Jan. 25, 1952-Oct. 15, 2022

Joel Perez-Ayala, age 70, passed away Oct. 15, 2022. He was born Jan. 25, 1952, in San Diego, Guanajuato, Mexico, to Francisco Perez and Soledad Perez-Ayala.  

Joel spent his early years in Mexico. At the age of 15, Joel immigrated to the U.S and lived in Chicago, Illinois, with his uncle. He also spent time living in California and Nevada before settling in St. George in the early 2000s. As a young adult, Joel played baseball. This was a sport he enjoyed throughout the remainder of his life. Joel worked hard and earned a living as a welder. He enjoyed gardening, fishing and being outdoors.    

Joel is survived by his children Briana Camargo (David), Celina Perez (Rick Diaz), Francisco Perez (Tara De Witt), Adrian Perez and Mauricio Perez (Christie); grandchildren Marina McSeaton, Davey Camargo, Ricki Diaz, Amelie Diaz, Rowyn Rose, Lola Lynn De Witt and Luna Nova J Perez. He is also survived by brothers Ruben Perez and Lionel Perez and sisters Carolina Perez, and Graciela Rodriguez.  

A funeral service will be held Saturday, Nov. 5, at 11 a.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, Utah. 

Viewings will be held Friday, Nov. 4, 6-8 p.m., and again Saturday, Nov. 5, prior to services, 9:30-10:45 a.m.  

Interment will Be in the Washington City Cemetery.  

Click here to view services remotely.

The Perez family wishes to thank doctors Ned Williams and Zachary Reese of St George Regional Intermountain Cancer Center and nurses Kay Merz, Trinity Humphreys and Paula Vu of Suntree Home Health and Hospice for the loving care given to their dad throughout his cancer treatment.  

Arrangements are under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S Bluff St., St. George, 435-673-2454. Family and friends are invited to sign Joel’s online guest book.