In Loving Memory of Damon James Maddox

August 11, 1975 - July 4, 2026

With profound sorrow and immense gratitude for a life so beautifully lived, we announce the passing of Damon James Maddox, who died suddenly on July 4, 2026, while preparing to host a family celebration-one of the things he loved most. He was 50 years old.

Born on August 11, 1975, in Long Branch, New Jersey, Damon lived a life defined by generosity, laughter, friendship, and unwavering love. He possessed the rare gift of making everyone feel welcome, valued, and at home. To know Damon was to know warmth, joy, and the comforting certainty that there would always be a seat for you at his table.

Damon's life was rich with meaningful relationships and experiences. He attended New Mexico State University, where he studied Civil Engineering and formed many of the lifelong friendships he treasured deeply. Following his passion for food and hospitality, he later attended the New York Restaurant School, pursuing the culinary arts that would become one of his life's greatest joys.

Over the years, Damon became a beloved figure in Albuquerque's restaurant community. He worked at renowned local establishments including The Artichoke Café, Portobello, Paisano's, and Terra Bistro. It was while working at Portobello that he met the love of his life, Jennifer, beginning a partnership that would become the heart and center of his world.

A man of many talents and ambitions, Damon built an extraordinary career that reflected both his entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to serving others. He was a successful REALTOR, owner of Maddox Management, a family owned and operated business with his mother and sister, a respected business leader, chef, and restaurateur. He proudly owned and operated restaurants at Old Town Tap Room and Left Turn Distilling, where his passion for bringing people together through exceptional food and genuine hospitality shined brightly.

Damon's commitment to his community was equally remarkable. He gave his time, energy, and resources generously, supporting countless organizations and causes throughout New Mexico. He sponsored UNM Athletics, Isotopes Baseball, Altamira, Popejoy Hall, and Lobo Little League, always believing that strong communities are built by people willing to invest in one another.

Within the real estate profession, Damon was a widely respected leader and advocate. He served as President of the New Mexico Association of REALTORS, sat on the Southwest MLS Board of Directors, and contributed extensively to state, local, and national REALTOR organizations. He was especially proud of his induction into the RPAC Hall of Fame, like his father Jim, and his service on numerous National Association of REALTORS committees, where he worked tirelessly to strengthen the profession he loved.

Yet for all his professional achievements, Damon will be remembered most for the way he lived.

Above all else, Damon was devoted to his family. Nothing brought him greater pride or joy than being a husband and father. He cherished every moment spent with his sons, Shawn and Aydon, and embraced fatherhood with his whole heart. Whether coaching their baseball teams when they were young, serving as a Scout leader in Boy Scouts, taking them camping under the stars, or simply spending time together, Damon made every experience an adventure.

He taught his boys the importance of kindness, hard work, loyalty, and showing up for the people you love. He was their biggest fan, loudest cheerleader, and most steadfast supporter. His hugs were legendary-strong, comforting, and full of love-and no matter their age, he never missed an opportunity to wrap his arms around his boys and remind them how proud he was of them. More than anything, Damon made sure Shawn and Aydon knew, every single day, how deeply and completely they were loved.

The bond he shared with his sons was one of the greatest treasures of his life. The lessons he taught them, the memories they created together, and the love he gave so freely will remain with them forever.

Damon loved baseball, especially the Chicago Cubs. He loved music, singing at the top of his lungs, dancing without hesitation, listening to records, and driving around with the top down in his convertible. He loved discovering great food, sharing meals with friends, and creating unforgettable memories around a crowded table.

Damon was a legendary host. His Super Bowl parties, Thanksgiving feasts, and Christmas celebrations became cherished traditions for family and friends. No one was ever turned away. If someone needed a place to belong, Damon made sure they found it in his home. He believed that food was love made visible, and he poured that love into every gathering he hosted.

He was also a gifted live auctioneer, bringing energy, humor, and heart to countless charitable events. People often joked that when Damon held the microphone, more money was raised than anyone thought possible. In truth, people gave because Damon inspired them to believe in something bigger than themselves.

Above all else, Damon was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, a proud father, a treasured son, beloved big brother, uncle, and dear friend. His greatest joy came from spending time with the people he loved most.

Damon is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer Facio Maddox; his cherished children, Shawn Maddox and Aydon Maddox, daughter-in-law Camille Maddox; his mother, Barbara Maddox; his sister, Liska Maddox, sister-in-law Miranda Lucero; his brother, Ramiro Maddox, sister-in-law, Karlie Maddox; his nieces and nephews; his uncle Richard, his uncle and aunt, Mike and Pam Maddox; his cousins, Matthew, Chris, and Amanda Maddox; his mother-in-law, Elsie Trujillo; and his beloved pets, Gabby, Mr. Peanutbutter, and Stella Wella. So, so many more relatives who loved him dearly from the Regensberg, Maddox and Trujillo families.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jim Maddox.

Though Damon left this world far too soon, the impact of his life will continue to ripple through the countless people he touched. His laughter echoes in family stories, his generosity lives on in the community he helped build, and his love remains woven into the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Damon leaves behind an extraordinary legacy-not measured by titles, accomplishments, or businesses, but by the lives he enriched and the love he shared. That legacy lives on most powerfully in his sons, Shawn and Aydon, who carry forward his generous spirit, his love of family, his sense of humor, and the countless lessons he imparted through a life well lived. Though his time on earth was far too short, the love he poured into his family and community will continue to shine for generations to come.

As we mourn his passing, we celebrate the remarkable man he was and carry forward the lessons he taught us: to love generously, laugh often, sing always, welcome everyone, and never leave an empty seat at the table.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our Damon.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Big Brother's Big Sisters, Little League Challenger Division and Popejoy Broadway for teens.