George Junco

1956 - 2025

George Junco passed away peacefully on Sunday, the 16th of November, after a courageous battle with cancer. A beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, George loved life and radiated positivity. George never met a stranger and had an unparalleled zest for life. He maintained his characteristic mischievous grin right to the end, playfully teasing his family and nurses in his final days. George was born in Havana, Cuba, on May 6, 1956, the cherished middle child of Laudelina Caridad Montano and Rene Tomas Junco Garcia. The family immigrated initially to Caracas, Venezuela, and eventually to New York, New York, before settling in Dallas, Texas. As a child, George was known for his magnetic personality, strong work ethic and spirited nature, traits he carried on throughout his life. George was a life-long learner as evidenced by his many degrees. George graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Texas at Dallas. He also earned a Masters in Business Administration, Masters of Science and a Masters of Education from East Texas A&M. Though he initially built a business career in Finance and Accounting, he found his calling in Education. George was happiest as an educator, initially teaching 4th grade for ESL children at Back Elementary in Rowlett, Texas, to ultimately becoming a most beloved Principal at Story Elementary and then Cheatham Elementary, both in Allen, Texas. He was loved by his teachers, students and parents alike and was truly happiest in the classroom. George is survived by his wife of 39 years, Tambri Junco, who selflessly took the role of chief nurse and caregiver as he valiantly fought his cancer diagnosis. A chance meeting on a cruise turned into four decades of bliss with Tambri, whether it was dancing on a Friday night at home, cooking one of his famous Cuban meals or spending time on the lake in Kentucky, he never wanted to leave Tambri's side. Tambri and George also loved the ocean and scuba diving, completing over 500 dives together around the world. George is also survived by his daughter, Kristy Junco Bradshaw (Chris); his grandchildren, Preston Bradshaw, Pierce Bradshaw and Camilla Bradshaw; his brother, Rene Junco (Carol); his sister, Mary Matallana (Ernie); and his former wife, Maritza Withrow (Steve). George was preceded in death by his parents, Laudelina and Rene Junco. Friends are invited to a Celebration of Life from 1 o'clock to 3 o'clock in the afternoon on Saturday, November 22nd, at The Briar Club, 2603 Timmons Lane in Houston. In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed in George's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a local animal shelter of your choice or any charity that is meaningful to you. The family would like to recognize MD Anderson Cancer Center for their care, most especially Dr. Eric K. Singhi, who showed the utmost respect and compassion to George. Because of Dr. Singhi and his team, George was able to spend valuable months with his family.