Services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 5, at the First Baptist Church of Carlsbad for Dr. Billie Joe Harris, DDS, of Carlsbad.
Harris, 97, entered into eternal rest and joy Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, at his home, surrounded by his wife and daughters.
Pastor Randy Land will officiate the services, with Masonic Funeral Rites by Eddy Lodge #21 AF & AM. Interment will follow the services in the old section of the Carlsbad Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Carlsbad Veterans Honor Guard.
Visitation will be held from 1-8 p.m. today at West Funeral Home in Carlsbad.
Bill was born June 10, 1921, in Clovis to Ralph J. and Margaret (Givens) Harris. The Harris family moved to Carlsbad in June 1928, and Bill grew up there, attending Carlsbad schools and graduating in 1940.
Upon graduation from Carlsbad Senior High School, he attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, for undergraduate studies in pre-dental. During his final year of college, he volunteered for the U.S. Army and served on a recoilless rifle crew, where he was an expert marksman. During his service, Bill was granted permission to attend Creighton Dental School in Omaha, Neb.
Upon graduation from Creighton Dental, he returned to his hometown of Carlsbad in 1948 to begin serving the community in full-time dental practice. His brother, Dr. Dale Harris, joined him in 1948 after graduating from Baylor Dental and serving in the Navy. Together, they opened the Harris Dental Practice in Carlsbad. Over the years, Harris Dental became the largest privately-held group practice in New Mexico, with five dentists and dental hygienist Peggy Harris Hyden, youngest daughter of Dr. Bill.
In November 1948, Bill married Helen Johnson. Helen’s parents, Walter E. and Lora Mae Johnson, were also longtime residents of Carlsbad. Dr. Bill and Helen were married and enjoyed life together for 70 years.
The brothers practiced together for several years until Dr. Bill was called back, once again, to serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. The family moved to Williamsburg, Va., at which time he returned as a captain in the Dental Core, stationed at Fort Eustis. Upon his honorable discharge, he and his family returned to Carlsbad in 1954 to continue his practice with his brother, Dr. Dale.
Dr. and Mrs. Harris had three children. William Dale was born in 1950, Annette Ilene in 1952, and Peggy Louise followed in 1957. The family thrived in Carlsbad, as Dr. Bill gave generously of his time and professionalism in the practice of dentistry. The family was involved in many of the civic opportunities of that day through the dedication of Dr. and Mrs. Harris.
The Harris family attended and took an active part in the First Baptist Church, where Dr. Bill first joined in 1932, currently the eldest member attending to date. He was a member of the Gideons International, actively providing Bibles in memoriam to families. He was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge in Carlsbad as a 32nd-degree Mason. He was a member of the Shriners, having the rewarding experience of serving in the clown unit and participating in great programs benefiting children. He was vice president of the Chamber of Commerce and was awarded honorary notification by the organization for his commitment to Carlsbad.
His dedication to Carlsbad was outstanding. In the years his family was growing up and taking family vacations, the car was loaded down with pamphlets and other materials promoting the city, which Dr. Bill delivered across the country at every stop the family made! Along with his civic service, he gave of his time through volunteering at health and other civic programs, and promoting good dental health care in the community. Free dental clinics were part of his monthly schedule. To that end, Dr. Bill was still making house calls for dental care long after that was no longer practiced by many professionals. Harris Dental participated with the Carlsbad Municipal Schools, providing opportunities for employment and training in the profession of dentistry to high school students.
Dr. Bill was a longtime member of the Elks Lodge of Carlsbad. He was involved in countless charitable causes, as his dedication has always been to help others. He was active in raising contributions and spreading awareness for the Red Cross. He also served as a chaplain at the Carlsbad Medical Center for several years and on into his retirement.
Upon his retirement, he was honored with an article in USA Today designating him the longest-practicing dentist in the state of New Mexico.
Dr. Bill loved to tell stories about the early years in Carlsbad. He shared a great deal about his business ventures with his father and brother, including building the first franchised Ramada Inn and the many commercial and residential properties throughout the city he had bought and sold over the years. He has always been dedicated to Carlsbad, with only two commitments that superseded his love for his bustling town. One was his love and dedication to Jesus Christ in his everyday walk of life, and the other to his devoted wife, Helen, and their beautiful family.
