Ralph Gilman

Ralph Gilman, 80, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025. He was born on December 17, 1944, and lived a life marked by hard work, devotion, and a steadfast love for family and community.

He married the love of his life, Lynelle Gresham Gilman, on December 28, 1962. Together, they shared almost 63 wonderful years of marriage, raising two adventurous and successful daughters and creating a legacy of family, faith, and friendship.

After marrying, the couple worked together on Hooker Ranch in Willcox, Arizona, before settling in Arch, New Mexico, where he farmed and ranched. Eventually, they made their home in Portales, where his deep roots and dedication to the land became well known.

A businessman and true jack of all trades, he worked as a rancher, farmer, rock crusher, and junk yard owner. Whatever the task, he approached it with determination, ingenuity, and pride. Beyond his work, he was a champion for the downtrodden—always ready to stand up for those who needed a voice. He shared strong bonds of friendship with kindred spirits like Dick Powell, Peter Dahlstrom, Kelly Sanders, Mark Hacker and Homer Aguirre who shared his commitment to helping others.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Lynelle Gilman, daughter Christy (Wilbur) Jones, sisters Fern Moreland and Dixie (Rick) Usrey and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Stephanie Gilman Dodd.

Memorial services are scheduled for 2:30 pm, Friday, December 12, 2025 at Combest Family Memorial Chapel.

His life was one of grit, love, and generosity. His legacy lives on in the family he nurtured, the work he accomplished, and the countless lives he touched along the way.