Henry James Young Jr., a devoted husband, father, educator, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, at his beloved 1/4 Ranch. He was surrounded by his family in the place he cherished most.

Born in Clovis, New Mexico, on August 23, 1937, to Henry James and Lois June Young, Jim's early years were shaped by the grit of ranch life. After moving from Quay, New Mexico, to Texas, and eventually to South Dakota, Jim's resilience was forged in the legendary blizzards of the north. A defining moment occurred in the seventh grade when Jim and his rope horse navigated a white-out blizzard, safely breaking through snowbanks to reach home-an event that prompted the family's move to Crane, Texas. Jim lived in Crane until he was 13 years old before moving to Las Vegas, New Mexico.

In Las Vegas, Jim excelled as a three-year varsity running back (number 52) for Robertson High School. Under his father's watchful eye, he honed his skills in horsemanship and training, beginning a lifelong legacy that he would eventually pass down to his children and grandchildren.

Jim attended Colorado A&M to play football but returned home to manage the family business following his father's heart attack. He completed his education at New Mexico Highlands University, graduating on June 4, 1960. The very next day, June 5, he married the love of his life, Walta Hollingsworth. Their union was a testament to enduring devotion, lasting 65 years, 10 months, and 13 days.

A pillar of the San Juan County community, Jim's professional life was defined by service. He taught in Bloomfield for 23 years, serving as Athletic Director and coaching an undefeated football team and cross-country team. Known for his compassion, he frequently drove players home after practice and hauled neighborhood children to rodeos, ensuring no child missed an opportunity to participate.

Jim's civic contributions were vast. As a San Juan County Commissioner for eight years, he was instrumental in the construction of the McGee Park indoor arena, the completion of the San Juan Regional Hospital, and the establishment of multiple fire stations. He further served his constituents as a State Representative for District 69.

In the equestrian world, Jim was a founding member of the New Mexico Quarter Horse Association and a life member of the AQHA. He trained and showed four AQHA Champions, showed numerous world championship qualifiers, and raised the Show Mare of the Year. He and Walta also owned and operated Windmill Western Wear in Bloomfield and Farmington for 12 years.

Jim was a man of quick wit, profound wisdom, and an unwavering faith in Christ. He is survived by his wife, Walta; his children, William Raymond Young (Candace) and Cheryl Dawn Grau (Lane); six grandchildren: Colten Grau (Marca), Curtis Young (Shawna), Katarina Grau Richardson (Ryan), Marietta Young Rader (Zane), Kaitlin Grau Osborn (Cimmaron), and Kristin Grau; and eight great-grandchildren.

He leaves behind a legacy of strength, community spirit, and an infinite love for his family. Jim Young lived a life as expansive as the New Mexico horizon he called home.