In Loving Memory of Thomas Christopher Ornelas
January 31, 1998 – September 12, 2026
Thomas Christopher Ornelas, 28, of Lordsburg, New Mexico, peacefully passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, in Lordsburg. Thomas was born on January 31, 1998, in Silver City, New Mexico, to Ana and Rudy Ornelas Sr. He was raised in Lordsburg; the community he continued to call home throughout his life.
Thomas attended Lordsburg High School and later worked as a laborer for the City of Lordsburg. Those who knew Thomas knew him as a loving, kind, selfless, outgoing, and incredibly loyal person. He loved deeply, cared for the people around him, and had a way of making his presence known wherever he went. Above all, Thomas was a God-fearing man whose faith remained an important part of who he was.
Thomas enjoyed the simple things that made life good. He loved music, UFC, especially cheering on Justin Gaethje, wrestling, cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, and spending time with his beloved dog, Brodie. More than anything, he treasured being surrounded by the people he loved. Some of his happiest moments were spent hanging out, laughing, and making memories with his brothers Marco, Jesus, and Micheal; his sisters Chanel, Gabby, and Tristyn; and the rest of his family.
Thomas was a son, brother, uncle, godfather, family member, and friend whose loyalty and love for those closest to him will never be forgotten. His life was far too short, but the love he gave, the memories he created, and the impact he had on those who knew him will continue to live on.
Thomas is survived by his loving parents, Ana and Rudy Ornelas Sr.; his brothers, Samuel Ornelas and Rudy Ornelas Jr., and Rudy's partner, Betsy Jane; his nephews, Adrian and Leighton Ornelas; his goddaughter, Karson Plowman; his beloved dog, Brodie; and many other family members and friends who loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Francisco S. Aguilera; his maternal aunt, Maria Lus Rojas; his paternal grandfather, Urbano Ornelas; and his paternal grandmother, Esperanza Ornelas.
Thomas will be remembered for his kind heart, his selflessness, his loyalty, his outgoing spirit, his love for his family, and most importantly, his faith in God. Although his family would have given anything for more time with him, they find comfort in knowing that the faith Thomas carried throughout his life has now brought him home.
His absence will be felt every day, but so will his love. Thomas will live on through every story told, every memory shared, every song that brings him to mind, and every person fortunate enough to have been loved by him.
Forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.
Services for Thomas will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church beginning with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 in the morning led by MariaElena Roybal. The Memorial Mass will then commence at 11 followed by the rite of committal and inurnment at Shakespeare Cemetery. Fr. Jude Okonkwo will be officiating. Cremation has been entrusted to Baca's Mimbres Crematory.
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