Thomas “Tom” Enez Hernandez, 66, of Riverton, Wyoming, passed away on March 9, 2025, at Help for Health Hospice Home. He was born on January 14, 1959, in Riverton, Wyoming, to Enez and Georgia (Abeyta) Hernandez.
Tom was baptized into the Catholic faith and served as an altar boy in his youth. He graduated from Riverton High School with the Class of 1977 and later earned a degree from Central Wyoming College in 2004. He spent most of his life in Riverton, where he built a legacy of love, dedication, and service.
In 1979, Tom married Glenda Romero, and together they had two wonderful children, Michael and Jamie. Though they later parted ways, Tom found love again with Barbette Smith, whom he finally convinced to marry him in 2002. Barbette had three sons, and together, they created a fantastic blended family.
Tom was an active member of Riverton Elks Lodge #1693, serving as Exalted Ruler from 2021 to 2022. He was also honored to be the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks National District Deputy for the Grand Exalted Ruler from 2020 to 2022.
His strong work ethic began in high school when he worked as a farming equipment operator for his grandparents. After graduation, he worked for Luck Mac as an oiler before pursuing a career in the oilfield as a workover rig operator. His career took him around the world, including Russia, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, South America, Uzbekistan, Estonia, California, and Wyoming.
After suffering an injury on the rig, Tom attended Central Wyoming College. Following his graduation, he worked for School District #25 for 14 years as an Indian Education Liaison, where he made a lasting impact on many students. He also sponsored the Multicultural Club, forming lifelong relationships with students. Later, he worked at Job Corps as a Community Preparation Teacher for five years. He retired when COVID-19 hit but found joy in his role as “Poppa” to his grandchildren, a wonderful father to all his children, and a devoted husband. He was also an enthusiastic fan of all things University of Wyoming.
Tom is survived by his loving wife, Barbette Hernandez; sons, Michael (Lauren) Hernandez, Toby Smith, Tyler (Krysta) Smith, and Travis (Nashira) Smith; daughter, Jamie (Eric) Slyter; brothers, Phillip (Kay) Hernandez and Tim Mitchell; and his cherished grandchildren, Chloe Morlang, Curtis Smith, Sophia Smith, and Tallula Smith.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Enez and Georgia Hernandez, and his sister, Cricket Mitchell.
Memorial contributions may be made to Help for Health Hospice in care of Davis Funeral Home, 2203 West Main Street, Riverton, WY 82501.
Tom will be remembered for his kindness, dedication to his family and community, and the countless lives he touched throughout his journey. He will be deeply missed.
On-line condolences for Tom’s family may be made at TheDavisFuneralHome.com
Arrangements under the direction of Davis Funeral Home, Crematory, and Monuments.