Tommy Montoya

Tom Montoya, 57 of Roswell NM, passed away on November 2, 2021.

In July of 1964, the world welcomed Thomas Joseph Montoya or Tommy Joe, to his longtime friends and family, a little boy full of life. Tommy Joe grew up in Tucumcari, NM a town he loved and called home.

At a young age, he learned tough love. Being picked on by his twin brothers and their friends, Tommy Joe grew thick skin. He discovered he had a knack for basketball and football. Tommy Joe was good and he made sure to let everyone know just how good he was through the wonderful memories and stories he would tell. He graduated from Tucumcari High school in 1982. Tom grew up to be "the rock" of the Montoya family. He made sure his mother and brothers were taken care of.

One of the happiest times in Tom's life was when he became a father to Joe and Chris. They were his pride and joy in life. Whenever you saw Tom, usually on the basketball court, two little boys would be following close behind. Sports was a major part of his life and anybody who knew him knows it was always, "How Bout Them Cowboys!"

Tom enjoyed life to the fullest. He said, "Family and Friends are the most important aspect of my life. I love my life." Tom loved life and truly never met a stranger. Everyone thought Tom was their best friend because that's how he made you feel.

Tom was a rocker at heart. He loved concerts and believed every good time needed music. His favorite saying was, "Make it a great one!" and this is exactly how he chose to live his life.

Tom's family and friends will miss him more than words can say. "Cheers" to the best dad, Papa Tom-Tom, Father-in-law, brother from another mother, friend and life of the party. Everyone needs a Tom in their life and we were blessed to have him in ours.

Tom is survived by the love of his life, Gina Grado and his brother Donnie Montoya. His son and best friend Joseph Montoya and wife Shellae Montoya. Step-son, Julian Grado and wife Loretta Grado. Step-daughter Savannah Grado and grandchildren, Journey (his princess) and C.Rush Montoya, Ellah and Lian Grado.

Tom is preceded in death by his son, Christopher Montoya, brother, Ronnie Montoya and mother, Emily Montoya.

Services for Tom Montoya will be held at Ballard Funeral Home at 11:00 am. Then, a celebration of life at the Liberty at 1:00 pm on November 20, 2021 in Roswell, NM.