Taos Pueblo tribal elder, Thomas J. Lujan Jr., passed away at age 89, on December 26, 2025. A respected community leader, Veteran of the National Guard, former Tribal Lieutenant Governor (2008) and Lieutenant War Chief (1996, 4th in command) representing different generations and roles within New Mexico politics.

He attended Brigham Young University and served in various roles in the community. He worked at Taos Mountain Casino, Indian Education Director for Taos Municipal School, Director for BIA Eight Northern Indian Pueblos Agency Alcohol Program, Member of the National Indian Board of Alcohol and Drug Prevention, National Congress of American Indians and has testified on many of tribal issues before U.S. Congress.

We remember Tom as someone who talked candidly about politics, about his children and grandchildren. He shared stories about his life in the communities he resided in. He was dedicated to his religious beliefs, he was known for counseling many through difficult times, advocating for sobriety, and urging younger generations to prioritize education and independence.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas J. Lujan Sr., and Emily M., his brother Earl D. Lujan. His brother Christopher Lujan joined his family on January 18, 2026.

He is survived by his sister Florence Chavez, mother of his 6 children Albenita O. Lujan, Bernadette Lujan-Mirabal (Ponce+), Charlotte Lujan, Rico Lujan (Edith), Thomas Lujan, Theresa Terry (Tim), Patrita “Ime” Salazar (Gary). Mother of children to Thomasina Lujan and Dylan Lujan. Four great-grandchildren, Eleven grandchildren, Six godchildren, many nephews, nieces, friends and relatives.