Jimmie "Jim" Maldonado

Jimmie "Jim" Maldonado, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, at Miners Colfax Medical Center. Born on July 25, 1938, in Raton, New Mexico, he was the son of the late Ofelia Mestas Maldonado and Miguel Maldonado.

Jim's life was a testament to public service, beginning with his honorable four-year tour in the U.S. Navy after graduating from Raton High School in 1956. He later worked as an electrician at the Kaiser Steel Coal Mine before dedicating himself to a long and impactful career in law enforcement. From his early days with the Raton Police Department to his dedicated service with the Colfax County Sheriff's Department, where he rose to the rank of Undersheriff, Jim was a figure of integrity and trust. He was elected Sheriff for an impressive six terms, serving from 1985 to 1988 and again from 1991 to 2002. His devotion to the county and his community continued when he served two terms as a Colfax County Commissioner from 2006 to 2010.

Jim was a devoted family man who recently endured the loss of his wife of 67 years, Lillian, in July 2025. He is survived by his loving daughters, Beverly (Danny) Vukonich and Aimee (Denver) Feldman. He was a proud grandfather to Kylie (Sean), Kaycie (Kevin), Kori (Dephen), Arissa (Dante), and Avery (Hunter). His legacy continues through his three great-grandsons, Jameson, JJ, and Clyde, as well as another great-grandchild on the way. He is also survived by his sisters, Eloisa Trujillo and Bernice Sanchez, and his brother, Frank Maldonado, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Friday, October 10, at 10:00 a.m. at the Raton Convention Center, with inurnment to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers or food, memorial donations be made to a charity of your choice in Jim’s memory. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Leonardo Lopez and the compassionate nursing staff at MCMC for their exceptional care.

Arrangements are under the direction of Alderette Pomeroy Funeral Home.