Ruth Mendez

Ruth “Cookie” Mendez, 61, passed away peacefully at home on Father’s Day, June 21, 2026, surrounded with love by her husband, children, and grandchildren at her home in Mesa, Arizona.

Born on July 26, 1964, to Robert and Rosemary. The oldest sibling of 5, born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona.

Married on November 14th, 1981, to her husband, Andrew, of 44 years. They later moved and settled in Mesa, Arizona, where they raised their 4 children and grandchildren.

She was a faithful employee at Banner Desert Hospital for nearly 28 years. There, she made a career for herself and met lots of friends along the way.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 44 years, Andrew Mendez; her children, Reyna Martinez (Matt Martinez), Andrew Mendez (Debbie Mendez), Daniel Mendez (Selva Mendez), and Anthony Mendez (Raenyce Mendez); her grandsons, Matthew, Andrew, Aaron, Marcus, Angel, Adrian, Marcellus, Ayden, Alijah, Alonzo, Amais; her granddaughters, Sarah, Neriah, and Avalyn; her mother, Rosemary Badilla; her brothers, Robert, Frankie, and Efren; and her sister, Christina. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Badilla, and her beloved grandparents.

A devoted and faithful wife, a loving and nurturing mother and grandmother, Cookie adored being around her grandkids; they were the light of her life. Her smile and laughter touched all who knew her. She was generous and loved to give gifts. Shopping and decorating were her favorite pastimes. She loved Jesus and worship music gave her peace. Cookie is deeply missed by family, friends, coworkers, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.