Thomas James Hynes

Thomas James Hynes Jr., age 83, passed away on March 21, 2025. Tom was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on July 16, 1941, to Thomas J. Hynes, Sr., and Betty Hynes. The family later moved to Albuquerque and then to Farmington where he was in the first class graduating from the new Farmington High School in 1959. He went on to receive his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Notre Dame, and Law Degree from Georgetown University in 1966.

During his last year of Law school, and two weeks from being too old to be drafted, Tom received notice that he had 15 days to enlist in a branch of the military. Inspired by watching too many John Wayne movies, Tom enlisted in the United States Marine Corps rather than taking advantage of an impending deferment. He went on to serve a tour of duty in Vietnam, was later promoted to Captain and awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious Service in 1968. This experience impacted him greatly. So much so that he wrote and published a book about it entitled, “It Wasn’t Like Nothing, One Marine's Adventure in Vietnam.”

After his tour in Vietnam, Tom served as a JAG Prosecutor at Camp Pendleton and then returned to Farmington and began practicing law with Wade Beavers. He later joined the Law firm of White & Caton, while working as part-time District Attorney. He then became the Eleventh Judicial District Attorney in 1975 when Ed DePauli became District Judge.

He then went on to form the law firm; Hynes, Eastburn & Hale which led to a long partnership with his best friend Kevin Hale. Over the years there were multiple third partners including Larry Thrower, Jack Fortner and Curtis Gurley. In 2003 when Kevin was battling cancer, Tom was appointed 11th Judicial District Court Judge by Governor Bill Richardson and elected to the post the following year. He then served 9 years on the bench from 2003 to 2012. 

Throughout his time in Farmington, Tom was an active member of the community as a member of the NM State Bar Association, Elks Club, and Knights of Columbus. He served as President of the San Juan Country Club, Board of Directors of the Farmington Boys and Girls Club, and was the San Juan County Democratic Party Chairman. Tom enjoyed boxing, he was Bengal Bouts Champion at Notre Dame in 1963 and judged many local amateur boxing matches. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and golfer. He played golf mostly to enjoy the comradery of his friends in the ‘swing group’ and less to become a good golfer. He loved Notre Dame Football and bragging about his grandkids (sometimes a little too much). He will be remembered most for his dry sense of humor, exceptional kindness and a great love for his family.

Tom was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Martha Molina Hynes, and his parents Thomas and Betty Hynes. While on the bench Tom tended to Martha in their home as she battled cancer.

He is survived by his son Tommy Hynes, wife Kim and their children Thomas (TJ) Hynes, and Kayla Hynes of Albuquerque. He is also survived by his daughter Maria Hynes of Farmington, his brother James Hynes and wife Donna of Castro Valley, CA and their children, and by his sister Betty Ann Locke and son of Salinas, CA.

He is also survived by his wife of 11 years, Guylyn Durham Hynes, and her daughter Carolyn and husband Mario Marquez and their children. Tom and Guylyn traveled and enjoyed their time together at their home in Farmington. Sadly, Tom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and his desire was to be at home and to enjoy life and enjoy they did. 

A Service will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, April 10th at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 2100 E. 20th St. in Farmington. Immediately following the Mass, Tom’s ashes will be placed in the Columbarium behind Saint Mary's Church. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

Those wishing to send condolences to the family may do so at www.brewerleelarkinfh.com refer to obituary listing.

Tom is under the care of Brewer, Lee & Larkin Funeral Home in Farmington, (505) 325-8688.