Toby Padilla

Toby Padilla, age 71, of Silver City, New Mexico, passed away on January 14, 2026.

Toby was a man who truly loved life and the people in it. He had a gift for joy and connection—whether through listening to his favorite oldies, sharing a good laugh, or lighting up a room with his sense of humor. Known as a jokester and rarely without a smile, Toby brought warmth and laughter wherever he went.

A hardworking man, Toby spent many years as a miner and construction worker, careers that reflected his strong work ethic and resilience.  A man full of knowledge and curiosity, Toby loved meaningful conversation and could talk for hours about history, politics, and the Bible. His faith was central to who he was, guiding his outlook on life and shaping the wisdom he so freely shared with others.

He will be deeply missed for his late-night messages to friends and family—often filled with music videos, prayers, and his signature little memes. Those messages brought comfort, laughter, and a sense of connection, and they captured the heart of who Toby was. Those small moments were pure Toby and meant more than words can say.

 Toby was preceded in death by his father, Gilbert; his sister, Debbie; and his brother, Victor.  He is survived by his children, Toby Jr., Gladys, Alicia, and Annalisa; his mother, Irene (Nena); his siblings, Andy (Patricia), Rudy, Gilbert, and Richard; his sister-in-law, Gail; and his grandchildren, Anthony, Fabian, Antonio, Christopher, Cassandra, and Bianca. He is also survived by several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who loved him dearly.

Toby’s memory will live on in the laughter he shared, the faith he demonstrated, and the love he gave so freely to all who knew him.