Raoul "Roy" Gustavo Chavez

Raoul Gustavo Chavez was born on December 17, 1941, to Juan and Esperanza Chavez in Windsor, Colorado. From an early age, he was lovingly known as Roy. In 1947, the Chavez family moved to Planada, California. Tragically, Roy’s mother passed away unexpectedly at the age of 41, when Roy was just five years old. Despite this profound loss, Roy was blessed with a devoted father and seven siblings, forming a family rooted in deep love and faith. Roy’s wife, Gloria, often marveled that the Chavez family truly lived like the “Waltons,” always caring for and watching over one another.

Roy attended Planada Elementary School and Le Grand High School, where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball. He went on to play baseball at Coalinga Junior College. His passion for sports became the foundation of a lifelong calling in teaching and coaching.

In 1962, while home to attend a wedding and keep a dental appointment, Roy met the love of his life, Gloria Santillan. Though Roy continued his education in Fresno, the two—separated by only an hour’s drive—wrote to each other daily, faithfully nurturing their relationship long before cell phones or texting. After three years of courtship, Roy and Gloria married in 1965, beginning a beautiful union that lasted 60 years and 7 months.

Roy completed his teaching degree at CSU Stanislaus and, in 1967, accepted a teaching and coaching position at Our Lady of Mercy High School. Roy experienced years of intense competition and success, with packed stadiums and unforgettable seasons. As each football season ended, Roy seamlessly transitioned into coaching basketball and baseball, giving his students and players his whole heart.

In 1972, Roy was offered the principalship at Our Lady of Mercy. After much prayer, he chose instead to accept a teaching position with the Merced River School District, where Administration once again called. But, in 1974 Roy accepted a teaching and coaching position at Livingston High School. That same year brought immense joy when Roy and Gloria welcomed their son, Jason, in October of 1974.

Roy was grateful beyond measure—for his career, his family, and his faith.

In 1976, Roy began teaching and coaching at Merced High School, continuing to serve students and athletes with dedication and integrity. During this time, he earned his Master’s degree in Administration from the University of California, San Francisco. He was later invited by Merced College head football coach Don Odishoo to join the college coaching staff. After much prayer and reflection, Roy declined, choosing to prioritize his family. Though it was a difficult decision, Roy never regretted it, knowing his heart was with his son and his calling was guided by God.

In 1994, Roy accepted a teaching and coaching position at Golden Valley High School, which was Merced's newest high school. Gloria often teased him, saying, “I know we’re second and coaching is first.” Roy would lovingly reply, “No—God is first, you and Jason are second, and coaching is third.” Those words always filled Gloria’s heart with joy.

Roy retired in 2005 and embraced retirement with enthusiasm. He cherished traveling with his beloved Gloria, fishing, golfing, planning scholarship fundraisers, gardening, watching sports, and proudly attending his grandson Logan’s soccer, basketball, and baseball games.

Roy was deeply grateful for the life he lived—the students he taught, the players he coached, the faith that guided him, and the family and friends he loved so dearly. He greeted each day with a smile and viewed life as a precious gift.

Roy was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, faithful brother, and cherished friend. Known affectionately as “Sweetie Pie,” “Love Bug,” “Pop,” and “Grandpa,” he will forever live in the hearts and memories of those who knew and loved him.

Roy is survived by his wife of 60 years and 7 months, Gloria Chavez; his son, Jason Chavez; his grandson, Logan Chavez; his brother John Chavez (Mary Ellen); his brother Manuel Chavez (Yolanda); his sisters Eloise Snow (Dean), Connie Quintella, and Soco Chavez.

Roy touched countless lives and gave his wholehearted energy to his Faith, his family, and his calling, coaching and teaching. He will never be forgotten.

Thank you, Roy, for the memories, the joy, the laughter, the encouragement, and the love. Job well done. Rest in paradise and continue serving your Lord.

Celebration of Life

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

St. Patrick’s Parish

671 East Yosemite Ave.

Merced, CA 95340

Rosary 10:30am

Funeral Mass 11:00am