Lazaro G. “Joe” Romero, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and unwavering devotion to family and community that touched countless lives.

Lazaro was born on August 30, 1940, on Convent Street to Luis M. Romero and Soledad (Gallardo) Romero. As the eldest of four children, he was raised in a close-knit family where strong values, faith, and a deep sense of responsibility were instilled in him from an early age—values that guided him throughout his life. He was a graduate from Tucson High School.

He began developing his strong work ethic at just eight years old with a paper route. Over the years, Lazaro worked at several places throughout Tucson, including Durso’s Flower Shop on Speedway Boulevard, Langer’s Flower Shop, Western Market on Stone Avenue, the City of Tucson, the Tucson Newspaper, and Magma BHP Copper Mine, where he eventually retired.

Even in retirement, Lazaro’s commitment to serving others never wavered. He worked with the Sunnyside School District in custodial services and later became a bus monitor at Safford Jr. High and a crossing guard for the Tucson Unified School District at Brichta Elementary School. In this role, he became a familiar and cherished presence in the community—always ready with a warm smile, a friendly greeting, and meaningful conversation. Lazaro made many long lasting friendships which he cherished.

Lazaro shared 61 beautiful years of marriage with the love of his life, Carolina (Nina) Polanco Romero. Together, they built a family rooted in faith, love, and laughter. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol; his children, Daniel (Suezette), Stephen (Mark), and Rosanna (Frank) Gaxiola; and his cherished grandchildren, Daniel (Desirae), Angelica (Ariel), Aundre (Jaylynn), Diego, Francisca, Gabriela, Gianna, and Lianna. He also leaves behind his beloved great-grandchildren: Aleena, Aaliyah, Dominic, Zantiel, Zeilani, Camila, and Aundre Jr., along with a treasured grand-puppy, Pebbles.

He is also survived by his siblings, his brother, Stephen (Cecilia), his sister, Lucretia (Robert), his sister-in-law Pauline, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Lazaro had a special way of making every member of his extended family feel valued and loved. He treated his nieces and nephews as his own and was always present for life’s important moments.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Luis M. and Soledad G. Romero, and his brother, Louis G. Romero.

Lazaro was known as a true “people person.” Though he had few hobbies, his greatest joy came from connecting with others—sharing stories, telling jokes, and playing lighthearted tricks on family and friends. His Catholic faith was central to his life and remained a guiding force in all he did.

He was a proud and dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus Council 1200 and Assembly 16, serving faithfully for 56 years, including 43 years as a Fourth Degree member.

Lazaro served as an usher at St. Margaret’s, Holy Family, and Santa Cruz Churches, where he warmly welcomed everyone who came through the doors. He also helped distribute food and clothing with Saint Vincent de Paul at Holy Family and Santa Cruz churches, always giving his time to support those in need.

One of Lazaro’s favorite childhood memories was sitting outside his grandmother’s grocery store—Romero’s Grocery Store—on Convent Street, where he would talk with a neighbor, Mr. Whitaker, who affectionately called him “Barber Boy,” a playful reference to his father and grandfather, both barbers. This story reflected his lifelong love of storytelling and meaningful connection.

Lazaro was also known for his many sayings, the most cherished being “Con Favor de Dios” (“God Willing”), a phrase that continues to resonate deeply with his family.

He will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him. His kindness, humor, and warm spirit will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

The family of Lazaro would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Haven Hospice, especially his nurse, Jennifer Ochoa, whose compassion, kindness, and dedicated care brought comfort during a difficult time. From the very beginning, she treated Lazaro and his loved ones with warmth and respect, quickly becoming like a member of the family. Her support and presence will always be deeply appreciated and remembered.

“Con El Favor de Dios”

Pallbearers:

Daniel L. Romero Jr.

Aundre J. Romero

Ariel Bojorquez

Diego R. Gaxiola

Edward Schubert

Louis A. Romero

Honorary Pallbearers:

Dominic D. Romero

Zantiel A. Bojorquez

Aundre S. Romero Jr.