Justin Alan Hood

Justin Alan Hood, 37, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, was welcomed home to his Higher Power on December 25, 2023. 

Justin was born on June 1, 1986 which made him a Gemini and is the Year of the Tiger, which he related to and referenced often, being the symbolic person that he was. His kind, sensitive, and creative soul was so evident throughout his life. 

He loved his family deeply. He shared a pure and loving bond with his sister, Stephanie; they were each other's biggest cheerleaders. Justin and his mom, Shannon, shared a special love for animals, from cats to dogs to horses. They also enjoyed bantering about politics with each other. Most recently, he drove up Highway One with his dad, Randy, riding on the back of his Harley as he often did as a young boy.

Justin was creative from a young age. He would DJ house parties in his teen years, enjoyed breakdancing, and always had a great passion for music. He listened to everything, including hip-hop, rock, and his grandmother's classics. He also had a strong love of sports and spent many years playing football, where he met and bonded with many of his lifelong friends. Many of Justin’s friendships were formed in his childhood years and during his time at both Grant and Eisenhower Middle School and at Eldorado High School. He graduated high school in 2004 and began college that year at the University of New Mexico. He was the first in his family to graduate from college, earning a degree in Journalism and Communications. 

Justin was very proud of his Albuquerque roots and gave a tremendous amount back to the community. He was one of the original pioneers behind the creation of Warehouse 508, a non-profit venue that invests in Albuquerque’s youth by providing a place to learn and develop skills under mentorship within the creative arts.

He channeled his talents and expertise into a career in the creative field, working at global advertising agencies in New York City and Los Angeles. His career took him all over the world professionally. He also traveled often with his friends and family, always returning with a new lens on life, others, and himself. Justin dedicated his passion and talent to the world, leaving his mark on both the artistic landscape and the advertising industry. His creative endeavors were not only a testament to his skill but also a reflection of the genuine kindness that defined him. 

On August 28, 2014, his beautiful daughter Miranda was welcomed into this world. His greatest joys were spending time with Miranda, having joke-offs with her, and showing her creative outlets. Her outfits were as colorful as his. He held his relationship with her and Miranda’s family dear to his heart.

While in NYC, ABQ, and LA, Justin worked on a path of recovery and finding peace within his journey. His fellows held a grounding place in his heart, and he expressed endless gratitude for their guidance and support. His family, friends, and fellows were proud of him until his last days. 

He will be missed so dearly by us all.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, January 12th at 10:00 am at FRENCH-Lomas, followed by a reception at Warehouse 505 (formerly Warehouse 508) located at 202 Central Avenue SE Albuquerque New Mexico 87102.

If you would like to contribute during this time please donate to Justin’s Celebration of Life Go Fund Me (https://www.gofundme.com/f/justin-hood-funeral-expenses?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer) or flowers directly to FRENCH-Lomas at 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87112.