Tomas "Tommy" Tapia

Tomas "Tommy" Tapia, a cherished member of the Santa Rosa community and devoted family man, passed away on March 25, 2026, at his residence in Santa Rosa, New Mexico, after a period of illness. Born on January 30, 1938, in Palma, NM, Tomas lived a life marked by dedication, creativity, and deep love for his family.

Tomas graduated from Moriarty High School in 1958, and soon thereafter, on June 7, 1960, he married the former Dolores “Doris” Ortega at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. Together, they built their home and raised their family in Santa Rosa, where Tomas remained a faithful parishioner throughout his life.

From a young age, Tomas displayed a strong work ethic, beginning his career at the age of 14 at Clines Corners Tourist Stop. His passion for culinary arts led him to a long-standing career as a chef at various restaurants in Santa Rosa, culminating in his retirement from the Silver Moon Restaurant. Following his culinary career, Tomas dedicated five years to working with San Bar Construction, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to his work.

Tomas had a rich and vibrant personality, deeply appreciating the outdoors, music, and art. His creativity was evident in many aspects of his life. An avid reader with a gentle spirit, he treasured his pets and found immense joy in the company of his loved ones. Above all, Tomas's greatest happiness came from the time spent with his family, eagerly anticipating family gatherings that strengthened their bonds.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Yolanda Tapia-Rivera, Andrew Tapia, and David (Alex) Tapia; his grandchildren: Daniel (Vanessa) Rivera, Shaylee Tapia, Abrie Tapia, Elvira Tapia, Dolores Tapia, Rosita Tapia, Erika Sena, Josef Sena, and Mark Sena (Wendy); and his great-grandchildren: Gabriel Rivera, Malani Rivera, Aleesha Ortega (Santana), Jeremiah Huerta, Thomas Huerta, Olivia Sena, Zhavia Sena, and Adriel. Tomas’s family circle also includes his beloved “fur baby,” Banjo, and his siblings Rose Koroneos, Susie Kuntz, Ann Tafoya, Dorothy Arteche (David), Paul Tapia (Juanita), and Elizabeth Tapia Montoya (Arthur); sisters-in-law: Sylvia Tapia and Carol Tapia, as well as many nephews, nieces, and close friends who hold him dear.

Tomas was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores “Doris” Tapia, his parents Jose Reyes Tapia and Valeria Tapia, his daughter Nancy Sena, his siblings Manuel Tapia, George Tapia, Ernest Tapia, Albert Tapia, and Sally Saiz, and his earlier fur baby, Jackson.

Recitation of The Most Holy Rosary, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, April 8, 2026 beginning at 9:30AM at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Santa Rosa, with Father Sotero Sena celebrating the service.  Interment of cremains will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, with Mark Sena, Daniel Rivera, Thomas Huerta and Elvira Tapia serving as Urn Bearers.

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

Tomas "Tommy" Tapia’s life was a testament to the values of hard work, creativity, faith, and family devotion. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and inspiration, and his memory will continue to be a guiding light to all who were fortunate to know him. The community and his loved ones mourn a man whose spirit and love will never be forgotten.