Dr. Harris retired in 2013 at the age of 92. He loved taking care of his patients and always gave of himself, his time, and his kindness. His family honors him continually as being the greatest man who ever has lived. He is the proud grandfather of six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Dr. Harris had the deep respect and love of his patients and people in the town of Carlsbad due to his selfless spirit and love for people.
Survivors include the love of his life, Helen J. Harris, of Carlsbad; daughters Annette Harris Levenson, and Peggy Harris Hyden and husband Michael Ross Hyden, both of Carlsbad; grandchildren Benjamin Levenson and wife Cara, Jacob Levenson and wife Honoree, Lauren Hyden Smith and husband Jared, Natalie Hyden Buchanan and husband Ryan, and Dr. Andrew Hyden and wife Jessica; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son, William Dale Harris; grandson James Rich Levenson; his parents; and brother Dr. R. Dale Harris.
The family of Dr. Harris extends its gratitude to the caretakers at the home and to Lakeview Christian Home Hospice for the love and service to our family. Also, many thanks to the friends and loved ones who shared love with Dr. Harris and family.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International of a charity of choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of West Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed online at westfuneralhomellc.com.
Contributor: Steve Burton (48198296)
Harris, 97, entered into eternal rest and joy Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, at his home, surrounded by his wife and daughters.
Pastor Randy Land will officiate the services, with Masonic Funeral Rites by Eddy Lodge #21 AF & AM. Interment will follow the services in the old section of the Carlsbad Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Carlsbad Veterans Honor Guard.
Visitation will be held from 1-8 p.m. today at West Funeral Home in Carlsbad.
Bill was born June 10, 1921, in Clovis to Ralph J. and Margaret (Givens) Harris. The Harris family moved to Carlsbad in June 1928, and Bill grew up there, attending Carlsbad schools and graduating in 1940.
Upon graduation from Carlsbad Senior High School, he attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, for undergraduate studies in pre-dental. During his final year of college, he volunteered for the U.S. Army and served on a recoilless rifle crew, where he was an expert marksman. During his service, Bill was granted permission to attend Creighton Dental School in Omaha, Neb.
Upon graduation from Creighton Dental, he returned to his hometown of Carlsbad in 1948 to begin serving the community in full-time dental practice. His brother, Dr. Dale Harris, joined him in 1948 after graduating from Baylor Dental and serving in the Navy. Together, they opened the Harris Dental Practice in Carlsbad. Over the years, Harris Dental became the largest privately-held group practice in New Mexico, with five dentists and dental hygienist Peggy Harris Hyden, youngest daughter of Dr. Bill.
In November 1948, Bill married Helen Johnson. Helen’s parents, Walter E. and Lora Mae Johnson, were also longtime residents of Carlsbad. Dr. Bill and Helen were married and enjoyed life together for 70 years.
The brothers practiced together for several years until Dr. Bill was called back, once again, to serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. The family moved to Williamsburg, Va., at which time he returned as a captain in the Dental Core, stationed at Fort Eustis. Upon his honorable discharge, he and his family returned to Carlsbad in 1954 to continue his practice with his brother, Dr. Dale.
Dr. and Mrs. Harris had three children. William Dale was born in 1950, Annette Ilene in 1952, and Peggy Louise followed in 1957. The family thrived in Carlsbad, as Dr. Bill gave generously of his time and professionalism in the practice of dentistry. The family was involved in many of the civic opportunities of that day through the dedication of Dr. and Mrs. Harris.
The Harris family attended and took an active part in the First Baptist Church, where Dr. Bill first joined in 1932, currently the eldest member attending to date. He was a member of the Gideons International, actively providing Bibles in memoriam to families. He was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge in Carlsbad as a 32nd-degree Mason. He was a member of the Shriners, having the rewarding experience of serving in the clown unit and participating in great programs benefiting children. He was vice president of the Chamber of Commerce and was awarded honorary notification by the organization for his commitment to Carlsbad.
His dedication to Carlsbad was outstanding. In the years his family was growing up and taking family vacations, the car was loaded down with pamphlets and other materials promoting the city, which Dr. Bill delivered across the country at every stop the family made! Along with his civic service, he gave of his time through volunteering at health and other civic programs, and promoting good dental health care in the community. Free dental clinics were part of his monthly schedule. To that end, Dr. Bill was still making house calls for dental care long after that was no longer practiced by many professionals. Harris Dental participated with the Carlsbad Municipal Schools, providing opportunities for employment and training in the profession of dentistry to high school students.
