Bill Gill

Bill Gill passed away on Monday, April 26, 2021 at home surrounded by his wife and children.  He was an Alto resident since 1993.  Bill was born in Bradshaw, TX on July 11, 1929 to Billie and Ella (Strickland) Gill.  He spent his early years in west Texas and attended both Texas A & M and Texas Tech University.  He served in the Air Force and was a Korean War Veteran.

Bill married his high school sweetheart, Neta Underwood on July 16, 1950.  They enjoyed 70 years of marriage.

He accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior while in college and devoted his life to serving Jesus in every aspect of his life.  He was a dedicated and faithful member of the Baptist churches where he and his family worshiped and served as a Deacon throughout his life as well as served on numerous church committees.  He loved music and enjoyed singing in church choirs.

Bill and Neta spent many hours volunteering with Samaritans Purse and Operation Christmas Child every year.  He also enjoyed volunteering as an usher at the Spencer Theatre.

He worked in the oil and gas industry throughout Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico.  He was greatly admired for his vast experience and knowledge within the petroleum industry.

His hobbies included fishing, golf, travel, and a special love of flying.  He was a licensed pilot of multiple aircrafts.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Neta and their 3 children:  David Gill and wife Sue, Nancy Fezler and husband, Steven, and Susan Hibbs and husband Johnny.   He is also survived by 9 grandchildren who knew him as Papa Bill:  Jennifer Hales and husband Steve, Melissa Gill Edmiston, Taylor Kvasager and husband Ty, Cammie Floyd and husband Matt, Cassie Ballantine and husband Chris,  Laurelyn Morrison and husband Michael, Leah Charleson and husband Jon, Lindsay Schroer and husband Ray, Austin Hibbs and wife Shea.

Bill was also blessed with 14 great-grandchildren and well as many nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Billie and Ella Gill, siblings Mildred Puckett, Mary Sargeant, Nita Inglish and Melvin Gill.

Bill will be laid to rest on Friday, April 30, 2021 at Fort Stanton State Veteran Cemetery at 10:30 a.m.  A Celebration of Life worship service will be held at First Baptist Church Ruidoso at 1:00 p.m. with a reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations made in memory of Bill Gill to Samaritan’s Purse.