Sisto Lizarraga: Phoenix’s Unofficial Gravedigger and Community Icon

Uncovering the Legacy of Phoenix’s Unofficial Gravedigger

The bustling city of Phoenix, known for its vibrant culture and expansive growth, owes a part of its early history to the unassuming figure of Sisto Lizarraga. Long before the city became a metropolitan hub, Lizarraga played a crucial role in its development, not as a politician or entrepreneur, but as the city’s unofficial gravedigger.

Sisto Lizarraga, born in Mexico, made his way to Arizona in the 1880s after participating in the wars with Maximilian. He arrived at a time when Phoenix was in its infancy, having been incorporated only in 1881. In those early days, the city was grappling with the challenges of growth, including the need for a proper burial system. Lizarraga, a handyman by trade, took it upon himself to fill this void without any official title or compensation.

According to Steve Schumacher, the Phoenix Mayor’s Office official historian, Lizarraga was a man of many talents and responsibilities. He managed to support a large family of 11 children while also maintaining a job as a sexton at St. Mary’s Church, where he cared for the church grounds. Despite these commitments, he dedicated three decades to burying approximately 200 people each year, a testament to his community spirit and sense of duty.

In a conversation with Mark Brodie, Schumacher shared insights into Lizarraga’s life and the community-driven ethos of early Phoenix. “He was one of these people that everybody knew, everybody liked,” Schumacher noted. Lizarraga’s popularity was such that his death warranted a front-page article, an unusual honor for someone in his line of work.

Although Lizarraga was never officially recognized by the city for his gravedigging work, his contributions were deeply valued. When he passed away, the community he had served so diligently came together to ensure he was given a proper burial. As Schumacher explained, “People stepped up and they donated money to get a casket for him and pay for his cemetery plot.”

Lizarraga’s story sheds light on a time when Phoenix relied heavily on volunteer efforts to establish its infrastructure. The city’s first cemetery, located at the southwest corner of the townsite, was relocated to enhance the city’s image for newcomers. Lizarraga was instrumental in this transition, organizing volunteers to maintain the cemetery grounds, which speaks volumes about the communal spirit of the early settlers.

This history highlights the importance of citizen involvement in the city’s initial growth and the enduring impact of individuals like Sisto Lizarraga. His dedication is a poignant reminder of the role everyday people have played in shaping the cities we live in today.