Mystery Writer, Tony Hillerman

Mystery writer Tony Hillerman was born in Oklahoma on 5/27/1925. In October, 2008, at the age of 83, he passed away due to pulmonary failure.

Hillerman enlisted in the Army in 1943 and fought during World War II for two years in Europe. He was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. After he was released from the Army in 1945, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Oklahoma. He then began a career in Journalism and wrote for two small-town newspapers in Oklahoma. In 1963, he relocated to the Southwest and that area became his home. In 1963, he earned his Master's degree in English from the University of New Mexico. After graduation, he became a member of the English staff and taught there until 1987. He was the chair of the English Department and remained in that position from 1976-1981.

He is best known for the novels he writes about the Southwest, especially mysteries written about the Navajo Indians. His novels were primarily set in the Four Corners area of New Mexico and Arizona. Throughout his life, Hillerman was a consistent best-selling author and in 1966 he was ranked as one of New Mexico's 22nd wealthiest men. His novels have been made into television movies with some on the big-screen as well. Hillerman remained in Albuquerque until his death with his wife of 60 years, Marie. They have six grown children.