Obituaries

Eugene Albitre, retired Native American Spiritual Leader

Eugene Albitre, a retired Native American Spiritual Leader from North Kern State Prison, passed away May 6, 2026.

Eugene Albitre, a retired Native American Spiritual Leader, passed away May 6, 2026. He's shown wearing a cowboy-style hat and glasses.
Eugene Albitre

He worked at the prison from March 2007 until he retired in March 2021.

“Eugene will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time,” the prison wrote.

Inside CDCR interviewed Albitre in 2018 during Native American Day at the Capitol.

“I (work to help) some not go back in the prisons,” Albitre said at the time. “As a Native, we think differently and work differently.”

Details regarding services are not yet available.



Follow CDCR on YouTubeFacebookX (formerly Twitter).

Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.

Related content

CHCF mourns passing of SRN II Oby Som‑Anya

California Health Care Facility (CHCF) in Stockton is mourning the passing of Supervising Registered Nurse II (SRN II) Oby Som-Anya,…

Joseph Padilla, retired psychiatric technician

Joseph Padilla, a retired correctional psychiatric technician, passed away July 16, 2026. Padilla worked for the state for more than…

Michelle Battles, retired licensed vocational nurse

Michelle Battles, retired licensed vocational nurse from North Kern State Prison, passed away Aug. 17, 2026. She started her career…

William Francis, retired correctional counselor II

William Francis, a retired correctional counselor II (specialist) from San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away Aug. 12, 2026. He worked…

Ramona Arquilla, retired correctional sergeant

Ramona Arquilla, a retired correctional sergeant from Sierra Conservation Center in Jamestown, passed away June 17, 2026. She began her…

Staff from Wasco State Prison-Reception Center plant a tree in honor of Juan Carlos Garcia Espinoza, a licensed clinical social worker who passed away.

WSP‑RC unites to remember recently passed staff

Wasco State Prison Reception Center (WSP-RC) staff were joined by family members and close friends to remember the lives of…