George Gomez Sepulveda, Jr. went peacefully to heaven surrounded by family on July 31, 2016, after a courageous battle with illness. He was born in Oatman, Arizona, on March 4, 1937, to George and Elvira (Gomez) Sepulveda.George is survived by his wife of 52 years Mary Jessie (Gomez) Sepulveda; three children, Anna Smith (husband Jeff), C. Renee' Lorents, and George G. Sepulveda III (wife Tanya); eight grandchildren, Brianna (longtime partner Christian Tenev) and Troy Lorents, Lindsey and Kurt Smith, Vanessa Sepulveda and Nick, Victoria, and Jessica Klemme. He is also survived by one brother, Jack (wife Roberta) and three sisters, Modesta, Bertha and Martha and many brother- and sister-in-laws and nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by two brothers and four sisters.

George grew up in Superior, Ariz., graduating from Superior High School in 1956 and then enrolling in the United States Army.After spending time in the service; George attended Northern Arizona University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Business Education, and a master's degree in Spanish.His teaching career began in Jerome, Ariz., at Mingus Union HS in 1966; he continued teaching at Flagstaff Junior High School, where he spent the duration of his career.George became the head freshman football coach where he proudly held several undefeated seasons.He was a member of the Coordinating Council of Mexican American Affairs, which provided college scholarships to Hispanic students.After retiring from 27 years of teaching, George managed Calvary Catholic Cemetery for 15 years and finally retired at the age of 73.He began doing what he loved most, spending quality time with family and the outdoors.George was adamant about sharing his love for Flagstaff with anyone he encountered, no matter the season; he felt each one was beautiful.He was also known for being an avid Arizona Cardinals fan, however, would make certain to watch all Arizona team sports.He was a very giving man with great strength and integrity who will be missed tremendously.

Please join us for a celebration of George's life at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Chapel, on Friday, August 5, 2016, with a rosary at 9:00am, mass at 10:00am, and burial following at Calvary Catholic Cemetery.