It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Deacon Wilson C. Gorman, who passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
Deacon Gorman was born on March 9th, 1943 in Nazlini, AZ, to parents Phillip Gorman and Ruth Tso and raised in a traditional Navajo family who emphasized the importance of education.
He obtained an advanced degree in Adult Education and served as an educator for many schools, particularly in the BIA sites on the Reservation.
On June 3, 1972 he married his wife, Julia, and the couple went on to have four children: three daughters – Beverly, Lucynda, and Jenni – and one son, John-Phillip.
He was baptized in the Catholic Church on June 12, 1983, and ordained to the Diaconate by Bishop Donald Pelotte on May 6, 1995, at St. Berard Church in Navajo, AZ. He served for many years at both St. Berard and at St. Francis Church in Sawmill, AZ.
His wife, Julia, also received a certification from the Diocese to serve as a lay minister and an Extraordinary Minister of the Holy Eucharist.
Deacon Gorman was known for his deep faith and compassionate way, once remarking: “My purpose is to be a bridge…God made me to connect the traditional Navajo with the Catholic Church.”
Let us keep Deacon Wilson, his wife Julia, and their family in our prayers.
May he and all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
Arrangements are as follows:
Rosary:
St. Francis Mission
Indian Route 7
Sawmill, Arizona
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
5:30 PM MDT
Holy Mass:
Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament
173 Main Street
Ft. Defiance, Arizona
Thursday, March 12, 2026
10:00 AM MDT
Burial to follow at local family plot, reception to follow at the Parish Hall:
Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament
173 Main Street
Ft. Defiance, Arizona