Robert James Hastings

Jim Hastings, 78, of El Paso, Texas, passed away March 24, 2026, in Denver, CO. He was a beloved father, uncle and friend as well as a cherished member of the El Paso community where he was born and raised and where he spent most of his life.

Jim graduated from Gadsden High School, then went on to earn degrees in mass communications from New Mexico State University and Texas Tech University. He was a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War, serving in the USAF. He worked for Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso directing public relations and marketing from day one and was instrumental in bringing the institution to El Paso in 1985. He retired after 38 years.

Jim was a Master Gardener and an active member of the El Paso Cactus and Rock Club as well as the El Paso Chapter of the New Mexico Native Plant Society. Combining that with his lifelong interest in cooking, he came to be known as the “Gringo Gourmet” as he would be invited to all kinds of conferences, meetings, and cooking demonstrations where he showcased dishes using ingredients of the desert Southwest, especially nopalitos. In later years, he also served as board member at the Anthony Community Cemetery. He was a wine connoisseur, home improvement handyman, and among the best two-steppers in Texas.

Jim is survived by his daughters Amanda Drazin and Emily Hastings of Denver, CO; nieces Maria Covington of La Mesa, NM and Karen Golden of Havre, MT; ex-wife Nancy DeWitt of Pueblo, CO; and three generations of nieces and nephews who knew he was a “Really GREAT Great-Uncle Jimmy. He is preceded in death by his parents Jewel and Lorene Hastings of Anthony, NM; sister Arlene Covington of Anthony, NM; brother Charlie Hastings of Tucson, AZ; nephew Robert Don Covington, and best friend, Jack Makepeace of El Paso, TX.

Graveside funeral services will be held at the Anthony Community Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials in Jim’s name can be made to the Anthony Community Cemetery where he served on the board of directors or to the Muttlove Dog Rescue in honor of his beloved dogs, Ebr and Crusher.