Gwena (Layton) Motes, son Wayne Motes.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 12pm, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Duncan, Arizona. Immediately following he will be laid to rest at Franklin Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels, trusted care for the ones you love ~ 575-537-0777.