Dr. Bill was a longtime member of the Elks Lodge of Carlsbad. He was involved in countless charitable causes, as his dedication has always been to help others. He was active in raising contributions and spreading awareness for the Red Cross. He also served as a chaplain at the Carlsbad Medical Center for several years and on into his retirement.
Upon his retirement, he was honored with an article in USA Today designating him the longest-practicing dentist in the state of New Mexico.
Dr. Bill loved to tell stories about the early years in Carlsbad. He shared a great deal about his business ventures with his father and brother, including building the first franchised Ramada Inn and the many commercial and residential properties throughout the city he had bought and sold over the years. He has always been dedicated to Carlsbad, with only two commitments that superseded his love for his bustling town. One was his love and dedication to Jesus Christ in his everyday walk of life, and the other to his devoted wife, Helen, and their beautiful family.
Dr. Harris retired in 2013 at the age of 92. He loved taking care of his patients and always gave of himself, his time, and his kindness. His family honors him continually as being the greatest man who ever has lived. He is the proud grandfather of six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Dr. Harris had the deep respect and love of his patients and people in the town of Carlsbad due to his selfless spirit and love for people.
Survivors include the love of his life, Helen J. Harris, of Carlsbad; daughters Annette Harris Levenson, and Peggy Harris Hyden and husband Michael Ross Hyden, both of Carlsbad; grandchildren Benjamin Levenson and wife Cara, Jacob Levenson and wife Honoree, Lauren Hyden Smith and husband Jared, Natalie Hyden Buchanan and husband Ryan, and Dr. Andrew Hyden and wife Jessica; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son, William Dale Harris; grandson James Rich Levenson; his parents; and brother Dr. R. Dale Harris.
The family of Dr. Harris extends its gratitude to the caretakers at the home and to Lakeview Christian Home Hospice for the love and service to our family. Also, many thanks to the friends and loved ones who shared love with Dr. Harris and family.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International of a charity of choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of West Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed online at westfuneralhomellc.com.
Contributor: Steve Burton (48198296)
Services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 5, at the First Baptist Church of Carlsbad for Dr. Billie Joe Harris, DDS, of Carlsbad.
Harris, 97, entered into eternal rest and joy Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, at his home, surrounded by his wife and daughters.
Pastor Randy Land will officiate the services, with Masonic Funeral Rites by Eddy Lodge #21 AF & AM. Interment will follow the services in the old section of the Carlsbad Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Carlsbad Veterans Honor Guard.
Visitation will be held from 1-8 p.m. today at West Funeral Home in Carlsbad.
Bill was born June 10, 1921, in Clovis to Ralph J. and Margaret (Givens) Harris. The Harris family moved to Carlsbad in June 1928, and Bill grew up there, attending Carlsbad schools and graduating in 1940.
Upon graduation from Carlsbad Senior High School, he attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, for undergraduate studies in pre-dental. During his final year of college, he volunteered for the U.S. Army and served on a recoilless rifle crew, where he was an expert marksman. During his service, Bill was granted permission to attend Creighton Dental School in Omaha, Neb.
Upon graduation from Creighton Dental, he returned to his hometown of Carlsbad in 1948 to begin serving the community in full-time dental practice. His brother, Dr. Dale Harris, joined him in 1948 after graduating from Baylor Dental and serving in the Navy. Together, they opened the Harris Dental Practice in Carlsbad. Over the years, Harris Dental became the largest privately-held group practice in New Mexico, with five dentists and dental hygienist Peggy Harris Hyden, youngest daughter of Dr. Bill.
In November 1948, Bill married Helen Johnson. Helen’s parents, Walter E. and Lora Mae Johnson, were also longtime residents of Carlsbad. Dr. Bill and Helen were married and enjoyed life together for 70 years.
The brothers practiced together for several years until Dr. Bill was called back, once again, to serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. The family moved to Williamsburg, Va., at which time he returned as a captain in the Dental Core, stationed at Fort Eustis. Upon his honorable discharge, he and his family returned to Carlsbad in 1954 to continue his practice with his brother, Dr. Dale.
