Billy Joe Martin

Billy Joe Martin “Prairie Dog”, 79, of Millersview, Texas passed away at his residence, Wednesday, June 24, 2015 after enduring a long illness.

He was born in White Flat, TX, on April 28, 1936, to Ray and Josie Martin. Billy Joe will be forever remembered by those who knew him as a tough, stubborn guy who had a heart of gold. He was a genuine cowboy who loved horses, rodeos, the outdoors, steak and potatoes, country music, and always dreamt of living in the Wild Wild West. At an early age, Billy Joe was employed with the Matador Ranch, Pitchfork Ranch, 6666 Ranch, and then moved on to be a ranch foreman for Joe Clark, owner of Tubbs Estate in Ector County, TX. After many years of being involved in the ranching industry, he moved to Iraan, TX to take on the oilfield. In 2005, he retired and moved to Lake Ivey.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Katherine Martin and Doris Osborn.

He leaves behind his wife of 42 years, Carolyn. He is survived by his five sons from their loving, blended family; Joe Keith Martin and wife Sonia, Ricky Martin and wife Beth, both of Odessa, TX; Ricky Clark and wife Mary, Sheldon Collins and wife Bettina, and Doug Collins, all of Iraan, TX. He is also survived by three brothers, Charlie Martin and wife Patsy, Rex Martin and wife Gloria, Jackie Martin and wife Sharon; one sister, Raynita Newman, as well as several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Billy Joe will be held at Lange Funeral Home in Ballinger, TX on Monday, June 29 at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch, PO Box 1890, Amarillo, Texas 79104-0001 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 1893, Memphis, Tennessee 38101-9950.

His infectious laugh and optimistic personality will be sorely missed by all that knew him.