Gabriel Botero Jr., of Washington, D.C., passed away on April 22, 2026, at George Washington University Hospital. Born on September 26, 1987, in Manhattan, New York, Gabriel lived a life defined not just by accomplishment, but by the depth of his heart, his generosity of spirit, and his unwavering commitment to lifting others.

Gabriel pursued his education with intention and purpose, earning a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut, followed by a master’s degree in Defense and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He was a U.S. Army veteran and deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He carried that same purpose into his professional life, dedicating his career to service, most recently as Special Assistant to the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. His work was more than a job; it was a reflection of his belief in honoring and supporting those who served.

Beyond his professional achievements, Gabriel’s life was rich with connection, movement, and community. He found joy and belonging within the DC fitness community including The Lab, Cafecito y Perreo Run Club, and Team After One. In these communities, he did not just participate, he uplifted, encouraged, and inspired. He was a proud brother of Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc., where he embodied the values of brotherhood and service, and a passionate supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project, a cause that reflected both his deep compassion and his strong sense of responsibility toward others.

To know Gabriel was to feel seen. His warmth was immediate, his smile unforgettable, and his energy contagious. He had a rare gift: the ability to meet people exactly where they were and remind them of who they could become. He believed in others often before they believed in themselves, offering encouragement that stayed with you long after the moment passed. His presence was a light - steady, genuine, and deeply felt.

Gabriel was a fiercely loving son, brother, nephew, and cousin. He was the spearhead of the family, breaking barriers for all who came after him and taking care of those who came before him. Gabriel was the anchor, the shield, the lighthouse - our soldier. He loved his family beyond measure.

Gabriel is survived by his loving mother, Luz Stella Botero; his father, Gabriel Botero Sr.; his sister, Jennifer Henao; his uncle, Jorge Blandon; his aunt, Sandra Blandon; his cousin, Pamela Blandon; and his beloved dog, Onyx. He also leaves behind a wide and devoted circle of friends who became family, each carrying forward pieces of his spirit, his kindness, his strength, and his joy.

A memorial service will be held on May 4, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Joseph Gawler’s Funeral Home at 5130 Wisconsin Ave NW in Washington, DC 20016. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in honor of Gabriel’s lifelong dedication to supporting veterans.

Gabriel’s life was a testament to love in action. Though he is no longer physically present, the impact he made, the lives he touched, the hearts he lifted, will continue to ripple outward, enduring far beyond his time with us.

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