Thomas Charles Esquibel

Thomas Charles Esquibel 

1950-2023  

Thomas Charles Esquibel passed away at the age of 73 in San Jose, Calif., on Nov. 28, 2023, on a bright, sunny morning surrounded by his beloved family after a courageous battle with cancer.  

Tom was born Sept. 17, 1950, to Ezequiel and Emma Esquibel, and had six brothers, Ezekiel, Frank, Joe, Edwin, Donald and John.  

As a child, he attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Belen. There, he learned to speak English in school with Catholic nuns as his teachers. He has described this education and experience as formative in his life and giving him a drive to achieve and persevere beyond people’s expectations of him.  

Tom was outgoing and intelligent throughout his life. He truly loved life and people. He attended the University of New Mexico and became an attorney in 1975. In 1980, at the age of 30, he won a campaign to become the youngest district attorney in the history of the country.  

His cases varied from divorce law to criminal law. He was a very talented attorney and most people in the small towns he and his family were from knew of him and would often call on him when they needed legal advice or help.   

Tom was proudest of his family — his children and grandchildren. He was selfless in his love and care. If there was any way to help anyone, he would be there in an instant. His grandchildren would describe him as very silly and willing to play, listen, cook or drive them anywhere they needed at a moment’s notice. He will be greatly missed by family and friends near and far.  

Thomas is survived by his three children, Franchesca Perez, Carlos Esquibel and Eric Esquibel; his grandchildren, Emma Perez, Hector Esquibel, Keona Perez, Brandon Esquibel and Jayda Esquibel; brothers, Frank Esquibel (Mary Rita), Joe Esquibel (Peggy) and John Esquibel (Ruby); sisters-in-law, Kathy Esquibel and Alice Esquibel; and many lifelong friends and extended family.  

Thomas was preceded in death by his loving parents, Ezequiel and Emma Esquibel; and his brothers, Ezekiel (Alice), Edwin (Kathy) and Donald.  

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, Feb. 23, starting with visitation at 8:30 a.m., Mass at 10 a.m., with speakers just prior to Mass at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church.