Dr. Thomas L. Matula, beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, economist, researcher, and pioneer in the field of space commerce, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, kindness, and unwavering compassion.

Tom earned both his Ph.D. and MBA from New Mexico State University, where he completed his doctoral dissertation on the Southwest Regional Spaceport, now known as Spaceport America. Throughout his distinguished academic career, he taught strategic management and economics, inspiring countless students with his passion for learning and innovation.

A visionary in online education, Tom developed one of the nation's first online MBA programs at National University in 1998, helping shape the future of distance learning. More recently, he created an MBA in Space Commerce at Sul Ross State University, further advancing a field he helped pioneer. His numerous publications in space commerce, marketing, strategic management, and online education earned him recognition as a respected scholar and thought leader. He also served on the Board of Directors of Space Renaissance International and contributed to the Space Renaissance Academy, where he remained committed to advancing humanity's future in space.

While Tom's professional accomplishments were remarkable, those who knew him best will remember him most for the person he was. He possessed extraordinary intelligence but wore it with humility. He led with kindness, patience, curiosity, and compassion, always treating others with respect and generously sharing his knowledge. He believed deeply in helping others and made a lasting impact on the lives of his students, colleagues, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Tom was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Jenny Matula, and a loving father figure who embraced not only a marriage but an entire family. Through his unwavering support, guidance, and unconditional love, he demonstrated that family is defined not only by blood, but by commitment, kindness, and presence.

He was also a proud grandfather who found immense joy in watching his grandchildren grow. He celebrated their accomplishments, shared his wisdom freely, and created treasured memories that will live on through them for years to come.

Tom's compassion extended beyond people to the many rescue animals he welcomed into his home. He believed every animal deserved love, safety, and a second chance, and he opened his heart and home to those in need.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife, Jenny Matula; his stepdaughters, Johanna Engels, Allie Bang, and Ellie Redmond; and his 6 grandchildren, Angel, Aja, Alex, Aleiya, Kensal, and Charlie.

Dr. Thomas L. Matula will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking contributions to education and space commerce but also for the kindness, generosity, and quiet strength that defined his life. His legacy lives on through his family, his students, his colleagues, his friends, and the countless lives he touched with his wisdom, compassion, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.