Elva Jean (Wilhite) Waters

Elva Jean Waters passed away at Tucson Medical Center on Tuesday, Dec. 5 with her loving husband at her side holding her hand.

On May 25, 1937 Elva was born to Allene and Len Wilhite in Hot Springs, New Mexico. Her family relocated to Arizona when Elva was a young child. She grew up on the Lazy J Ranch east of Douglas and was a member of the Douglas High School graduating class of 1955.

On Sept. 19, 1956 Elva Jean married Ronald (Ronnie) Waters. They were blessed with two wonderful children, son Russell and daughter Ronda. The family traveled to many locations including England while Ron served 20 years in the United States Air Force. Several years after Ron’s retirement he and Elva moved back to Arizona. Elva maintained her relationships with many of her childhood friends and easily made new friends wherever their travels took them.

In 1994, Elva retired after working at AT&T for 25 years. Following her retirement she was able to spend more time pursuing her many interests. She was an excellent seamstress, often making clothes for Ron and the children. Elva also enjoyed gardening, canning, cooking, shopping, quilting and working with ceramics. Following the passing of their daughter Ronda, Elva’s greatest joy was raising their grandson, Nicholas.

Elva Jean was preceded in death by her son Russell and daughter Ronda. She is survived by her husband Ronnie, her mother Allene of Benson; brother, Sonny (Linda) Taylor of Saint David; grandsons Nicolas of Tucson, Michael of Nevada; granddaughter Mallory of Nevada and great granddaughters Nicole and Ronda of Tucson.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, Jan. 26 at 10:30 a.m. at the First Southern Baptist Church in Elfrida.