Raymond Birmingham, Sr.

Raymond J Birmingham, Sr, a longtime resident of Hobbs, New Mexico, died at the age of 86 on Friday, December 17, 2021 surrounded with love from his family.

Raymond was an active member in the community. He coached Little League baseball for many years, even directed the building of the Heizer Park Baseball Field. He served many nonprofit organizations such as Knights of Columbus and Kiwanis. He also served as President of his local Kiwanis Club.

Raymond worked in the engineering department at the Hobbs, New Mexico electric company. He served in various capacities, including District Manager. While the name and ownership changed many times over his 43 years of service, his passion and devotion never faltered. After retiring and traveling for many years, Raymond’s work ethic drew him back to working. In 2013 he decided to work part-time at Enterprise Rentals. His coworkers energized him and kept him young.

Raymond was born on July 24, 1935 in Hot Springs, Arkansas to John F. and Marwil Birmingham. On February 12, 1955, Raymond married his high school sweetheart, Sharon Melton. He served in the United States Army during his first years of marriage.

Raymond is survived by his beautiful wife of 67 years, Sharon Birmingham; four sons, Ray Jr. (wife Chris) of Albuquerque, NM, David (wife Pam) of College Station, TX,  Michael (wife Renay) of Melissa, TX, Scott (wife Paula) of Melissa, TX; three daughters, Elizabeth Kelley (husband Kindell) of Georgetown, TX, Carol Marquez (husband Ralph) of Hobbs, NM and Leah Redwine of Melissa, TX. He is also survived by his brother Charles, 14 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by one son, James, his parents, five brothers and four sisters.

Raymond was a devoted father, grandfather, great grandfather and great-great grandfather. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, golfing, watching sports and reading. He also loved sharing his many jokes with everyone. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him. He left an incredible mark on this world.