Tom Herrera

Tom Herrera was born February 6, 1934 in Los Angeles, CA to Jose and Irene Herrera and died at his home in Albuquerque, surrounded by his loving family on July 3, 2015. Tom's parents moved to New Mexico when he was ten years old and settled in the Martinez Town neighborhood where they became an integral part of the community. He attended Albuquerque High School and was proud to be a "Bulldog". During the Korean Conflict, Tom enlisted in the US Navy and honorably served his beloved United States. Four of his brothers also served in the military during this time. Tom returned home after his military service and soon began working at Goodrich Roofing where he would become lead-foreman for nearly three decades. Tom met the former Josephine Sanchez and her eight children when he was a 37 year old bachelor. She was the love of his life. They married on April 3, 1971. During their life together Tom and Josie learned to lean on their faith in the Lord. They faced their life's challenges together with the Lord and fellowshipped at North Valley Gospel, Faith Chapel, and Triumph Centre at Bethel. In 1983, with the encouragement and support of the entire family Tom, Josie and youngest son John started Right Way Roofing. From Josie's kitchen table the company began and grew to become one of the most respected roofing companies in New Mexico, twice being named Small Business of the Year. Tom's passion had become not only a career but a means to proudly support his family for the rest of his life. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Irene Herrera; brothers, Jose Jr. and Robert; and a sister, Irene. He is survived by his wife, Josie; sons, Daniel, Edward, Jaime, Jerome, Luis, and John; and daughters, Lois and Michelle, as well as the spouses of both his children and grandchildren whom he loved as his own. He is also survived by 24 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. In addition he is survived by his brothers, Fred, Dino and Richard; and a sister, Lillian. The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to all who supported Tom and the family during his illness, especially the Presbyterian Hospice team and his wonderful nurse Karen. At the end of the day, this giant of a man leaves a void in the hearts and lives of his wife, their entire family, and all who were fortunate to have known him. We will forever miss our Hombre de Fierro (Iron Man)! Visitation will be held Friday, July 10, 2015 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at FRENCH - University. Funeral service honoring Tom's life will be celebrated on Saturday, July 11, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at Evangel Christian Center, 4501 Montgomery Blvd. NE. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park.