Shawn Timothy Willden, 26, of Kirtland, NM passed away on January 8, 2026. He was born on May 19, 1999, in Farmington, NM to Justin Willden (D) and Karen Hufford (Willden).

Shawn was born to Ma’ii Deeshgiizhinni and Born for Bilagaana.

Shawn had a deep love for cars – fast cars, unique cars and especially right-side steering wheel cars. Cars weren’t just a hobby for him; they were a passion. When Shawn talked about cars, you would see the excitement in him – it was truly one of the things that made his eyes light up and he was happy. Shawn was part of a car club here in Farmington. Creating music, different beats and piano chords was also a deep passion of Shawn's. During those times he was his happiest.

He had a generous and giving heart, especially when it came to his grandma and grandpa. Shawn spent many hours helping them- whether it was shoveling rocks, helping with vehicle repairs, burning weeds, or just simply driving them around (most times a little too fast). He did these things with love and compassion, just to help the two people he loved deeply. Shawn shared a special bond with his grandparents.

Shawn also leaves behind two of the best people that he could have ever had in his life- Mikko and Miah. They met back in middle school and watched one another grow from children into adults. They took different paths- Mikko working at the hospital. Miah serving in the military, and Shawn being Shawn- but no matter where in life took them, their bond remained.

He is preceded in death by: His father Justin S. Willden, his maternal grandfather Johnny E. Begay. Paternal grandfather Donald Timothy Willden and his paternal great grandmother Grace Willden.

Shawn is survived by Mother Karen Hufford (Samuel Myers) Brother: Shayne Begay (Royce Burbank) Sister: Samanthan Willden. Maternal grandparents: Pete and Anne Baloo. Paternal great grandpa Kenneth Willden.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM on January 15, 2026, at Farmington Funeral Home. Officiated by Pastor Michael Aguillard from Kirtland Baptist Church

Interment will be at Crestview Memorial Cemetery in Colorado on a later date.