William Allen "Bill" Grisham passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026, in Artesia, New Mexico, at the age of 79.

Bill was born on October 13, 1946, in Clovis, New Mexico, to Allen and Adelle Grisham. He grew up in Lovington, where he graduated from Lovington High School. A gifted athlete, Bill earned varsity letters in football, basketball, and baseball, leaving a lasting impression both on and off the field. Following high school, he attended Eastern New Mexico University before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force.

After his military service, Bill built a long and successful career in the oil industry, working for Halliburton and later Navajo Refinery. He was known for his strong work ethic, practical knowledge, and willingness to lend a helping hand. His kindness and easygoing nature earned him the affectionate nickname "Sweet William" among his coworkers, a testament to the respect and genuine fondness they had for him.

Outside of work, Bill had a lifelong passion for automobiles. Whether he was restoring a classic car, tinkering under the hood, or spending a day at the drag races, he was happiest surrounded by engines and horsepower. Friends and family knew that if they had a question about an engine, a classic car, or just about any make or model ever built, Bill was the person to ask.

As much as he loved cars, Bill's greatest gift was making people laugh. He was a master story and joke teller, with a quick wit and an infectious sense of humor that could brighten any room. He had a remarkable ability to make people smile, and those who knew him will forever remember the laughter he brought into their lives.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Adelle Grisham; his sister, Jean Dean; and his son, Wynn Haynie.

He is lovingly remembered by his sisters, Allene Gilliam and her husband, Ron, and JoDell Ricker and her husband, Paul; his daughters, Amy Baker and her husband, Brian, and Kylee Shreve and her husband, Mikey; his beloved grandchildren, Braxton, Lauren, Laikyn, Kyler, Jayden, Ashton, and Aniston; his nephews and niece, Jay Gilliam, DeeAnn Fisher, and Dean Ricker, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Amy, Kylee, Braxton and Kendal Hendrix for the love, compassion, and devoted care they provided during Bill's final days. Their kindness and unwavering support brought him comfort and peace and will always be remembered with deep appreciation.

Bill will be remembered for his service to his country, his love of family, his passion for cars, and, most of all, the joy and laughter he shared with everyone fortunate enough to know him. His humor, generous spirit, and warm heart leave behind a legacy that will continue to live on in the memories of those he loved.