Billy Sam Parmer

Billy Sam Parmer, age 85 died Wednesday, February 7, 2018 at his home in Tucumcari, NM. He was born December 29, 1932 in Killeen, Texas to the home of Emma Heuss Parmer and Johnnie Alvin Parmer. He spent his younger years in Killeen and moved with his family to Tucumcari in 1948. He graduated from Tucumcari High School in 1950. Billy served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean conflict. He then pursued his education at Eastern New Mexico University where he earned his degree in Geology in 1959.Billy married Beth Barnhill May 29, 1959. The couple moved to House in 1960 an later began managing the Barnhill ranch where they lived and worked until 1994 when they moved to Tucumcari. Billy maintained his interest in ranching until his death.Billy was a member of House United Methodist Church, Melrose Masonic Lodge #39, and Tucumcari Masonic Lodge #27. Some of his interests include fishing, reading, and fossil hunting on the ranch. He enjoyed visiting with his farming friends at the Tucumcari "Agriplex" and the House Coop., and he enjoyed his coffee drinking friends each morning at McDonald's. His special pride and joy were his children and grandchildren.Billy's parents and brother Jerry Callen preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife Beth Parmer of Tucumcari; his daughters, Jane McCharen and husband Richard of Tulsa, OK; Myra Stafford and husband Darrin of White Rock, NM; and son Carl Parmer of the family ranch at House, NM. Also surviving are granddaughters Nicole and Natalie Stafford, Hailey Frame, Catie McCharen, Taylor Parmer, Summer Huizar; grandsons Branden Parmer and Kyle Parmer; and his sister Betty Reagan and family of Temecula, CA.Honoring Billy's request, no funeral services are planned.All arrangements are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 830 N. Fifth Street, Fort Sumner, New Mexico. (575) 355-2311.