Bill M. Rich

Bill M. Rich, 79, of Martin Lane, Carlsbad, NM, passed away Tuesday, November 26, 2013 at his home. There will be no public visitation. A Graveside service is scheduled for Friday, November 29, 2013, 2:00 PM, at Carlsbad Cemetery with Chaplain Terry McKean officiating. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Bill M. Rich was born March 5, 1934 in Romney, Texas to Murton and Willie (Ogden) Rich. He attended school in Denver City, Texas. Bill married Patsy Collier on December 22, 1951 in Carlsbad. He completed training with General Motors Mechanic School and worked as a mechanic for many years. Bill was a contract well operator and pumper for a number of years as well. He was an accomplished musician and steel guitar player. Bill completed courses thru the International School of Music. He was a devoted father, loving husband and cherished his time with his grandchildren. Bill and his wife, Patsy were professional roller skate dancers and members of the National Retiree Motorcycle Group. He was a member of Christ's church and worshipped at the Southside congregation. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 56 years, Patsy G. Rich; daughter, Barbara Langley; brothers: Winkem and Nathan Rich and sister Mildred Husselman. He is survived by daughter, Diana Yeager and husband, Jeff of Carlsbad, NM; grandchildren: Shane McLeod and wife, Julia, Shawna Yates, Melissa Swagerty and husband, Jason, Tisha Hinojos and husband, Alfie, Misty Proctor and Shawn Mitchell, Jamie Rhoades and husband, Daniel, Judith Yeager and Will Maxey; 13 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-granddaughter and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, P. O. Box 1856, Clovis, NM 88101- 1856. Condolences may be expressed at dentonwood.com.