William "Bill" Allen Neish

In Loving Memory of William “Bill” Allen Neish October 20, 1946 – October 3, 2025

William “Bill” Allen Neish was born on October 20, 1946, in Yankee Canyon, New Mexico, many miles away from the hospital to William and Mary Neish. Raised in Raton, NM Bill’s life was rooted in the values of hard work, humility, and service. In 1968 he married Donna, beginning a remarkable 56-year journey filled with devotion, laughter, countless memories and endless adventures.

Bill pursued his passion for agriculture through education, earning a bachelor’s degree in agronomy and animal science, followed by a master’s in agricultural and extension education. These degrees laid the foundation for a life dedicated to farming, ranching, and uplifting his community. He took great pride in the 4-H youth, guiding many toward lives rooted in integrity, diligence, and service to others. Bill lived the 4-H pledge not just in words, but in action. I pledge my HEAD to clearer thinking *(4-H pledge)

For 24 years, Bill served as the Agriculture and 4-H Extension Agent for Torrance County, leaving an indelible mark on generations of New Mexico youth. He founded Electric camp a statewide youth camp, established the Torrance County 4-H Council, and led judging teams to competitions across the state and country. He instilled a strong work ethic in generations of New Mexico 4-Hers, who, under his guidance, painted and cleaned the fairgrounds year after year. If you’ve ever found your way around Estancia thanks to street signs, you can thank Bill and his 4-H crew—they secured the grant and did the work to make it happen. —proof of Bill’s belief in hands-on service. His contributions earned him a well-deserved place in the New Mexico 4-H Hall of Fame. My HANDS to larger service*

Bill’s commitment extended to the community. He was a member of the Small Farms Task Force, the visionary behind the Torrance County Pumpkin Chunkin’ event, and served as president of both Rotary and the Association of Counties. His efforts brought major agricultural conferences to the region, including those hosted by John Deere, helping stimulate local economic growth.

A man of deep faith, Bill was a longtime member of Estancia United Methodist Church and Johnson Mesa Church. He was known for his funny and heartfelt children’s sermons and for quietly volunteering. My HEALTH to better living*

Bill’s love for his family was boundless. He adored his horses, cattle, and—famously—his candy. The Neish household had the highest Halloween candy tax in the state. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, and the only ones allowed a time out in the middle of a snowball or water fight. He taught them to ride, to laugh, and to live with integrity. My HEART to greater loyalty*

He was a true cowboy, living by a simple but powerful code: say what you mean, do what you say, and take care of your people. He rode through life with quiet strength and steady hands. When life knocked you down, Bill was the one who reminded you to dust off, get back on the horse, and ride on.

His wit was sharp, his timing impeccable, and his bunny ears in every photo a reminder that joy lives in the smallest gestures. Candy may have been his love language, but nothing lit him up like the laughter of his grandkids and giving Donna a good scare. He was the best Papa—and we were so incredibly blessed that he was ours. For my club, my community, my country and my world*

Bill is survived by his wife, Donna; daughters Tery Tanner (Tony) and Lori SN Venable (Mitch); son Will Neish (Judi); grandchildren Marlie, Bella, Karly Neish, Sophia Venable, and Cassius Hines; sister Norman McGee; and many nieces and nephews who referred to him lovingly as Uncle Blue. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Jane Chumbley and Margaret Strange, and daughter Brandi Neish.

May we continue to honor his legacy by pledging our own heads, hearts, hands, and health to a better world.

Celebration of life ceremony will be held Saturday, October 11th at 10:00 Am. Estancia High School Gym, 709 Hopewell Ave, Estancia, NM. A reception will follow the service, where friends and family are invited to gather and share memories. Burial will take place at a later date on Johnson Mesa in Raton, New Mexico.

In lieu of flowers Bill can be honored by donations made to the Torrance County 4-H Council address Cooperative Extension Service attn: Torrance County 4-H Council P.O. Box 168 Estancia NM, 87016 or the Johnson Mesa Church, in care of Ruth Begio 660 Hwy 7 Raton, NM 87740.