Myrtle S. Bazzell

Myrtle Griffin Bazzell, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on June 29, 2026, at the age of 93. She was born on January 16, 1933, and lived a life defined by faith, devotion to her family, and service to others.

Myrtle is survived by her son, Kenneth Bazzell; her daughter-in-law, Geri Bazzell, widow of her late son, David Bazzell; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; her sister, Jimmie Lou Leeds, and brother-in-law, Robert Leeds; and her sister-in-law, Dianne Griffin, widow of her late brother, C.L. Griffin. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, First Sergeant C.A. Bazzell, U.S. Marine Corps; her son, David Bazzell; and her brothers, Reggie Griffin and C.L. Griffin.

As the eldest of her siblings, Myrtle helped guide and care for her younger brothers and sisters during their early years, a role she embraced with love and one that remained a source of joy throughout her life. She later met and married a young Marine, embarking on a life of faith, resilience, and adventure as a military wife. Together they raised their family through the challenges and sacrifices of his service during the Vietnam War, forming lifelong friendships wherever military life took them.

After settling in Yuma, Myrtle became a faithful and devoted member of Immanuel Southern Baptist Church. She generously shared her love for the Lord by teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School for many years, touching the lives of countless children and families through her kindness, patience, and steadfast faith.

In her later years, Myrtle found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved reading, working word puzzles, and faithfully cheering on her favorite teams: the Los Angeles Dodgers, the University of Arizona Wildcats men's basketball team, and the New Orleans Pelicans. Her quiet strength, gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and enduring love for her family will be remembered always.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Johnson Mortuary, 1415 S. First Avenue, Yuma, Arizona.

A service will be held on Saturday, July 11, at 8:00 a.m. at Immanuel Southern Baptist Church, 1000 E. 24th Street, Yuma, Arizona, followed by a brief graveside service at 10:00 a.m. at Desert Lawn Memorial Park in Yuma.

Myrtle's legacy is one of unwavering faith, selfless love, and quiet strength. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but her example and the memories she leaves behind will continue to bless generations to come.