John Jaramillo

John J. Jaramillo (Coach Jara, Mr. Jaramillo)

John Jaramillo, 56, of Santa Fe, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, jokes, stories, contagious laughter, generous heart and a smile that lit up every room.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Ramon and Guadalupe Angel; paternal grandparents, Manuel and Alice Jaramillo; mother- and father-in-law, Benito V. and Viola Martinez; uncles, Anthony Jaramillo, Ruben Jaramillo, and Bobby Angel; aunts, Evy (Lisa) Gallegos and Isabel Grecco; Godson, Andrew Ortiz; and nephew, Benito (Benzo) Martinez III.

John is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Maggie Jaramillo; his children, Robert Yardman and Anamarie Estrada (Roberto); and his beloved grandchildren, Liam Yardman, Sophia Estrada, and Emily Estrada, Amethyst Gallant and Santana Gallant. He is also survived by his loving parents, Manuel (Marty) and Frances Jaramillo; brother, Marty Jaramillo (Maria); sisters, Anna Jaramillo and Paula Jaramillo Duran; brothers-in-law, Benito Jr. and Arty Martinez; sister-in-law, Theres Moulton (Joby); and Godchildren, Robert Yardman, Joseph Ortega, Marcus Jaramillo, Alexandra Hernandez, Dennis Jaramillo, Nathan Wehmeier, and Nicholas Wehmeier.

John is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins, all of whom he loved dearly.

John lived a full and passionate life, marked by strength, service, and love. He was an avid hunter who loved the outdoors, and a gifted athlete who excelled in baseball, and especially men’s competitive softball—where he was known as a powerhouse with a fierce competitive spirit. Always at third base, he played with intensity and instinct. He charged the ball aggressively, fearless and focused, earning respect of his teammates and his opponents.

He poured that same passion into the young people he mentored. As a 3rd grade teacher, he left a lasting impression on countless students—not just through what he taught in the classroom, but through the way he made them feel seen, heard, and valued. His authenticity resonated with children; they were drawn to his warmth, his humor, and his ability to meet them exactly where they were. To them, he wasn’t just a teacher, he was someone who genuinely cared.

As a coach, he built his legacy across multiple levels—starting with elementary basketball, then moving into women’s softball and eventually varsity football. His most notable tenure was as the head baseball coach at Capital High School, where he led with passion and purpose. Later, he continued that legacy by coaching football at Santa Fe Indian School alongside his son, instilling mentorship, toughness, and unwavering belief in his players—many of whom continued to stay in touch with him years after they left the field. His final coaching stints included working with the Capital High School Girls Softball Team alongside his cousin and goddaughter, and proudly coaching his grandson’s 10U AABC team, the Wolverines.

Though he was known for his strength, John was a gentle giant. A protector by nature, he fiercely loved his family and friends. He had the heart of a guardian—always watching out for others, always willing to help, and always making you feel like you mattered.

In his later years, that protective love became even more tender as he stepped into the role of grandfather. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he adored every minute he spent with them. He was also deeply loved by his many nieces, nephews, and extended family members, who cherished his warmth, humor, and presence.

The most enduring love story of his life was with his wife, Maggie. For 31 years, they stood side by side through every trial and every joy. They took care of each other with a commitment and tenderness that reflected a rare and beautiful bond—one built on real love, earned trust, and deep appreciation.

John’s legacy is one of resilience, heart, and human connection. He lived big, he loved bigger, and he made the world brighter for those lucky enough to know him.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Rivera Family Funerals and Cremations: 417 East Rodeo Road, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505. 505-989-7032

A visitation will be held at 6:00PM with Rosary to follow at 7:00PM May 13, 2025, Rivera funeral home 417 East Rodeo Road, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505.

Funeral Mass to be held at10:00AM May 14, 2025, Santa Maria de la Paz Catholic Church 11 College Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87508.

Burial on May 15, 2025, at 10:00AM, Rosario Cemetery 499 N Guadalupe St, Santa Fe, NM 87501.