Todd Sean Elias Jr.

Todd Sean Elias Jr., 31, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away on December 1st, 2021. He was born in Glendale, Arizona on July 15, 1990. Todd graduated from Red Mountain High School in 2008. Todd had a deep passion for sports. He followed the Arizona Cardinals, Phoenix Coyotes, and the Phoenix Suns with a devotion like no other. As a young child he enjoyed playing hockey and soccer and he had an innate ability to see the game play out before him. He showed love and compassion for the people that he loved and his connection with the dogs he cherished was profound. As an adult, he loved having philosophical (deep dive) conversations and was passionate about learning new ideas and the perspectives of others. He was a thoughtful and bright young man who enjoyed researching and expanding his knowledge of the sciences, religions, and the expansiveness of the universe. When delivered, his smile would light your soul with love and acceptance. The following is a quote that Todd cherished; “Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the single candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.” -Buddha

He is survived by his mother, Doneitta Layeux (Tracey Sampson); his father, Todd Sean Elias Sr. (Heather); sister, Cassie Lynn Elias (Brandon Thorpe); his beloved daughter RyLan Rose Zaleski; grandparents, Barbara Hance, Ann Cava, Bill & Ruth Elias, and Patrick & Gertie Dugan; nieces, June & Lily Thorpe; nephew, Tate Thorpe; and multitudes of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Preceded in death by grandparents, John Hance, John Layeux, and great grandparents Anthony and Wanda Cava; his godmother, Angela Layeux; uncle, John Waldrop Jr.; cousin, Adam Layuex; and cousin Victoria Kravec.

Family and Friends,

Please join us Friday December 10th, 2021 to celebrate the joy,love, laughter, and memories we shared with Todd. It was TJ’s expressed wish that his life be celebrated, not mourned.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.valleyofthesunfuneralhome.com for the Elias family.