THOMAS BARELA AGUIRRE

Thomas Aguirre, a devoted educator, coach, and respected member of the Globe Community, passed away March 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous battle with cancer. Tom was born on May 11, 1949, in Globe, Arizona. Tom’s journey in education spanned nearly four decades, leaving a lasting impression on the lives of thousands of students in the Globe and San Carlos Communities.

Tom was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, whose kindness and resilience touched those who knew him. Tom enjoyed fishing, traveling, golfing, attending and watching all sporting events and most importantly spending time with his wife, family and friends.

Some of Tom’s proud accomplishments include being selected as the 3A South All-Star Basketball Coach in 1994, the most victorious Globe High School Varsity Basketball Coach with 185 wins which still holds the record at Globe High School, and being the head varsity coach of football, basketball, baseball, track and golf at various times throughout his career as an educator. Tom was inducted into the Globe Hall of Fame in 2012.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Luis and Lydia Aguirre, brother Louis Aguirre and sister Barbara Valencia. He is survived by his wife, Christy Aguirre, and children: Cynthia Garcia (Arthur), Stephanie Irish, Brian Valencia (Peggy), Gabriel Valencia (Heidi) and his grandchildren: Aubriana, Alyssa (Aaron), Derek (Abby), Caleb, Samanatha and Jakob and great grandchild: Harrison

Tom will be deeply missed. The love, compassion, and energy that Tom brought into the world will continue to shine through those he leaves behind, as they carry on his legacy of nurturing, encouragement, and dedication to education and family.

Services will be held Saturday, April 5, 2025, Holy Angels Catholic Church, Rosary 9:30 a.m. Mass 10:00 a.m. followed by a luncheon at GHS Gymnasium