Heidi Richelle Peay

Anyone who knew Heidi for a moment, or for a lifetime, would tell you that she had the most zest for life. Be it a single encounter or a large gathering, Heidi’s contagious energy, sense of humor, free spirit, and loving personality created such enjoyment that attracted many of her lifelong friends. Heidi passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 10, at the age of 58. She was a beloved daughter, mother, sister, and friend. Born May 18, 1962 in Paradise Valley, Arizona, Heidi was the third child of four to Dr. Richard and Edith Peay. Heidi graduated from Xavier College Preparatory in 1981 and received her degree in Dental Hygiene from Phoenix College. Heidi was an assistant for her father in high school but officially began her career in 1988, working first for her father’s dental practice and later, for her brother, who continued the family practice. Her glowing presence and loving care for her patients became known throughout the valley. Heidi truly loved her career of 32 years. Many patients would say that they “loved going to the dentist because they got to spend time with Heidi”; they shared stories with her, knowing she took to heart all the special details of their lives, creating bonds with them that would last generations. In 1991, Heidi gave birth to her only son, Jeffrey Knutsen. Raising Jeffrey was Heidi’s most precious accomplishment and a labor of love. He was the light of her life and Heidi was Jeffrey’s greatest champion; proudly sharing his accomplishments as a student at Brophy College Preparatory, at Arizona State University as a Barrett Honor’s engineering graduate, and now as a successful engineer. Jeffrey is a beautiful reflection of Heidi’s strength and compassion. Heidi was incredibly adored by her life partner, Mitchell Burns, who was her perfect match in all life’s aspects. They shared an undying love for over 20 years and together, they created the most inviting, heartwarming home for family and friends to engage in entertainment, immense laughter, and experience their passion for cooking the most delicious meals. Heidi and Mitchell shared in their love for the outdoors by camping and fishing in the White Mountains of Arizona and relaxing on the beaches of Carlsbad, California, and Puerto Penasco, Mexico. Year after year, she and Mitchell created beautiful memories with family and friends that will be cherished forever. Heidi had a remarkable gift of bringing incredible joy and laughter to the lives of so many people. She poured her heart into every person she had just met or knew for years. Heidi was always there to embrace you during life’s greatest and most difficult moments. Her unwavering love and devotion for her family and friends, and her extraordinary entertaining presence is how she will always be remembered. Heidi is survived by her love, Mitchell Burns, her wonderful son, Jeffrey Knutsen, her caring parents, Richard and Edith Peay, her older brothers Scott Peay and Eric Peay, her little sister, Elena Raymond, and their beautiful families. Special thank you to all for the loving support and prayers to the family during this difficult time.