Derrick, Billy

Billy Lloyd Derrick, 62, of Portales died Sunday, Feb. 5, 2006, at Plains Regional Medical Center.

He was born to Frank and Ina V. Belyeu-Derrick on Jan. 15, 1944, in Roswell.

He married Sarah Lee Derrick on May 18, 1963. She died in 1978.

Family members said he was a true cowboy. His profession included managing farms, cattle doctor, breaking and training horses.

He was preceded in death by his wife and his parents.

He is survived by eight children, Tonya Vineyard of Melrose, Sherry Horn of Ohio, Chellie Gillespie of Alabama, Rebecca Carrasco of Albuquerque, Connie Hartman of Holloman Air Force Base, Cherry Gallegos of Clovis, Crystal Hobbs of Portales and Billy Derrick Jr. of Tennessee; 17 grandchildren, Jessica Sanchez, Christopher Conner, John R. Woodcock IV, Sarah Woodcock, Sarah Conner, Callen Shane Mitchell, Cody Woodcock, Miranda Derrick, Kevin Mitchell, Justin Vineyard, Bradley Gillespie, Adam Hobbs, Olivia Carrasco, Tyler Derrick, Gavin Hartman, Jake Gallegos and Ethan Derrick; four great-grandchildren; his partner, Sharon Grippin of Portales; and a brother, Ed Derrick of Amarillo.

Raymond Derrick will officiate services.

Pallbearers are Christopher Conner, Cody and John R. Woodcock IV, Callen Shane and Kevin Mitchell and Justin Vineyard Billy Derrick Jr.

Honorary pallbearers are Ed Derrick and Badger Burden.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society for the early detection of esophageal cancer.

Arrangements are by Steed-Todd Funeral Home.