Thomas Martin Tafoya

Thomas Martin Tafoya passed away unexpectedly on July 22, 2023, from a tragic accident at the young age of 46. The family is deeply saddened and devastated by his sudden death. 

Thomas is survived and will be greatly missed by his daughters, Alyssa Padilla Tafoya (Julian IV), and Jadah Tafoya, his mother Sally Tafoya, partner Carolyn Romero, stepchildren, Marlana Baca, and Bailee Baca; grandchild Cash Nieto, siblings, Christopher Tafoya (Maria Padilla), Andrew Castillo (Andrea), Jerry Castillo (Mary), Teresa Castillo, Max Tafoya (Barbara), Nick Tafoya (Magdalena), and Liz Correa (Juan). Thomas is also survived by many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends. He is proceeded in death by his precious baby daughter Riah Tafoya, and his Father Max Tafoya.

Thomas was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on November 4, 1976.  He worked for Albuquerque Public Schools in the HVAC department for over 26 years and was an incredibly dedicated worker. Thomas was a loving and caring man who made an impact on so many lives making it impossible to fill his shoes. He was a devoted father, partner, son, brother, uncle, and friend. 

Thomas loved and was so proud of both his newly married daughter Alyssa and soon to be college student Jadah.  He loved to hunt and fish whether it was snagging salmon at Heron Lake, turkey hunting in the spring or elk and deer hunting in the winter with his many friends and brother Chris. Thomas enjoyed farming and taking care of his cows. He loved watching sports with his family and especially his favorite teams the Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Lakers. The Dallas Cowboys was by far his favorite team to root for and watch either on the television or in person. Another hobby Thomas really enjoyed was being on the water at Elephant Butte in the summer months on his boat or jet skies with his many family members and friends.  Anyone who had the privilege of knowing Thomas had the honor of knowing a truly remarkable man with way more life to live.  He truly was one-of-a-kind and will be greatly missed by all the lives he touched. Thomas’ kind heart, ethic for hard work, easy going demeanor, and great smile will leave an empty space in everyone he touched. He had a passion to live life and enjoyed every moment with a smile on his face. Thomas’ charming glow will be remembered always.

A Visitation will take place on Thursday, August 3^rd, 2023, from 6:00PM – 8:00PM at Daniels Family Funeral Services – Alameda Mortuary, located at 9420 4^th Street NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87114. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 4^th, 2023, at 9:00AM at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, located at 9502 4^th St. NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87114. Interment to follow at San Carlos Cemetery, located at Alameda Boulevard and Balloon Museum Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87114.