José Gea Escolano (14 June 1929 – 6 February 2017) was a Spanish Roman Catholic prelate who served as a diocesan bishop in two Spanish sees. Born in El Real de Gandia in the Valencian Community, he pursued priestly formation in the mid‑20th century and was ordained to the priesthood in 1953. His ministry spanned periods of significant change within the Church and Spanish society.

Early life and priesthood

Gea Escolano was raised in the cultural and religious milieu of Valencia. After seminary studies he received ordination in 1953 and exercised pastoral, liturgical and administrative duties typical of a parish priest and diocesan cleric. His experience during these decades prepared him for episcopal leadership and the broader responsibilities that followed. For details on his ordination and early assignments see records and diocesan notices.

Episcopal ministry

In 1976 he was appointed Bishop of Ibiza, a diocese encompassing the Balearic island and its Catholic communities. As bishop he oversaw clergy, sacramental life and diocesan institutions through a period that included post‑Conciliar pastoral renewal and the Spanish transition to democracy. In 1987 he was transferred to the historic Diocese of Mondoñedo‑Ferrol in Galicia, where he served until his retirement.

  • Priest: ordained 1953
  • Bishop of Ibiza: 1976–1987
  • Bishop of Mondoñedo‑Ferrol: 1987–2005

During his time in Mondoñedo‑Ferrol he worked with local parishes, supported diocesan initiatives and took part in the Spanish bishops' conferences and pastoral programs common to bishops of his generation. After reaching the customary age for episcopal retirement, he resigned in 2005 and became bishop emeritus; formal notices and announcements mark that transition here.

Later life and legacy

José Gea Escolano spent his later years in the Valencian region. He died on 6 February 2017 in Valencia; local reports noted his long service to the Church and the communities he led (Valencia sources). His legacy is that of a diocesan pastor who bridged mid‑century priestly ministry and the responsibilities of a bishop in late 20th‑century Spain.