Thomas Esparza, Jr.

Thomas Esparza, Jr., of Lubbock, Texas, passed away on May 30, 2026, at the age of 69. Born on February 4, 1957, in Levelland, Texas, Thomas was the son of Thomas Esparza, Sr. and Hermenejilda (Estrada) Esparza. Throughout his life, he exemplified integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public service.

Thomas began his distinguished law enforcement career with the Lubbock Police Department in September 1979, serving first in the Patrol Division. Over the course of more than three decades with the department, he served in numerous leadership capacities, including Investigations, Administration, and the Police Academy, steadily advancing through the ranks through dedication, professionalism, and leadership. He was also a founding member of the Lubbock Professional Police Association, helping establish an organization dedicated to supporting and representing law enforcement officers.

In January 2004, he was promoted to Assistant Chief of Police and initially oversaw the Investigations Division before later assuming leadership of the Patrol Division, where he faithfully served until his retirement from the Lubbock Police Department in April 2012. Upon his retirement, Thomas held the distinction of being the highest-ranking Hispanic officer in the history of the department, having attained the rank of Assistant Chief of Police.

Following his retirement from the Lubbock Police Department, Thomas continued his commitment to public service as Chief of Police for the Littlefield Police Department. In 2015, he became Chief of Police for the Idalou Independent School District Police Department, where he served until his official retirement in December 2020.

In addition to his law enforcement career, Thomas served on the Board of Directors for WesTex Federal Credit Union for more than 30 years, contributing his time and leadership to the continued success of the organization. He was a longtime member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church.

While Thomas was respected for his professional accomplishments, those who knew him best will remember the man behind the badge. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. For 28 years, he shared a loving marriage with the love of his life, Tammy. He was immensely proud of his son, Trey, and found tremendous joy in becoming a grandfather to Tommy. Time spent with his family was among his greatest treasures.

Thomas was a mentor and father figure to anyone who needed guidance, encouragement, or simply someone to listen. He had a unique ability to make people feel safe and valued. Generous with his time, talents, and resources, he never hesitated to help others and quietly made a difference in countless lives.

Known for his courage, strong sense of right and wrong, and strategic mind, Thomas was a natural leader who was always thinking ahead. Yet he balanced those qualities with a warm smile, a hearty laugh, and a mischievous sense of humor. He loved being outdoors and was well known for his practical jokes and playful troublemaking, bringing laughter to family, friends, and coworkers alike.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Tammy Esparza; his son, Thomas Esparza, III and wife, Kim; his grandson, Thomas Esparza, IV; his brother, Julian Esparza of Levelland; and many other extended family members.

Thomas will be remembered for his integrity, courage, steady leadership, and lifelong dedication to service. His influence and example will continue to be felt by the many lives he touched throughout his distinguished career and personal life. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the officers he mentored, the friends he encouraged, and the community he faithfully served.

The Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church Chapel. Mass is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, with interment to follow at the City of Lubbock Cemetery.