Jefferson Joe Begay

Jefferson Joe Begay died, unexpectedly, late Thursday night, August 25, 2011 at the Trillium Hospital in Mesa, Maricopa County, Arizona following a short illness. He was 36 years old. Jefferson, who was affectionately known as Jeff, was born on April 6, 1975 in Keams Canyon, Navajo County, Arizona to Allen Joe and Peggy (James) Begay. Jeff was a loving and devoted to his parents. When he was able, Jeff was gainfully employed as a skilled roofer for many years. He also was a singer in a Pow-Wow group and following his disability, he enjoyed doing beadwork. He always was there for his family to help them in any way that he could and found special friends amongst his own nieces and nephews, as they loved him so much. He had a terrific sense of humor and had a knack for making everyone laugh when they were feeling down. His friends called him "Big Chief." Jeff is survived by his brothers: Quincy Joe Begay, Cotton Lee Nelson, Vernon K. Nelson, Jr., all of Jeddito, Arizona; sisters: Jovita Cromwell, Shirlinda Begay both of Jeddito, Arizona; his parents: Allen Joe Begay and Peggy James Begay both of Jeddito, Arizona; many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and all of his in-laws. He loved them all so much and they in return, loved him back. A graveside service will begin 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at the Jeddito Community Cemetery under the watchful care of Owens Livingston Mortuary - Holbrook Chapel. Jeff's family is so grateful to all who have expressed their sympathies to them through thought and deed and are especially thankful for all the prayers offered up in their behalf during their difficult season.