Tommy Cordova

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Tommy Cordova, a man full of love for others and for life itself. In spite of suffering from dementia for 19 years, Tommy never complained and always maintained his child-like faith and his sense of deep gratitude. Tommy was born on July 22, 1954 to Demetrio and Rose (Martinez) Cordova. He transitioned out of this life on July 5, 2026 in his home. Throughout Tommy’s journey of 71 years, Tommy touched many lives with his love, humor, and his unwavering faith.

Tommy graduated from San Jon High School in 1973. He later graduated from DeWolff’s College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology in 1975. Tommy was a talented cosmetologist in Tucumcari, New Mexico for 32 years. He was known for being a great hair dresser and for his lively conversation. He worked at the Correct Beauty Salon and later at Margie’s Beauty Salon.

Tommy married the love of his life, Cecilia (Tapia) “Chata” on August 4, 1979. They were married for 46 years and made their life in Tucumcari. Tommy and Chata were blessed with a son, Antonio, in 1984. Antonio was the light of both of his parents’ lives. The family were active members of St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Tucumcari. Tommy and Chata enjoyed dancing together, traveling, and going to family reunions in Pastura, San Jon, and in Vaughn. They often led the wedding Marcha at weddings they attended too. Chata adored Tommy throughout their marriage both during the many happy times and when they faced much heartache. She stayed by Tommy’s side and was unwavering in her commitment to him with love. Tommy showed his love for Chata too by thanking her and telling her he loved her each and every day they were together.

Tommy’s lifetime was marked by his love for life and for people. His love was contagious as he was chosen to be a Godparent to eleven different children. He treasured each of his Godchildren tremendously. Tommy was fond of having visitors over to his house whether it was family, friends, or neighbors. He would always greet you with a warm hug or friendly handshake, and his famous departing words “I’m so glad you stopped by.” He loved playing games, cards, rummicube, and anything that involved being around people. When he wasn’t with other people, he also enjoyed crocheting and doing word searches too. Tommy leaves behind nothing but memories of love, laughter, and the light he brought to the lives of the people around him.

Tommy was proceeded in death by his parents, Demetrio and Rose Cordova; his son, Antonio Cordova; his father-in-law, Vicente Tapia; his mother-in-law, Cornelia Tapia; his brother, Alex Cordova; his sister, Rose Marie Cordova; his nephews Soylo Cooper and Alex Romero; his brother-in-laws, Louis Tapia and Leonard Tapia; his sister-in-law, Susan Tapia; and his great nephews, Alex Jones; Estevan Romero-Maldonado; Kyle Brockman; Spencer Briscoe; and great niece, Addilyn Romero-Maldonado.

He is survived by his wife Cecilia “Chata” Cordova. He is also survived by four of his siblings: Mary Ann Cordova (Manuel) of Amarillo, Texas; Dean Cordova of San Jon, New Mexico; Phillip (Luz) Cordova of Perryton, Texas; and Demetrio Cordova Jr. (Mary Helen) of Bakersfield, California; along with several Aunts, Uncles, nieces, nephews, and 11 godchildren.

Viewing will be Friday, July 10, 2026 from Noon to 1:00 pm at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Tucumcari, New Mexico. Funeral services for Tommy will also be held on July 10, 2026 at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Tucumcari beginning at 1:00 pm with the Recitation of The Most Holy Rosary, recited by Jim Jonhnson (cousin) immediately followed by the Mass of Christian Burial. Father Cameron Degani will be celebrating the service.

Interment will follow at the family plot in Tucumcari Memorial Park with Leo Baca, Jonathan Brown, Christopher Cooper, Christopher Tapia, Dennis Tapia Jr. and Matthew Tapia serving as Pallbearers. The Honorary Pallbearers are the following: Bobby Alarcon, Veronica Baca, Paul Booth, Daniel Cordova, Sergio Gonzalez, Kathy Griego, and Carlos Marquez.

All arrangements are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home of Santa Rosa, 923 S. Third St., Santa Rosa, NM 88435. 575-472-3369.