MONTY JOHN BILBERRY Oct. 10, 1950 – June 25, 2024

Monty John Bilberry, a beloved resident of White Rock, NM, passed away on June 25, 2024, at the age of 73. Born on October 10, 1950, in Portales, NM, Monty was known for his kind and loving nature, deeply cherished by all who knew him.

Monty graduated from Santa Fe High School and earned his Bachelor’s degree from Eastern New Mexico University. His career was diverse, including time as a rancher with a small cow and calf operation, and roles in real estate, construction, the oil and gas industry, and the TV and film industry. These varied paths showcased his wide range of interests and talents.

Monty was a proud member of both the American Iris Society and the Santa Fe Iris Society. He enjoyed growing irises and traveling across the USA and Canada to see them. Monty deeply loved the outdoors, finding joy and peace in activities such as hunting, fishing, and camping. He also enjoyed rodeos, horse racing, card games, dominoes, movies, music, and books, which allowed him to connect with family and friends, creating lasting memories.

Monty is survived by his devoted wife, Debra Bilberry; his sons, John Bilberry of Los Alamos, NM, and Sean (Roberta) Bilberry of Albuquerque, NM; his sister, Deborah (Mitch) Mayhon of Santa Fe, NM; and his brothers, Ted (Suzie) Bilberry of Olathe, CO, Don (Tammy) Bilberry of Bosque Farms, NM and Tommy Johnson of Texas. Brother-in-laws Tony Padilla of Santa Fe, NM, Jim Curry of Roswell, NM, and his sister-in-law Dianne (George) Davis of Clovis, NM, as well as his many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Christine Bilberry, and his sisters, Carroll Curry and Donna Padilla.

Services will be held at the White Rock Baptist Church, 80 State Road 4, White Rock, NM, on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 2 PM. Monty’s life and legacy will be honored by family, friends, and all who knew him.