Fernando Chacon Gomez III

Fernando Chacon Gomez III, J.D. Ph.D., born in Gallup, NM on December 18, 1947, passed away on the evening of October 24, 2021, in his home in Austin, TX. He is survived by his devoted soulmate and wife of 52 years, Sylvia Gomez. He is also survived by their son, Fernando IV and daughter-in-law, Nicole; their two grandchildren Dawson and Alexis; and their three great grandchildren Liam and Gabriel by Dawson, and Ellie by Alexis. He is also survived by their son-in-law, Valentin, and daughter Rebecca.

The name Fernando derives from the Spanish and Portuguese words meaning both peace and boldness, two qualities that exuded in his life work. Dr. Gomez graduated from Saint Francis Seminary in Cincinnati, Ohio before earning degrees from the University of New Mexico (B.A. cum laude) and the University of Michigan (J.D. and Ph.D., American Culture). He attained tenure at Michigan State University before serving as assistant attorney general in Michigan and in Texas, and as California State University System general counsel. He served as Texas State University System vice chancellor and general counsel for 30 years (1986-1990 and 1994-2020).

He edited and was a contributing author of two books on the history of the Texas State University System; authored books on education law; published short stories and poetry; and lectured throughout the United States and overseas, including Cuba and Yemen. Dr. Gomez cared deeply about his family, was passionate about his work, and his joyous personality will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cookwaldenchapelofthehills.com for the Gomez family.