Joe Neal Haggerton 1938-2026

Joe Neal Haggerton entered this world on Oct. 31, 1938, and departed for heaven on Jan. 5 at age 87. He was one of ten children born to Albert Wideman and Mary Inez Clayton Haggerton of Lovington, N.M.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a son, Jody Haggerton in 2017; a grandson, Jason Riley; brothers Donny and Tommy; and sisters Ruby, Sherry, Linda and Patsy. 

Surviving brothers are Dave (Ava) of Ovalo; Ronald “Butch” (Carla) of Tatum, N.M.; and sister Sammy Houston (Sonny) of Lovington, N.M. Also surviving are his wife Darlene of Mineola; children Sherry Riley (Wayne) of Tenaha; Kelly Joe (Melodia) near Lubbock; Nancy Moll (Lance) of Eads, Tenn.; and April Harpold (Lynn) of Oak Point.

He is also survived by 19 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joe was truly “a good man to know.” He had a vast knowledge of horses, boats, small equipment, whose loose livestock belonged to whom, and all things rodeo. He was a good neighbor, a good friend to many, and loved to help his church and community. He loved horses, and would tell anyone who would listen about his rodeo days, bull riding, bronc riding, and being a racehorse jockey. 

The love of his life was his wife of 59 years, Ruby Darlene. They moved from Lubbock to the Hoard community of Mineola in 1975.  He would go around singing country songs that were about “Ruby.” Joe will be truly missed by his family and friends. His passing leaves a sadness in our hearts when we dwell on it; but we can just imagine him in heaven, free of pain and disabilities, possibly leading others on the best trail ride, and, of course, solving ALL the crossword puzzles!