‘An Honor And A Privilege’ – Former Century Mayor, Councilman Luis Gomez, Jr. Dies

August 13, 2026

Former Century mayor and councilman Luis Gomez, Jr. has died. Gomez resigned as mayor in early 2025 for medical reasons. He was 62.

“It is with a heavy heart that I submit my resignation as mayor of the Town of Century effective January 10, 2025,” Gomez said on January 7, 2025, reading from a letter to the town council. “This decision comes after much reflection and is based on a personal medical reasons that I now require all my full attention. Serving the Town of Century has been an honor and a privilege.”

“When the former mayor abruptly resigned in 2023, I stepped into the role of interim mayor by a 4-1 vote to provide leadership and stability. With the support and approval of the council, I took immediate action to address critical issues and set a foundation for Century’s future,” he said before citing specific accomplishments including insurance savings of nearly $200,000, hiring a professional management consulting firm, and outsourcing management of the wastewater treatment plant.

“These accomplishments reflect a shared commitment to the progress and fiscal responsibility, and I am proud that we were able to achieve it together in such a short time,” Gomez said. “I remain committed to supporting a smooth transition and full confidence that the foundation we built to sustain and propel the town forward. Thank you for your trust, collaboration and the opportunity to serve this incredible community.”

Gomez received a standing ovation for his service from the council.

Gomez was appointed interim mayor in August 2023 after the resignation of then-mayor Ben Boutwell. He was later elected to the position with no opposition in 2023 in a special election to finish Boutwell’s term and again with no opposition in 2024 for another four-year term that just started on January 1, 2025. He was first elected to the town council in 2017.

Funeral services have not been announced.

Pictured top: Century Mayor Luis Gomez, Jr. reads his letter of resignation on January 7, 2025. He received a standing ovation for his service from the town council (first below). Just reelected, he was sworn in as mayor (pictured second below) on January 7, 2025, to serve just a few days after resigning in the same meeting. Gomez was first elected to the town council in 2017 (third photo below). Gomez was also known for community service, hosting events such as block parties for youth (fourth below). NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under TOP STORIES