Billy Lee York

Billy Lee York, 74, of Lubbock, TX passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at home wrapped in the arms of our precious Jesus.

Billy was born on April 2, 1950, in Holdenville, Oklahoma to the late JD and Hazel Weaver.

Billy graduated from Roswell High School in 1968, where he was a standout football player. His athletic career continued at New Mexico Military Institute and later at San Angelo State University, where he still holds records for individual interceptions. After college, Billy began a career as a football coach, sharing his love of the game with the next generation of athletes.

In 1981, Billy transitioned to the oilfield services industry, moving to Brownfield, Texas, where he began a successful career. He later moved to Midland, Texas where he continued working in the oilfield until his retirement in 2016.

Though his professional life shifted, Billy’s love of sports never waned. He coached his children’s sports teams with enthusiasm and discovered a love of refereeing both football and basketball which he pursued for many years at the High School and Collegiate level. An avid golfer, Billy found joy on the golf course and “would rather be playing golf than watching it.”

Billy was blessed to have several lifelong friends from his childhood in Roswell. Don Shackelford was more of a brother than a best friend. Their love and friendship was greatly cherished. He was also completely devoted to his children and grandchildren. Never a person to tell them “No,” he was always available when needed with a smile on his face.

Billy carried his “good and getting better” attitude throughout his life and regardless of what was thrown at him he always met the challenge head on, never complaining, and using his humor and sarcasm to put others at ease.

Billy is survived by his beloved wife, JoAnne Moor-York; her daughter, Dr. Tarryn Moor; his former wife, Charlene York; their children, daughter, Jennifer York; son and daughter-in-law, Brooks and Mary York; grandchildren, Davis and Madeline; his mother-in-law, Mrs. Ernestine Gutierrez. Billy is also survived by his brother; Gary and Jan York; sisters, Glenda Kratzer and Teresa and Steve Woodard, and many nieces and nephews.

 He is predeceased by his parents, JD and Hazel Weaver; and his brother, James Weaver.

Billy was a courageous warrior and fought hard even to his last breath.

Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to High Plains Hospice, neighbors David and Donna Pennington, Don/Relda Shackleford, and sister-in-law Inez Gutierrez for helping with his care.

A visitation will be held Friday, September 27, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 10:00 AM, am at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home in Odessa, Texas with Pastor Mike Harkrider officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Parkinsons Foundation in Billys Memory.

Billy will be remembered for his deep love and devotion to his family, his passion for sports and countless lives he touched throughout his life.