Billy Joe Piper died July 12, 2023, at his home with his wife of 62 years, Lois Piper, by his side.
Billy was born in Lampasas on March 24, 1939 to Joe and Oveta Piper. He was one of six children and is survived by Lois and three siblings, Molly Hilliard of Fort Worth, Jane Finch of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Burke Piper of Eagle Nest, New Mexico; his sister-in-law, Helen Davis of Las Cruces, N.M.; and brother-in-law, Bob Ritchie of Melbourne, Australia. He is also survived by his daughter, Leigh Piper; sonin- law, Timothy Martin, and their children, Justin and Jordan Martin, along with five great-grandchildren, and daughter, Lori Piper.
Billy graduated from high school in Cimarron, N.M., and enrolled in New Mexico State University, earning a degree in biology with honors. He was in ROTC and was commissioned as an officer in the Army after graduation.
He married Lois in 1961. Billy served a distinguished 23 years in the Army, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel. He was awarded several medals and honors, including the Bronze Star, while stationed in Vietnam.
Upon retirement from the Army, he began an almost 40-year second career as a defense contractor, with a 15-year job as a range control officer on Fort Hood. He retired from that field in 2019 to devote his time to his lifetime passion, the family farm.
Billy was a man who believed in God, country and family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, life, family and friendships forged through decades.
Memorial donations may be made to Veterans Affairs.
Memorial services will be held at Grace Fellowship Church on Aug. 5 at 10 a.m., with a private interment to follow. Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel has charge of arrangements.
