Oscar Lizardi

Oscar Lizardi, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, respected educator, coach, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2026, at the age of 86, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

Born on March 17, 1940, in Nogales, Arizona, Oscar was a remarkable man whose life was defined by his deep Catholic faith, his love of family, his devotion to friends, and his unwavering commitment to the community he proudly called home.

A graduate of Nogales High School and the University of Arizona, Oscar dedicated his professional life to the Nogales Public School District. He began his career teaching mathematics at Nogales High School, where he also served as a guidance counselor and coached football and basketball. A gifted coach, teacher, and mentor, Oscar believed in the potential of young people and took great pride in helping them succeed, both in school and in life.

He later transitioned into school administration, eventually retiring as Associate Superintendent of the Nogales Public School District. Throughout his career, Oscar touched the lives of generations of students, colleagues, and families. His influence extended far beyond the classroom, athletic field, and school district. The admiration, gratitude, and affection expressed by so many former students and friends are a testament to the lasting difference he made in their lives.

Oscar cherished his friendships and possessed a wonderful sense of humor and a sharp wit. He loved sharing stories, laughter, and good times with the people around him. An avid golfer and lifelong Arizona Wildcat fan, he especially enjoyed playing cards, cheering on his beloved Wildcats, and spending time with family and friends. For Oscar, life’s greatest pleasures were often found in the simplest moments shared with those he loved.

At the center of his life was his beloved wife, Alice, with whom he shared 61 years of marriage. Together, they built a life grounded in love, faith, family, and devotion to one another. Nothing brought Oscar greater joy or pride than his family. He was immensely proud of his sons and grandchildren, and his love for them was evident to everyone who knew him.

A man of deep Catholic faith, Oscar lived his life guided by compassion, generosity, humility, and service to others. He cared deeply about his community and cherished the relationships he developed throughout his life. He had a genuine interest in people and their well-being, and he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, friendship, and love.

Oscar is survived by his beloved wife, Alice Lizardi; his sons, Oscar S. Lizardi (Kim) and Leonard Lizardi (Shelly); and his four cherished grandchildren, Jordan, Rylee, Alyssa, and Mathew Lizardi.

Oscar’s greatest legacy cannot be measured by his professional accomplishments or the years he lived, but by the profound difference he made in the lives of others. He was a man who gave generously of himself, loved deeply, and enriched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He lived a life in which he gave more than he received. And because of the way he lived, countless lives were made better.

Funeral Services

A funeral Mass celebrating the life of Oscar Lizardi will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church at 505 N. La Canada Drive in Green Valley, Arizona, the Rosary will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. A reception will follow in the parish hall. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather in prayer, remembrance, and celebration of Oscar’s remarkable life.

“Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

Matthew 25:21