Michael Anthony Gomez

Michael Anthony Gomez

1923 - 2025

Michael Anthony Gomez lived a long and fulfilling life filled with love, laughter, and devotion to his family. On September 8, 2025, at the age of 102, he passed away peacefully at home.

Michael was born May 20, 1923, in San Antonio, Texas, to George and Helen (Miller) Gomez. The eldest of five children, he grew up on a small ranch with his two brothers and two sisters. Together they caused mischief with neighbors, tended the family homestead, and enjoyed their mother’s homemade baked goods.

Michael’s father was a railroad worker and as a young boy, Michael often begged to join him at the tracks. By his teenage years he managed to land a job there, helping to support the family. Michael loved working alongside his father at the tracks. At 18, tragedy struck when his father was drafted for military service in World War II and never returned home. Michael longed to enlist after his father’s untimely passing but was unable to serve. Instead, he became a provider for his mother and siblings.

In 1942, at the age of 19, Michael was offered a job opportunity that required a move to Cincinnati, Ohio. Though it meant leaving his family, he accepted and began work as a railroad engineer for Union Terminal. Michael rented a modest one-bedroom apartment and always put work first, but he also was an avid fan of jazz, blues, and swing, often attending jazz clubs and live music venues with his best friend, Richard Davis.

Michael excelled in his career, where he met his future wife, Evelyn, a mechanic at Union Terminal while men were being sent off to war. Their love blossomed over music, chili spaghetti, and quiet strolls amidst the uncertainty of the 1940s. He found part of himself that had been lost when his father passed, along with a new beginning. Together, they saved to buy their first home. Michael rose through the ranks at Union Terminal, becoming a Trainmaster and eventually Division Superintendent. It was in his proud career in locomotives that he was able to honor his father and build the life of Evelyn’s dreams.

With Michael’s steadfast work, Evelyn was able to open a bridal business of her own. Michael, often described as “having the biggest smile on his face,” was immensely proud in both his work and his growing family. He and Evelyn were blessed with five children- two sons and three daughters- and a bustling household filled with love, laughter, and loyalty. Michael’s unwavering dedication to Evelyn became an inspiration for his children, all of whom are now happily married.

Michael was a devoted husband, father, brother, son, teacher, coach, mentor, and friend. After 60 years of marriage, Evelyn’s passing left a deep sadness in Michael’s heart. In his later years, he faced dementia with the same quiet dignity he carried throughout his life. Even then, he found joy in music, peaceful walks, and his favorite dish, chili spaghetti, while reflecting on memories of his beloved wife and father.

Michael leaves behind a legacy of pride and love. He is survived by his children: Edward and his wife Minny (Campbell) Gomez; Darlene and her husband Joseph Wright; Sidney and her husband Austin Brown; Pamela and her husband Carl Gibson. He is also survived by nine grandchildren- Payton, Theresa, Michael, Destiny, Emma, Jonathan, Nicholas, Sofia, and Daniel- as well as his brother Xavier Gomez; his sister Nina and her husband Eddie Smith; nephew Sam Gomez, niece Jennifer Smith, nephew Jonah Smith, and nephew Alex Smith.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Evelyn Gomez; parents George and Helen Gomez; siblings Hugo and Olivia Gomez; and his best friend, Richard Davis.

Michael taught us that mourning those we lose is not a weakness, but a way to honor our connections. That truth, in itself, is what makes us so deeply human. On every rainy day, with every faint breeze, and when gathered at dinner with loved ones, we will feel his hand steadying the moment.

Mr. Gomez is forever loved, and his many stories will be carried down for generations. A celebration of life with friends and family will be held at Elizabeth Park on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Chili spaghetti and jazz music will be featured in his honor. The family requests that guests wear casual clothing, as Michael would want everyone to feel right at home.

Memorial donations can be made to Elizabeth Alzheimer’s Foundation to honor Michael’s life.

To offer your condolences or share a memory, please visit www.elizabethobituaries.com

Written With Dignity - Elizabeth Obituaries

September 10, 2025