Serving the High Plains
Serving the High Plains
Robert Lumpkin died July 17 at his home; he was 71.
Robert Lumpkin
TUCUMCARI - Longtime resident, former educator, Marine veteran and Tucumcari Mayor pro-tem Robert Lumpkin has passed away following an extended illness at his home in Tucumcari.
Lumpkin, 71, passed away on July 17, at his residence, said Bobbi Sandoval, Lumpkin's daughter.
Lumpkin was serving as the District 4 City Commissioner and mayor pro-tem (2018-2022). He had also served as Mayor (2014-2016).
Robert Lumpkin had served as a city commissioner since Oct. 2007, said Angelica Gray, City Clerk.
Sandoval said her father was more of a statesman than a politician. She said he stepped out from his career of teaching students right into serving the community.
During his time as commissioner, Lumpkin spoke in Washington DC., advocating for renewable wind energy projects in Quay County. Lumpkin was also the city's longtime representative appointed to the preservation of the city's, county's water rights at Ute Lake Reservoir.
There will be no discussion about appointing a new mayor pro-tem or commissioner to fill Lumpkin's vacancy until Thursday's city commission meeting, said Britt Lusk, City Manager.
"It is a truly sad time for Lumpkin's family and the city," Lusk said. "The loss is deeply felt by all, but unfortunately the city has to continue forward."
Lusk said Lumpkin's passing is a huge loss to the community. He said despite being new to the job, he is aware of the impact Lumpkin has had serving the residents of Tucumcari.
Lumpkin is a Vietnam War veteran serving in the United States Marine Corps. from 1964-1967.
Lumpkin was a teacher at Tucumcari High School for 25 years (1972-1997), said Dave Johnson, Tucumcari assistant superintendent.
According to family friend Sue Dowell's social media post:
A memorial service celebrating the life of Robert Lumpkin will be held at 2 p.m. on Aug. 4 at Rattler Gym in Tucumcari.
In lieu of flowers, people are being asked to donate to the Robert Lumpkin Memorial Fund at the First National Bank of New Mexico in Tucumcari. The money raised will be used for a memorial at Tucumcari High School and/or the City of Tucumcari.