Billy Joe Piper

Billy Joe Piper passed away July 12, 2023, peacefully at his home with his wife of 62 years, Lois Piper by his side.

Billy was born in Lampasas, Texas on March 24, 1939, to Joe and Oveta Piper.  He was one of six children and is survived by Lois and three siblings, Molly Hilliard of Fort Worth, Jane Finch of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Burke Piper of Eagle Nest, New Mexico; his sister-in-law, Helen Davis of Las Cruces, New Mexico, and brother-in-law, Bob Ritchie of Melbourne, Australia.  He is also survived by his daughter, Leigh Piper; son-in-law, Timothy Martin, and their two children, Justin and Jordan Martin, along with five great-grandchildren and daughter, Lori Piper.

Billy graduated high school in Cimarron, New Mexico, and enrolled in New Mexico State University earning a degree in Biology with honors.  He was in ROTC and was commissioned as an officer in the Army after graduation.  He married his beloved Lois in 1961.

Billy served a distinguished and honorable 23 years in the Army, retiring with the rank of LTC.  He didn't believe in boasting but was awarded several medals and honors, including the Bronze Star while stationed in Vietnam.

Upon retirement from the Army, he began an almost 40-year second career as a defense contractor with a 15-year job as a range control officer on Fort Hood.  He finally retired from that field in 2019 to devote his time to his lifetime passion, the family farm.  He was a purveyor of hay and cows, with the last few years, mostly at rest.  He always said, "he'd rest easy once the last bale was delivered."  It may not have been the last bale, but he's now at rest.

Billy was a man who believed in God, country, and family.  His devotion to this trinity is part of his legacy.  He leaves behind a legacy of love, life, family, and friendships forged through decades.

The family and friends surviving him are vast.  To say that we are all grieving is not an understatement, but a statement of truth.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Veteran's Affairs.

In the words of Bill Piper, "Quit burnin' daylight"

Memorial services will be held at Grace Fellowship Church on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at 10 am with a private interment to follow.