James Richard Hiles Sr.

James Richard Hiles Sr., age 75, passed away Sunday, February 18, 2024, in El Paso, Texas. He was born in Alamogordo, New Mexico on March 21, 1948, to Jim and Margaret Hiles. Bent, New Mexico was home, though he spent many of his days in Mescalero, New Mexico where he would meet his future wife and best friend, Melinda. James and Melinda Hiles married on October 25, 1967, in El Paso, Texas. They would go on to become proud parents, grandparents, and great grandparents.

James was employed by the Mescalero Apache Tribe for many years, where he put his countless skills to use throughout his positions. From Tribal Maintenance to the Housing Department, and the Cattle Grower’s Association. He eventually went on to become the Foreman of the Mescalero Roads Department, hanging up his hat for retirement after 47 total years of service with the tribe.

James is survived by his children, Tarena Hiles (Kerry Enjady), Patrick Hiles (Sonya Hiles), and Jodi Hiles-Cojo (Jody Cojo); brothers, Michael Hiles and family, along with Elbert Hiles and family; 19 grandchildren and 34 great grandchildren; and his four-legged companion named “Chapo”. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Melinda Hiles; parents, Jim and Margaret Hiles; daughter, Eugenia Mendez; son, James Hiles Jr.; brothers, Eric (Rick) Hiles, and Mark Hiles. 

Services will be held on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Mission Catholic Church in Mescalero, New Mexico. Viewing will begin at 9:00 AM, Rosary at 9:30 AM, and Mass at 10:00 AM with burial to follow at the Hiles Family Cemetery in Bent, New Mexico.

The Hiles family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the funeral services.

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