Leon Gomez, a Flagstaff native, devoted public educator, and friend to many, passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 81. Leon bravely faced the challenges of Parkinson's disease for 12 years. Despite his health, Leon continued to live his life, traveling to many countries, tinkering in his garage and enjoying popcorn and a cold beer with friends and family.

Leon, a Navy veteran served six years in the military, including assignments on the USS Richard B. Anderson and Midway Island during the Vietnam War. After his service, Leon earned his teaching degree from Northern Arizona University. He taught high school courses in accounting and business and later became a Guidance Counselor with Flagstaff Public Schools. After retiring from Flagstaff High School, his alma mater (1962), Leon served as a Guidance Counselor for Greyhills Academy in Tuba City for several years. His commitment to educating and helping others has impacted the lives of many and he will fondly be remembered as Mr. Gomez.

He is survived by his wife, Thelma.  Children, Esteban (Kim), Christina Avelar, Daniel (Heather) and Gabriel (Melissa). Stepdaughter Lorizelda (Danny) Stoeller, plus twelve grandchildren.  Sisters, Concha Bustamante, Eleonor Espinoza, Elena Mendoza, Petra Orders, Maria (Henry) Cancino, Mary Jesse Sepulveda, Patricia Flores and brother Frank Gomez. He was also blessed with many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by infant daughter, Christina Marie. Parents Elvira and Leon Corona Gomez. Brothers Jimmy, David and Johnny Gomez, sister Cecilia Baca, and stepson SFC Jaime E. Contreras, Jr.

A viewing will take place on March 28, 2025, at Lozano's Flagstaff Mortuary, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., 2545 North Fourth Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86004.Rosary and mass will take place at 10:00 a.m., March 31, 2025, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 224 S. Kendrick Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.  Inurnment will be at Calvary Cemetery, 201 W. University Drive, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.