Anthony N. Beltran

Anthony Natalicio Beltran, 85 of Phoenix, AZ passed away peacefully on October 27, 2023 surrounded by his beloved family.

Lovingly known as Tony, Chuma or Tata; he was preceded in death by his father, Natalicio, his mother, Mary, and sister Margaret (Peggy) Draime. He leaves behind his loving wife Patricia (Patsy); and his children Geri, Berni DeLeon (Jesse), Albert, Cathy Reeves (John), Liz, Michael, Theresa, and Chris (Jessie). Tony also leaves behind his sister Mary Enriquez along with 12 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, many relatives, and friends who loved and respected him. 

Tony was born August 17, 1938, in Flagstaff, Arizona, and moved to Phoenix in 1949. Tony married Patricia on November 18, 1962, and went on to have eight beautiful children.

Tony joined the Army National Guard between his junior and senior years of high school, with the help and signature of his mother Mary. He eventually joined the Arizona Air National Guard and spent the next 37 years proudly serving his country. By the time he retired, Tony was a Command Chief Master Sergeant / Senior Enlisted Advisor. He also became head of the Hispanic Employment Program during his time with the Guard, which was the first of its kind at the 161st Air Refueling Wing and dealt with the recruiting and retaining of Hispanics in the Air Guard. Tony also mentored newcomers, counseled them, and helped them get ahead. He was especially concerned with helping women get ahead in their profession; mentoring several throughout his time with the Guard. 

During his 28 years with the Air National Guard, Tony became involved with several Hispanic organizations such as IMAGE, La Raza, Chicanos Por la Causa, and Friendly House.  
Tony was ordained as a Deacon in the Catholic Church in May of 1977. Over the next 43 years, he baptized countless babies, blessed houses, officiated quinces, weddings and funerals, and assisted with mass at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church every Sunday. 

Tony spent his years after retirement officiating services, driving his grandchildren to and from school, reading the paper (particularly the funny’s and politics), buying lottery tickets, taking daily trips to Fry’s, and going to Garcia’s on Saturday nights. His family and friends remember him fondly; as a beacon of love, patience, kindness, and exemplary character. He will be missed forever, and his memory will live on with every life he touched. 

Tony’s services will be held Tuesday, November 7th at Ss.  Simon and Jude Cathedral, 6351 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85017. The viewing will be held at 9:30 A.M., rosary at 10:30 A.M., and Mass at 11A.M. 

He will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery at 9925 W. Thomas Road, Avondale, AZ 85392, following the services.