Rex Lee Jim

Rex Lee Jim, a revered Navajo politician, distinguished poet, dedicated educator, and traditional medicine man, passed away on February 24, 2026, at the age of 63. His life was a testament to his profound commitment to the Diné people, their language, culture, and sovereignty. Jim's multifaceted career left an indelible mark on the Navajo Nation and indigenous communities worldwide, as he tirelessly advocated for their rights and cultural preservation. His passing is a significant loss to all who knew him and were touched by his wisdom and leadership.

Born in 1962 in Rock Point, Arizona, Rex Lee Jim was deeply rooted in the traditions of his homeland. He was raised by his grandparents, who imparted to him the sacred Blessing Way ceremonies, a cornerstone of Diné spirituality, and instilled in him a deep appreciation for his heritage. Jim pursued a comprehensive education, attending Rock Point Community School, the Newfound School, and the Colorado Rocky Mountain School before graduating from Princeton University in 1986. He furthered his academic pursuits, earning a master's degree in English from Middlebury in 2001, demonstrating his lifelong dedication to learning and intellectual growth.

Jim's political career was marked by significant service to the Navajo Nation. He served as a respected member of the Navajo Nation Council from 2003 to 2011, representing his community with integrity and foresight. His leadership culminated in his tenure as the Vice President of the Navajo Nation from January 11, 2011, to May 12, 2015, serving alongside President Ben Shelly. Beyond his domestic roles, Jim was a prominent advocate for indigenous peoples on the international stage, notably participating in the drafting and passage of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 2007.

As an educator, Rex Lee Jim taught at the Rock Point Community School, where he developed culturally and pedagogically appropriate curricula for Navajo students from kindergarten through graduate-level programs. He also directed Diné College's teacher-education program from 1992 to 2002, shaping a new generation of Navajo educators. A prolific author, his poetry collections, including "Áhí Ni' Nikisheegiizh" (1989) and "Saad" (1995), beautifully articulated the Diné language, culture, and storytelling traditions. His work as a poet, playwright, and medicine man underscored his unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural tapestry of the Navajo Nation.

Rex Lee Jim's legacy is one of profound cultural stewardship, dedicated public service, and intellectual leadership. He skillfully bridged traditional Navajo wisdom with contemporary challenges, leaving behind a powerful example of how to honor one's heritage while striving for progress. His contributions to education, literature, and indigenous rights will continue to inspire and guide future generations within the Navajo Nation and beyond. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he enriched.