Danny Heredia, Sr.
Danny Lee Heredia, Sr. passed away on October 8, 2025, at the Carl T. Hayden Veterans Administration Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of 78.
He was born in Glendale, Arizona, on August 13, 1947, the son of Gasper Heredia and Victoria Valencia Heredia.
Mr. Heredia married Lori on July 24, 1992, in Yuma, Arizona. He is survived by his children: Danny Heredia, Jr. (Nansy) of Yuma; Haddie Jongema (Michael) of Gilbert; Hannah Welch (Tom) of Phoenix; and Kyle Heredia (engaged to Mayra Sanchez) of Prescott; along with several grandchildren who brought him great joy.
He volunteered to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps and, after 30 years of honorable service, retired at the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant. During his distinguished career, he served in Force Recon, as a Machine Gunner, and in Crash Fire Rescue emergency services. He received numerous military decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Navy Achievement Medal, as well as additional Department of Defense and Emergency Services honors. He was a Vietnam veteran and a life member of the Disabled American Veterans.
Danny was a man of quiet strength and steady conviction – a presence that carried weight even when he didn’t say a word. He led with calm authority, deep values, and a sharp sense of humor that kept those around him laughing through anything. He showed his love by showing up – supporting, teaching, and cheering on the people he cared about, always with humility, humor, and endless heart. He lived with grace, loyalty, and humility, and found purpose in letting people be who they were while always being the grounding force behind them.
He was baptized in the Catholic faith and had a lifelong love of sports and western movies. He was loyal to his family, devoted to his country, and forever connected to the band of brothers he served beside in Vietnam.
Those who knew him best described him as humble and steady – “an umpire who never lost a game.”
Interment for Danny Lee Heredia, Sr. took place at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, October 28, at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix, with the Rev. Dr. Paul Soderquist officiating. Arrangements were handled by Phoenix Funeral & Cremation Services.