Joseph Anthony Morales

Joseph Anthony Morales, born January 24, 1953, in Clifton, Arizona, passed away peacefully and entered eternal rest in heaven, reunited with his beloved son Joseph, his parents Joe and Alice Morales, and his siblings Kathy and Alex. A devoted family man, athlete, and faithful Catholic, Joe lived a life of strength, hard work, and love for those around him.

Raised in Clifton, Joe graduated from Clifton High School in 1971, where he excelled as an all-around athlete. He earned All-Conference honors in football offense during his junior and senior years and was named All-State in baseball as a sophomore. His competitive spirit carried into adulthood as an avid weightlifter and powerlifter, breaking seven world records in bench press across four different federations.

Joe’s professional life was marked by dedication and skill. From 1973 to 1983, he worked as a Journeyman sheet metal mechanic at Phelps Dodge. He later joined Arizona Public Service (APS) in 1984, serving as a Senior Nuclear Operator until his retirement in 2017. His strong work ethic was a lesson he instilled in his four sons: Joseph, Salvador, Edmund, and Armand, teaching them that hard work brings rewards.

On September 11, 1976, Joe married the love of his life, Gloria, and together they built a life filled with love and adventure, sharing 49 cherished years of marriage. Joe cherished his family, raising his sons in Joseph City and later Goodyear, Arizona. A passionate outdoorsman, he found joy in hunting, fishing, and camping in the White Mountains, creating lasting memories with his loved ones. His faith in God and lifelong commitment to the Catholic Church guided his life and provided him strength.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria; his sons, Salvador (Heather), Edmund, and Armand; his grandchildren Gabriel, Isabel, Lucas and Brody; his brother, David; and a legacy of love, resilience, and faith.

Joe’s strength and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Services will be Saturday, September 20, with a Viewing at 9:00 a.m., Rosary recited at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Clifton, Arizona. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Clifton, AZ. The family will host a lunch immediately following the interment at the Clifton Social Club.