Tomas S. Palacios of Superior passed away on Monday, December 12, 2022. Tomas was born on June 18, 1945, to Hilario and Jessie Palacios in Los Angeles, California. The family moved to Jerome, Arizona, then moved to Superior, Arizona, making that their final move. Ironically, moving to 207 Pinal Ave., next door to the Gallegos family. Tomas became friends with Gloria Gallegos, they attended the same schools, became sweethearts from the sixth to the eighth grade, and they got married at eighteen years old on November 15, 1965.

Tomas began working for Magma Copper Company in 1967 and stayed until the mine closed in 1982.Tomas then moved with his family to Alameda, California, and worked as a handyman for almost two years. He was offered a job as a mechanic supervisor for Freeport McMoran in Tembagapura, Indonesia, for three years until he was injured and had to return to the United States, moving back into their home of fifty-three years in Superior. A home that originally was from Ray Sonora , Arizona. Everyone knew that Tomas had a passion for carpentry. He was a hard-working man who strived for perfection and took great pride in his work. He enjoyed his time in Florence, Arizona, in prison ministry. He was a motivator, inspiring people to never give up. He loved giving a hand to those in need, both emotionally and spiritually.  He had a great sense of humor and found joy in making people laugh.

Tomas was a great husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed being around his family. Tomas was known as "Tio Tom" for many, even those who were not even family, and he loved it. His favorite food was homemade tortillas, and he always asked women if they knew how to make them. However, he enjoyed a nice bowl of butter pecan ice cream and tapped the empty bowl with his spoon for a second serving. Tomas loved learning new things. When Google came out, if someone did not know the answer to his question, he'd say, "Google it!".

Tomas is survived by his wife, Gloria Palacios, of fifty-eight years. Followed by his daughter, Diana Palacios Garcia. He has one grandson, Israel P. Fuentes, and two granddaughters, Monique Vitalia Garcia and Crystal Ivon Garcia. Tomas has five brothers: Larry Palacios, Joe (TJ) Palacios, Autry Palacios, Alex (Cala) Palacios, and Gilbert Palacios.

Tomas was a true friend and was loved by many. He will truly be missed and is forever imprinted in our hearts.