Flags to be flown at half-staff

WIINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer issued a proclamation on Oct. 20, in honor of former Navajo Nation lawmaker, chapter official, and school board official Samuel Yazzie, who passed away at the age of 75. He was born in Keams Canyon, Ariz., and resided with his family in Lukachukai, Ariz., all his life.

“His teachings and contributions to the Navajo Nation will forever be remembered and cherished,” Nez said

Yazzie was Tó’aheedlíinii (Water Flows Together) and born for Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan). He served four terms as a Council Delegate with the 16th Navajo Nation Council from 1987-1991, the 17th Navajo Nation Council  from 1992-1995, the 18th Navajo Nation Council from 1996-1999, and the 19th Navajo Nation Council from 2000-2003. He also served as Lukachukai Chapter President for 10 years, a peacemaker for Chinle Judicial Court, and a School Board President for Lukachukai Community School.

“Honorable Samuel Yazzie leaves behind a lasting legacy for his family, the Navajo people, and the communities he represented and served for many years. We owe a debt of gratitude to him and his loved ones for his years of service, dedication, and compassion. We pray for him and his family at this time,” Vice President Lizer said

Council Delegate Carl Slater, who represents the Lukachukai community as a member of the 24th Navajo Nation Council, recalled Honorable Samuel Yazzie as a loving and inspirational leader who devoted his life to public service. He added that Yazzie played an instrumental role in the development of the new Lukachukai Community School that is currently being constructed.

“Mr. Yazzie exemplified the highest model of selfless leadership. He was a traditional man who lived his values. May his humble leadership be an inspiration to us all,”  Delegate Slater said.

Yazzie is survived by his wife of 54 years, Jean Chee Yazzie, his five children, Delbert, Stanley, Manuel, Iris, and Heather Yazzie, and his 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

The proclamation orders all flags on the Navajo Nation to be flown at half-staff in honor and memory of Samuel Yazzie on Oct. 21. His funeral service is scheduled for Oct. 21.