Guillermo “Junior” “Billy” Romo Chavez

Guillermo Romo Chavez, affectionately known to many as “Junior” or “Billy,” passed away peacefully in Tucson, Arizona, on September 8, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born in Sonora, Arizona, and raised in Winkelman, Arizona, Billy remained deeply connected to the community and to the many people who knew and loved him throughout his life. He was a hardworking man who took pride in providing for his family and serving his community. He first worked for the Hayden-Winkelman School District as a bus driver and in maintenance before later working as a Special Oiler at the Kennecott/ASARCO mine. He was also a trained and certified butcher.

Billy was a man who knew how to enjoy life. He loved hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time outdoors, especially out in the hills. He had a genuine curiosity and passion for automobile mechanics and could often be found learning about, working on, or simply talking about cars. He was also an avid coin collector, a hobby that reflected his appreciation for history, discovery, and the stories behind the coins he collected. Many friends knew him from the time he spent visiting and hanging out at Eddie’s Tire Shop, where he enjoyed good conversation, good company, and sharing his knowledge of automobiles.

In keeping with Billy’s unique sense of humor, anyone needing help with their vehicle is encouraged to contact Eddie’s Tire Shop at 520-356-6400 for all of their automotive needs. Billy would surely have approved of the referral (and probably had a few opinions about the repair as well).

Billy was also a wonderful cook who loved preparing authentic Mexican dishes and never seemed to turn down Chinese food. He enjoyed the music of the 1950s and 1960s and had a special place in his heart for dogs. He was a proud supporter of Hayden High School and loved attending and cheering on the Hayden Lobos. He was also a devoted fan of the University of Arizona Wildcats, faithfully following Arizona softball, football, and basketball.

Above all, Billy loved his family and friends. He was kind, generous, caring, and always ready with a joke or a laugh. His sense of humor and ability to make people smile will be remembered by all who knew him. He especially cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren, who brought him tremendous joy and pride.

Billy was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

He is survived by his daughter, Charlotte McCutcheon, her husband, Adam, and their daughter, Abby McCutcheon; his son, Richard Chavez, and his sons, Noah Chavez and Cooper Chavez; his sisters, Gloria Valdez and her husband, Anselmo, Isabel Bufanda and her husband, Robert, and Valerie Chavez; as well as numerous extended family, friends, and loved ones who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Guillermo R. Chavez, Sr. and Cruzita C. Chavez; his sister, Ruby Alderete; and his brother, Robert “Bobby” Chavez, Sr.

Billy leaves behind a lifetime of memories filled with family, friendship, laughter, good food, the outdoors, sports, cars, and countless stories. He will be deeply missed by those who had the privilege of knowing him.