James Keith

Jim Keith, 84, of Tucumcari, New Mexico, passed away on October 25, 2026. A skilled craftsman, proud veteran, father and grandfather, Jim devoted his life to the time-honored trades of blacksmithing and farriery.

Jim had deep roots in New Mexico where the Keith family homesteaded in Quay County. After graduating from Maxwell High School in 1959, he started his career as a cowboy on the Bell Ranch and rodeo saddle bronc competitor. This is where he gained firsthand experience with horses that would remain central to his career.

Jim enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1964 and served in Germany. He was a decorated sharpshooter and earned a good conduct medal. His military service was an important part of his story, and his commitment to his country stood alongside his lifelong dedication to his craft and community.

Those who knew Jim frequently described him as a renaissance man. He was a certified journeyman electrician. He was an accomplished western artist. He found a creative outlet in metal work which when combined with his respect for horses, led him to a lifelong career as a blacksmith and farrier.

Jim excelled in competitive blacksmithing and horseshoeing events. He was a four-time World Champion Blacksmith and was inducted into the International Horseshoeing Hall of Fame. Jim managed the American Farriers Team, judged competitions and taught horseshoeing around the world. In 2025 he was inducted into the New Mexico Rounders, an award created by the State of New Mexico to recognize those who embody the spirit of the “western way of life.”

One of Jim’s lasting contributions was his willingness to share that knowledge with others. He served as a teacher and mentor to fellow horseshoers, passing along the skills, techniques, and judgment that are so important to the profession. He understood that preserving a trade meant more than practicing it himself—it meant helping the next generation develop the ability and confidence to carry it forward.

Jim was preceded in death by father, Talbert (Tod) Keith, mother, Grace Romero Keith, four siblings; John Harbaugh, Rick Rodgers, Tom Rodgers, Laura Keith Graham and his daughter, Seren Estrada. He is survived by his wife of 45 years Carole Keith, children Leanne Owens (Ron) of Prescott, AZ, Todd Keith of Wiley, TX, Levi Keith (Carol) of Scotland, Christy Logsdon of Edgewood, NM, and Kathy Keith (Patrick Woehrle) of Tesuque, NM. Grandchildren include Ian Owens, Amanda Logsdon, Mariah Logsdon, John Logsdon, Annie Woehrle, Ethan Estrada, Lara Woehrle, Cadie Carpio, one great-grandson, Gavin Owens, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge 27 AF & AM of Tucumcari, New Mexico. A celebration of life will be held on November 21, 2026, at 2pm at the World Championship Blacksmith National Smithy in Edgewood, NM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the New Mexico Professional Horseshoers Association.

Mr. Keith’s care has been entrusted to Chavez Funeral Home of Santa Rosa, 923 S. Third St., Santa Rosa, NM 88435. 575-472-3369.