Roy Daniel Campbell

Roy was born on July 16, 1944 in Camden, NJ, the son of the last Anna (Marz) and James Campbell.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 50 years, Catherine (Murray); two children Christopher (Heather) Campbell, Sheila Sulwer (Jacob) and bonus daughter, Jenn Sullivan; four grandchildren, Braydon, Declan, Emma and Anna; three step grandchildren, Belle, Hayden and Kaitlyn. Roy is survived by two brothers, John (Donald) and Daniel and lots of nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his sister Maryann Overton and brother James.

Roy proudly served with distinction in the United States Navy aboard the USS Kearsarge during the Vietnam War. Upon his return, he entered into a 40-year career as a tractor-trailer driver. Roy took great pride as a skilled, accident free driver for the Philadelphia Inquirer, Standard Brands and Triangle Publications.

He married the loved of his life, Cathy, in 1973. The family grew and blossomed in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Roy was active in coaching youth sports, scouting, church fellowship and community service. No neighborhood party would be complete unless Roy walked through the door in his Mr. Peanut Costume.

They transplanted to Arizona to enjoy their new roles as grandparents, Nana and PopPop. Roy and Cathy found lifelong friendships within their new community. Roy filled in his free time as a food critic with the “Burger Boys”, woodworking and as a bocce player and a master of Hand and Foot. Mr. Peanut could also be known to make a cameo at neighborhood popcorn parties.

Each summer he would spend his time enjoying the New Jersey shore. He loved lazy afternoons on the beach, evenings spent laughing and telling stories by the campfire amongst friends and family, savoring freshly caught seafood and providing unsolicited safe driving tips.

He carried the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles in his heart and was an avid model train collector. He was also a kidney transplant recipient and received this gift of life from his loving daughter-in-law, Heather.

In remembering Roy, we celebrate a life well lived and a legacy of love, adventure and friendship. His zest for life and genuine, affable nature made a friend to everyone he met. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Family and Friends are invited to attend Roy’s celebration of life on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at 10:00 am at Surprise Funeral Care 16063 W Bell Rd, Surprise, Arizona. A memorial service will occur in July of 2024 in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania at a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either Small Steps in Speech or Mayo Clinic.