Dr. and Mrs. Harris had three children. William Dale was born in 1950, Annette Ilene in 1952, and Peggy Louise followed in 1957. The family thrived in Carlsbad, as Dr. Bill gave generously of his time and professionalism in the practice of dentistry. The family was involved in many of the civic opportunities of that day through the dedication of Dr. and Mrs. Harris.
The Harris family attended and took an active part in the First Baptist Church, where Dr. Bill first joined in 1932, currently the eldest member attending to date. He was a member of the Gideons International, actively providing Bibles in memoriam to families. He was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge in Carlsbad as a 32nd-degree Mason. He was a member of the Shriners, having the rewarding experience of serving in the clown unit and participating in great programs benefiting children. He was vice president of the Chamber of Commerce and was awarded honorary notification by the organization for his commitment to Carlsbad.
His dedication to Carlsbad was outstanding. In the years his family was growing up and taking family vacations, the car was loaded down with pamphlets and other materials promoting the city, which Dr. Bill delivered across the country at every stop the family made! Along with his civic service, he gave of his time through volunteering at health and other civic programs, and promoting good dental health care in the community. Free dental clinics were part of his monthly schedule. To that end, Dr. Bill was still making house calls for dental care long after that was no longer practiced by many professionals. Harris Dental participated with the Carlsbad Municipal Schools, providing opportunities for employment and training in the profession of dentistry to high school students.
Dr. Bill was a longtime member of the Elks Lodge of Carlsbad. He was involved in countless charitable causes, as his dedication has always been to help others. He was active in raising contributions and spreading awareness for the Red Cross. He also served as a chaplain at the Carlsbad Medical Center for several years and on into his retirement.
Upon his retirement, he was honored with an article in USA Today designating him the longest-practicing dentist in the state of New Mexico.
Dr. Bill loved to tell stories about the early years in Carlsbad. He shared a great deal about his business ventures with his father and brother, including building the first franchised Ramada Inn and the many commercial and residential properties throughout the city he had bought and sold over the years. He has always been dedicated to Carlsbad, with only two commitments that superseded his love for his bustling town. One was his love and dedication to Jesus Christ in his everyday walk of life, and the other to his devoted wife, Helen, and their beautiful family.
Dr. Harris retired in 2013 at the age of 92. He loved taking care of his patients and always gave of himself, his time, and his kindness. His family honors him continually as being the greatest man who ever has lived. He is the proud grandfather of six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Dr. Harris had the deep respect and love of his patients and people in the town of Carlsbad due to his selfless spirit and love for people.
Survivors include the love of his life, Helen J. Harris, of Carlsbad; daughters Annette Harris Levenson, and Peggy Harris Hyden and husband Michael Ross Hyden, both of Carlsbad; grandchildren Benjamin Levenson and wife Cara, Jacob Levenson and wife Honoree, Lauren Hyden Smith and husband Jared, Natalie Hyden Buchanan and husband Ryan, and Dr. Andrew Hyden and wife Jessica; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son, William Dale Harris; grandson James Rich Levenson; his parents; and brother Dr. R. Dale Harris.
The family of Dr. Harris extends its gratitude to the caretakers at the home and to Lakeview Christian Home Hospice for the love and service to our family. Also, many thanks to the friends and loved ones who shared love with Dr. Harris and family.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International of a charity of choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of West Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed online at westfuneralhomellc.com.
Contributor: Steve Burton (48198296)
Harris, 97, entered into eternal rest and joy Monday, Oct. 1, 2018, at his home, surrounded by his wife and daughters.
Pastor Randy Land will officiate the services, with Masonic Funeral Rites by Eddy Lodge #21 AF & AM. Interment will follow the services in the old section of the Carlsbad Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Carlsbad Veterans Honor Guard.
Visitation will be held from 1-8 p.m. today at West Funeral Home in Carlsbad.
Bill was born June 10, 1921, in Clovis to Ralph J. and Margaret (Givens) Harris. The Harris family moved to Carlsbad in June 1928, and Bill grew up there, attending Carlsbad schools and graduating in 1940.
Upon graduation from Carlsbad Senior High School, he attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, for undergraduate studies in pre-dental. During his final year of college, he volunteered for the U.S. Army and served on a recoilless rifle crew, where he was an expert marksman. During his service, Bill was granted permission to attend Creighton Dental School in Omaha, Neb.
