James L. Cordes Sr.

James L. Cordes Sr., born on September 13, 1943, in Long Branch, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at his home in Goodyear, Arizona, on April 8, 2026. A man whose life was a testament to tireless dedication and unwavering love for his family, James spent over six decades embracing the role of provider, protector, and beloved patriarch.

From a young age, James understood the value of hard work. As a teenager, he found employment at a laundry, a place that serendipitously led him to meet the love of his life, Margarita Ybarra. Their bond, forged in the simple rhythms of daily labor, blossomed into a marriage that spanned 55 remarkable years until Margarita's passing in 2018. Together, they built a life grounded in resilience and steadfast devotion.

In pursuit of new horizons, James relocated to Palm Springs, California, where his industrious spirit found outlet on a road crew. His commitment to community and providing for those he loved saw him branch into entrepreneurship with a towing business. Eventually, he embraced a career as a truck driver for the Teamsters, hauling wine from California—a vocation that carried him across the landscapes he so dearly cherished.

James was a man of many passions. An aficionado of old Country music, he found comfort and joy in melodies that echoed the stories of life’s enduring spirit. The color blue held a special place in his heart, and he delighted in traveling to be close to his family, mastering the balance between the roads he traveled and the roots he nurtured. Cars and baseball were among his treasured interests, symbols of freedom, precision, and camaraderie that echoed his own character.

Beyond his professional achievements and personal joys, James emerged as the neighborhood’s “go-to dad,” an all-around father figure who extended his care to children from broken homes, embodying a sanctuary of stability and kindness. His pride was evident in this role, a testament not only to his character but to the breadth of his compassion.

James is survived by his brother, Albert Corder of Lake Havasu City, Arizona; his children Ann Kudray (and son-in-law David), James Corder Jr. (with Vivian), and Edelia Rhoades (alongside Mathew); grandchildren Burt Kudray, Logan Corder, Joe Cook, Liam Rhoades, and Owen Rhoades; and great-grandchildren Kolton Kudray and Ryann Corder. The warm fabric of his family is further enriched by son-in-law David Kudray and Vivian Corder, who continue to uphold the legacy of a man who placed family at the center of all he did.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Margarita and his parents, Frank Corders Sr. and Ann Corder, leaving behind a heritage deeply intertwined with steadfast commitment and selfless love.

James L. Cordes Sr. lived a life etched in the quiet dignity of relentless work and open-hearted generosity. He leaves behind a world made better by his presence, a community strengthened by his care, and a family forever grateful for the gift of his love. His journey may have ended at home, peacefully and with natural grace, but the echoes of his life will resound in the hearts of all who knew him—forever the blue thread in the tapestry of every road traveled and every home embraced.