Edward M. Lugo Sr.

August 27, 1953 – September 23, 2026

Edward M. Lugo, affectionately known as Eddie to his family and friends, was born on August 27, 1953, in San Jose, California, the fourth of ten children born to Charlie Lugo and Ramona Mesquita. He grew up in Phoenix alongside his siblings, Chucky, Manny, Louis, Frank, Greg, Ramon, Chris, Juanita, and Anna. Edward attended Lowell Elementary School and later Phoenix Union High School.

Edward was a man who loved people. He had a way of making everyone around him feel welcome, and he found great happiness in bringing people together. He met and married Anita Araiza when they were very young, and together they had four children: Denise, Edward Jr., Evonne, and Monica, who had a very special place in his heart.

Edward was truly the life of the party. He loved to entertain, and whenever family and friends gathered around him, his heart was full. His home was often filled with laughter, music, good food, and the people he loved most. For Edward, those moments together were some of life's greatest gifts.

Cooking was one of the many ways Edward showed his love. Whenever he cooked, he cooked as though he were feeding 50 people. He loved preparing hearty stews and Mexican favorites, including tacos, enchiladas, rice and beans, and so much more. There was always plenty of food—and always plenty of love—to go around.

Music brought Edward tremendous joy. James Brown was one of his favorites, and when Edward entertained, the music was often turned up loud. He loved having people around him, laughing, talking, eating, listening to music, and simply enjoying life together.

Edward loved his children with all of his heart. Each of his children carries special memories of their father—memories that will remain treasured throughout their lives. Although Edward and Anita's lives eventually took them in different directions, she remained an important part of his story. Anita was present during Edward's final arrangements and helped ensure that his last wishes were cared for.

Edward worked as a roofer in the construction industry, a career he truly enjoyed. He took pride in his work and in what he could accomplish with his own hands. He was a hardworking man who valued the work he did and the life he was able to provide for his family.

Over the years, Edward also came to know and love the Lord, and his faith became an important part of his life.

Edward also had a special love for animals and enjoyed having exotic animals around him, including dogs, iguanas and ducks just to name a few. He was known for having a green thumb, and it seemed that everything he touched would grow. He loved working in his garden and growing plants and vegetables, especially zucchini. Even while visiting one of his children in Hawaii, Edward spent time working in her garden, and before long, he had helped make it beautiful too.

Edward will be remembered for his tremendous love of family, his love of life, and his ability to find something to laugh about no matter what was happening around him. He had a gift for bringing people together and making them feel at home. Having the people he loved around him was where Edward was happiest.

His life touched many people, and the memories he created will continue to live on through each of his children, his family, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Edward's legacy is found in the laughter he shared, the meals he prepared, the gardens he nurtured, the music he enjoyed, and, most of all, the love he gave so freely to the people around him.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who knew him.

Services for Edward will be held on October 1 at Advantage Maryvale Funeral Home. He will be laid to rest by his children at a later date.