Gonzales, Billy Joe

Billy Joe Gonzales

Services: Have been held.

Mr. Billy Joe Gonzales, 64, of Portales, died Wednesday, July 21, 2004, at Covenant Medical Center in Lubbock.

He was born on Feb. 23, 1940, in Agudo, to Frank and Molly Valdez Gonzales.

He was a resident of Melrose where he owned and operated the Phillips 66 station for over 20 years. Family members said he loved to fish, hunt and trap. He was a multi-talented artist and a photographer. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Sonny Gonzales.

Survivors include a daughter, Shelly Bruce (and husband, Gary) of Melrose; two stepdaughters, Jan Garza of San Antonio and Deana Ashley of Melrose; two stepsons, Jerry Ashley of Levelland, Texas, and Lonnie Ashley of Melrose; two sisters, Katherine Lockett of Fort Sumner and June Beard of Elida; 16 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Otho Rogers will officiate the services.

Burial will be at Melrose Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Doyle and Daniel Rush, Eddie and Jimmy Gonzales, Charlie and Joshua Gibson and Lynn and Scott Beard.

Honorary pallbearers are Jerry Ashley, Lonnie Ashley and Stanley Campbell.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Diabetes Association.

Arrangements are by Steed-Todd Funeral Home of Clovis.