Yuma, AZ - It is with great sadness that we share the passing of longtime Yuma educator, Carlos "Bill" Serafin Amabisca ("Mr. A"). Bill passed away peacefully with his family by his side on March 12, 2026 at the age of 99.

Bill was born on October 20, 1926 in Buckeye, Arizona. He graduated from Buckeye Union High School in 1945. Soon after graduation, Bill enlisted in the US Army. After his Army service, he attended Northern Arizona University, formerly Arizona State Teacher's College, where he graduated in 1952 with a Bachelor of Science in Education. After graduation, Bill was recruited to the Yuma area where he served as an educator at local schools including Fourth Avenue Jr. High, Alice Byrne Elementary and Palmcroft Elementary. He retired as Principal from Woodward Jr. High School.

After retirement, Bill enjoyed traveling, gardening and daily walks. He was also involved with the Knights of Columbus, Elks and Lions Clubs of Yuma.

Bill is survived by his wife, Armida, step-children Eddie, James (Jane), Mike (Debbie), David (Anissa) Bedoya and Laura (Mark) Stover. In addition, he is survived by his stepchildren from his first wife, Olivia. They include Hilda Chavez, Becky (Bill) Shepherd and Danny (Becky) Chavez. He is also survived by his brother Edward (Eufemia), many nieces and nephews, 16 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Bill was predeceased by his first wife Olivia (Chavez), his parents, Rosa (Conde) and Eligio Amabisca, sisters Sarah (Amabisca) Valdez and Cruzita Amabisca, brothers Eduardo, Manuel, Gil, John, Earnest, Jose and Jesus.

Rosary and Mass of the Resurrection were held on March 23, 2026 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Yuma. Burial with honors was held at Desert Lawn Memorial Park in Yuma.