Upon graduation from Creighton Dental, he returned to his hometown of Carlsbad in 1948 to begin serving the community in full-time dental practice. His brother, Dr. Dale Harris, joined him in 1948 after graduating from Baylor Dental and serving in the Navy. Together, they opened the Harris Dental Practice in Carlsbad. Over the years, Harris Dental became the largest privately-held group practice in New Mexico, with five dentists and dental hygienist Peggy Harris Hyden, youngest daughter of Dr. Bill.
In November 1948, Bill married Helen Johnson. Helen’s parents, Walter E. and Lora Mae Johnson, were also longtime residents of Carlsbad. Dr. Bill and Helen were married and enjoyed life together for 70 years.
The brothers practiced together for several years until Dr. Bill was called back, once again, to serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. The family moved to Williamsburg, Va., at which time he returned as a captain in the Dental Core, stationed at Fort Eustis. Upon his honorable discharge, he and his family returned to Carlsbad in 1954 to continue his practice with his brother, Dr. Dale.
Dr. and Mrs. Harris had three children. William Dale was born in 1950, Annette Ilene in 1952, and Peggy Louise followed in 1957. The family thrived in Carlsbad, as Dr. Bill gave generously of his time and professionalism in the practice of dentistry. The family was involved in many of the civic opportunities of that day through the dedication of Dr. and Mrs. Harris.
The Harris family attended and took an active part in the First Baptist Church, where Dr. Bill first joined in 1932, currently the eldest member attending to date. He was a member of the Gideons International, actively providing Bibles in memoriam to families. He was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge in Carlsbad as a 32nd-degree Mason. He was a member of the Shriners, having the rewarding experience of serving in the clown unit and participating in great programs benefiting children. He was vice president of the Chamber of Commerce and was awarded honorary notification by the organization for his commitment to Carlsbad.
His dedication to Carlsbad was outstanding. In the years his family was growing up and taking family vacations, the car was loaded down with pamphlets and other materials promoting the city, which Dr. Bill delivered across the country at every stop the family made! Along with his civic service, he gave of his time through volunteering at health and other civic programs, and promoting good dental health care in the community. Free dental clinics were part of his monthly schedule. To that end, Dr. Bill was still making house calls for dental care long after that was no longer practiced by many professionals. Harris Dental participated with the Carlsbad Municipal Schools, providing opportunities for employment and training in the profession of dentistry to high school students.
Dr. Bill was a longtime member of the Elks Lodge of Carlsbad. He was involved in countless charitable causes, as his dedication has always been to help others. He was active in raising contributions and spreading awareness for the Red Cross. He also served as a chaplain at the Carlsbad Medical Center for several years and on into his retirement.
Upon his retirement, he was honored with an article in USA Today designating him the longest-practicing dentist in the state of New Mexico.
Dr. Bill loved to tell stories about the early years in Carlsbad. He shared a great deal about his business ventures with his father and brother, including building the first franchised Ramada Inn and the many commercial and residential properties throughout the city he had bought and sold over the years. He has always been dedicated to Carlsbad, with only two commitments that superseded his love for his bustling town. One was his love and dedication to Jesus Christ in his everyday walk of life, and the other to his devoted wife, Helen, and their beautiful family.
Dr. Harris retired in 2013 at the age of 92. He loved taking care of his patients and always gave of himself, his time, and his kindness. His family honors him continually as being the greatest man who ever has lived. He is the proud grandfather of six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Dr. Harris had the deep respect and love of his patients and people in the town of Carlsbad due to his selfless spirit and love for people.
Survivors include the love of his life, Helen J. Harris, of Carlsbad; daughters Annette Harris Levenson, and Peggy Harris Hyden and husband Michael Ross Hyden, both of Carlsbad; grandchildren Benjamin Levenson and wife Cara, Jacob Levenson and wife Honoree, Lauren Hyden Smith and husband Jared, Natalie Hyden Buchanan and husband Ryan, and Dr. Andrew Hyden and wife Jessica; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son, William Dale Harris; grandson James Rich Levenson; his parents; and brother Dr. R. Dale Harris.
The family of Dr. Harris extends its gratitude to the caretakers at the home and to Lakeview Christian Home Hospice for the love and service to our family. Also, many thanks to the friends and loved ones who shared love with Dr. Harris and family.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International of a charity of choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of West Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed online at westfuneralhomellc.com.
Contributor: Steve Burton (48198296)
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