Edward Claridge

Edward Milton Claridge was born October 24, 1937 in Solomonville, Arizona to Linton and Lenora Lines Claridge. Edward grew up working on the family farm, graduated from Safford High School, and then served a mission in England for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Upon completion of his mission Edward attended ASU where he courted Anita Kay Taylor. Edward and Kay were married in the Mesa Arizona Temple in 1963 and have been married for 59 years. Early in their marriage Edward purchased a farm in the Gila Valley which he farmed for over five decades. He is well known for his strong work ethic, his love of the scriptures and his willingness to help others. He had a great love for America and great respect for the Constitution and our Founding Fathers. Edward fulfilled many church callings; among his favorites were teaching the Gospel Doctrine class in his ward and conducting Sunday services at the federal prison. At the age of 84 Edward passed away peacefully with his family by his side. He is survived by his wife, Kay, and their four children: Mark (Debbie) Claridge, Lisa (Scott) Bayer, Kristi Cook, Dayna (Jason) Lofgreen, 13 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Funeral services for Edward will be held Saturday, August 20, 2022, at the Solomonville Ward Chapel at 11:00 a.m. with a viewing at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at the Thatcher Cemetery.