Gilbert Victor Jaramillo

Today, we remember and honor the life of Gil Jaramillo, a remarkable leader, mentor, and friend to so many., he went to be with the Lord on October 30th, 2024. Born and raised in Visalia, California, to Paul and Susie Jaramillo, Gil rang in the new year with joy, born on January 1st 1948. His roots were in this community, where he graduated from Redwood High School and attended the College of the Sequoias. His journey took him to North Hollywood, CA where he and his beloved wife, Edith, worked side by side at Bank of America in Los Angeles, both rising through the ranks to become Vice Presidents and Managers. Yet after 25 years, their hearts led them back home to Visalia, where Gil would continue to pour his time and talents into his community.

After retiring from Bank of America, Gil quickly un-retired to serve as the Executive Director of the Tulare Kings Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, where he worked tirelessly for nine years. During this time, he created countless connections within Tulare and Kings counties, strengthening relationships that would uplift and empower so many local businesses. In 2008, he transitioned to the Central California Small Business Development Center as the Visalia Satellite Manager, where he shared his wisdom as a business advisor and Certified NxLevel Instructor, guiding aspiring entrepreneurs with kindness and a steady hand.

Gil was truly woven into the fabric of the community he loved. He served as a Visalia Cemetery Trustee, where a bench in his honor now stands. He returned to the Tulare Kings Hispanic Chamber in June 2017 to lead as the Executive Director once again, and retired in 2023.

Gil was a Board member for the Finance and Thrift Corporation, part of the Tulare County Micro Loan Review Committee, and he gave his time freely to the United Way, the Measure R Tax Citizens Oversight Committee, and so many other programs. As the volunteer editor of the Tulare Kings Hispanic Times Newsletter, he helped keep his community informed and inspired.

In 2008, he received the inaugural Cesar Chavez Service With a Heart Award, a fitting tribute to his unwavering dedication and compassionate spirit. In 2023, he earned the Executive Director's Award from the Tulare Kings Hispanic Chamber, in honor of all his years of service and received the Executive Director’s award from the California State Hispanic Chamber.

Gil’s legacy is one of service, connection, and love for the Central Valley. He leaves behind a community made stronger, kinder, and more unified by his presence. May we continue to honor his life by carrying forward his spirit of generosity, mentorship, and Service. His commitment to uplifting the Hispanic community was unparalleled, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all he helped.

Preceded in death by his wife of 49 years Edith Jaramillo, his parents Paul and Susie Jaramillo, his brother John Jaramillo, and his nephews Paul Robert Jaramillo and David Paul Casados Sr.

He is survived by his daughter, Diane Jaramillo, grandchildren Derek Gregory and his fiance Cassandra Gastelum, Madison Tapia and her husband Eddie Tapia, and great-grandchildren Lincoln Galvan, Lorenzo Tapia, and Eleanor Gregory. He is also survived by his siblings Paul Jaramillo and wife Terry, Anita Manriquez, Ruby Renteria and husband Jesse, Robert Jaramillo and wife Liz, Rick Jaramillo, Isabel Renteria and husband Frank, Steve Jaramillo and wife Annette, Cornia Serna and husband Basillio, Christine Jaramillo all from Visalia and sister Rosemary Casados and husband David from Santa Fe, NM. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Burlin Patterson and sister-in-law Karen Bently.

As a devoted family man, Gil cherished his loved ones and always put their needs first. His kindness and unwavering support will be deeply missed by his family and friends. As our hearts break over the great man we have lost, we are so grateful to have our lives touched by Gil, his memory and impact will live on through his legacy.