James Ramirez, 76, an Eloy native and resident, died July 22, 2009 at Springdale West Healthcare in Mesa.Visitation began at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. Helen of the Cross Catholic Church, with rosary recited at 10:30. Funeral Mass was celebrated at 11 by the Rev. Juan Carlos Aguirre. Burial was in Eloy Memorial Park.Mr. Ramirez was born Nov. 9, 1932 and was a son of Joe E. and Mercedes Ramirez. He led a very religious life for 20 years, joining a monastery and becoming a monk. Later, he became a driver for Avis and an auto auction in Phoenix and enjoyed driving cars around the United States.Survivors include a sister, Mary Lou Ramirez of Eloy.J. Warren Funeral Services, Valley Chapel was in charge of arrangements.
