Mr. Gilbert R. Esparza, age 82, of Dalton, GA, departed this life Wednesday January 27, 2021 at Hamilton Medical Center. He was born April 24, 1938 in San Antonio, TX, a son of the late Geronimo and Augustina Ruiz Esparza. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Anita S. Esparza, brothers and sisters-in-law, Ramon and Mary Esparza, Benito Esparza, Simona Esparza, sister, Josephina Esparza, stepson, JR Smith.

Gilbert was a man of faith. He attended Poplar Springs Baptist Church for many years with his wife Lucy. Gilbert and Lucy loved to travel everywhere they could. They would leave gospel tracks everywhere they went to spread God's love. Gilbert was also owner of Michella's Mexican Restaurant with his first wife Ann. The community loved them and their food. Especially the "bomb" burrito. Gilbert loved his family. He was proud of his children and loved them very much. He was also an immensely proud Navy Veteran on USS Douglas A Munro, from 1955-1957. He was a machinist mate. Gilbert grew up in San Antonio Texas with his brothers and sisters. His brother Ramon helped raise him alongside his children, Tina, Mary and Juan. They were all very close.

He is survived by his wife; Lucille Welch Esparza; children, Mark A. Chapa and Rocio De Guadalupe Valdes Montemayor, Loretta C. and Paul Luna of San Antonio TX, Annette and Eddie Slade, Steven Stinson, Tracy Sanchez, Michelle and Sandy Parson; brother, Eloy Esparza; sister, Yolanda Esparza Morales; grandchildren, Charles and April Luna, Clayton Luna, Shelby Luna, Cynthia and Andrew Avila, Sadie R., Athena R., Daniella R., Andrew Jr, Rylee E., Molly A. and David Everett, Eli, Danny, Ruby and Dylan, Jason, Jakob, Isabella, Briella, Spencer Parson, Skyler, Ryder, Tanner Parson, Noah Slade, Summer York, Joe Stinson.

Graveside service will be held Monday February 1, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. from the Ponders Colonial Hills Memorial Park Cemetery.

Due to the National health crisis and the Covid-19 virus, masks must be worn properly at all times and social distancing must be observed when visiting the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.pondersfuneralhome.com .
Arrangements will be announced by, Ponders Melrose Chapel 138 Melrose Drive Dalton, GA 30721, 706-226-4002
www.selectedindependentfuneralhomes.org and www.ogr.org