JOE BURTON MEACHAM – July 16, 2022
With heavy hearts, Pam Meacham and family announce the sudden passing of Joe Burton Meacham at his home in Albuquerque. He had recently celebrated his 74th birthday.
Joe lived in Turkey, Texas until graduating from Turkey High School. His earliest job was working in his dad’s grocery store. After graduation, he attended Texas Tech University where he studied Accounting.
After his time at Texas Tech, he followed his family to Los Alamos, New Mexico where he often worked multiple jobs at the same time — at his dad’s liquor store, bartending at the Los Alamos Inn, working for his best friend, Tom, at a men’s clothing store. He eventually became the manager of food and beverage at the Los Alamos Inn.
He continued working in the hospitality industry in positions that took him throughout the United States. He retired from Interstate Hotel & Resorts in 2018.
Joe was a proud Texas Tech University alum and super fan of the Red Raiders sports teams, singing the Raider’s fight song before each TV game and wearing his Raiders shirt in support. He also made room to cheer for the Kansas City Chiefs NFL team.
Always proud of his Turkey, Texas roots, Joe Burton made a point of attending annual Bob Wills Celebration days and many high school reunions through the years.
Joe loved music and started playing piano at a young age, and often played Pomp and Circumstance for the Turkey High graduation ceremonies. Although we enjoyed his piano playing everyone begged him not to sing!
He was a wonderful cook who cooked both professionally and for the pleasure of his friends and family. As the designated bartender for many gatherings, he enjoyed setting out bottles of spirits and freshly sliced limes and lemons ready to create custom drinks for all.
For the last 10 years, Joe shared a home with his sister, Pam, a home they originally shared with their mother, Mayfair. In recent years, Joe fought a battle with cancer and was several years cancer-free.
We remember Joe Burton for his sense of humor, his delight when arguing with telemarketers, his welcoming and generous spirit and love of family, friends and neighbors.
Joe is survived by his sister, Pam, their cat Meg and many cousins. A private celebration of Joe’s life will be held at a later time.
