William Evert Landrie

He was born and raised on the Mescalero Apache reservation until joining the U.S Navy when he was 17 years old. He loved the reservation and often stated that these were the happiest times of his life. He stated that he, “Was free to roam the mountains, chase wild horses, and hunt wild turkeys.” After he was discharged from the Navy, he began working on the Flying H Ranch in the foothills of the Guadalupe Mountains in New Mexico. He married his wife of 58 years during this time and raised his 3 daughters on the ranch. Later in his life he and his family moved to Artesia, NM and he worked for the United States Department of Game and Fish until retirement.

Billy was always easy going and friendly. Anyone that ever knew him liked him. He was always ready to have a good time and wanted everyone to be happy. He told wonderful stories and had a twinkle in his blue eyes. Even though he had health problems in the latter part of life, he never complained and had a great outlook on life. He was just a kind person and thought the best of everyone. He thought his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were the best of everyone at all their endeavors. As his grandson stated,” With Granddad gone we have lost our greatest fan”. He will be remembered for his easygoing natural manner, his laughing eyes, his loyalty to family, and his caring gentle soul.

Miss me but let me go.

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room.

Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little–but not too long

And not with your head bowed low.

Remember the love that we once shared,

Miss me–but let me go.

For this is a journey that we all must take

And each must go alone.

It's all a part of the Master's plan,

A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick of heart

Go to the friends we know

And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds.

Miss Me–But Let me Go!