Johnny Gomez

Juan C. Gomez, known by all as Johnny, of Safford and a United States Army veteran, entered into rest Saturday, September 6, 2025, at his residence with his wife of 72 years, Emma, and his family at his bedside. Johnny was 92.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Johnny will be celebrated Friday, September 19, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church by Rev. Benjamin Aguilar.
A rosary and prayers will be offered Friday, September 19, 2025, at 11:30 a.m., at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.
Johnny's eulogy will be shared on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., also at the church.
A gathering and meal for family and friends will follow all services in the St. Rose of Lima Bereavement Hall.
The Life and Legacy of Juan C. Gomez
Juan C. Gomez, affectionately known as Johnny, was born in Clifton, Arizona, on May 3, 1933, to Manuel and Guadalupe Gomez. Johnny attended Clifton Schools until his freshman year, at which point he made the difficult decision to leave school and help his brother Jimmy support their mother after the passing of their father. This early responsibility marked the beginning of Johnny's lifelong commitment to family and hard work.
During his youth, Johnny served as an Altar boy at Sacred Heart Parish in Clifton. His dedication was recognized with the Altar Dai metal award from the Boy Scouts of America, making him the first recipient in Clifton. Johnny contributed to his community in various ways, working at the local Ice Plant, delivering ice and liquor to businesses, and selling the Copper Era newspaper door-to-door for 10 cents. When offered a bicycle for $50 to help with his newspaper deliveries, Johnny's mother agreed to the purchase, but only after he had paid it off in full testament to the values of responsibility and integrity instilled in him from a young age.
At age 14, Johnny expressed a desire to join the Navy, but his mother refused to sign the necessary paperwork, postponing his military aspirations. In 1951, Johnny met Emma, and their love led to marriage in May 8,1953. That same year, Johnny began working for Phelps Dodge, and in 1952, he joined the Army during the Korean War. Although he did not serve overseas, Johnny was stationed in Washington, where he dutifully served his country.
Johnny became a member of the Benificio Proprio Club in 1960, later serving as a collector in 1982 and earning the status of lifetime member. He pursued further education through "Trade School by mail," learning to repair washing machines and dryers. Johnny generously offered his skills to friends and relatives throughout Greenlee and Graham Counties, often providing services at reasonable prices or bartering for other services. For those unable to pay, he would cover the cost of parts himself and complete repairs free of charge.
In 1983, a strike at Phelps Dodge forced Johnny into retirement after 32 years of service. Undeterred, he returned to school at age 51, enrolling in HVAC /Refrigeration trade school. He and Emma relocated to Mesa, Arizona, where Johnny graduated and began work at the McDonald Douglas Plant. A workforce reduction led him to SDI (Special Device Inc.) in Mesa. After retiring once more, Johnny built a home in Safford, Arizona, where he and Emma settled for the remainder of his life.
Johnny cherished his family and enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting events, including softball, baseball, football, and wrestling tournaments. He was an avid supporter of ASU football, attending games well into his nineties. Johnny was a proud member of the American Legion Post 28 of Clifton for over 70 years, making him one of Greenlee County's longest-serving Legionnaires.
Johnny is survived by: his wife of 72 years, Emma; four children-Yolanda (Robert) Herrera, Manuel (Tony) (Marylou) Gomez, Edward (Annie) Gomez, and Robert Gomez; nine grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and one great-grandchild on the way.
He was preceded in death by: his parents, Manuel and Guadalupe Gomez; siblings, Jimmy Gomez, Carmen Gomez Segovia, Delores Gomez Tellez, Josephine Gomez Aguilar, and David Gomez; grandson, John Anthony Herrera; and great-granddaughter, Aoifie. Johnny was the last surviving sibling, closing the chapter of the Gomez family.
Throughout his life, Johnny displayed remarkable resilience and a steadfast work ethic. From a young age, he quickly adapted to new responsibilities, taking on various roles to support his loved ones and ensure their well-being. These formative experiences shaped his character and instilled values that guided him for the rest of his life.