SACATON - Clarence Franklin Baptisto, 79, of Sacaton died peacefully on Oct. 17, 2016.Mr. Baptisto, also known as Budgie, was born on July 19, 1937, in Sacaton to Clarence and Cora Baptisto. A "man after God’s own heart," he was a lifelong member of First Pima Baptist Church, where he was saved and brought into the fellowship of Jesus Christ at a young age.He made it a point to spend time with God and dedicated his life to serving others as Christ did. He was a law enforcement officer, a security supervisor for Gila River Casinos and a former Tribal Council member. When he was not serving the public, he was busy creating beautiful art with his God-given talents. Survivors include a sister, Doris Peters of Sacaton; two daughters, Cynthia Baptisto and Delores Tate of Sacaton; a son, Micah Baptisto of Sacaton; and nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Laddie Baptisto.The family will receive friends at the District 3 Governance Center, where Mr. Baptisto will lie in state from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday. The funeral will be at 8 a.m. Saturday at First Pima Baptist Church, with Pastor Eric Gibbs officiating. Burial will be in East Sacaton Cemetery. J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
