Mike Patton

Joe "Mike" Patton, age 76 of House, NM passed away at his home on Thursday, December 25, 2025 with his family by his side. He was born June 18, 1949 in Tucumcari, NM to the home Holland and Anita Jo Patton. He grew up in Tucumcari, and attended school there. He graduated with the THS class of 1967.

After high school, Mike attended college at the New Mexico Military Institute for 2 years, followed by 2 years at West Point. After a medical discharge from West Point, Mike received his Bachelors Degree from Baylor University. He continued his education at Wayland Baptist, receiving a Masters Degree in Education. 

He married Debbie Smith in 1990 in Tucumcari, NM. Together they made their home in House, NM. Mike was a high school math teacher at House High School for many years. Mike also taught high school math at NMMI High School for 7 years until his retirement in 2014. 

Mike was a member of the House Baptist Church, and the Tucumcari Masonic Lodge. 

Mike enjoyed making pens, camping, and riding motorcycles. He enjoyed the time he got to spend with his family. 

Mike is preceded in death by his parents, and one brother Donald Patton. 

He is survived by his wife of 35 years Debbie Patton of the family home in House, two sons: Jason Patton and his wife Sherri of Flatonia, TX, Matthew Patton of Houston, TX, three stepsons: Mike Benton and his wife Crystal of Carlsbad, NM, Chad Benton and his wife Melissa of Tucumcari, NM, and Todd Benton and his wife De'Adra of Amarillo, TX, 16 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and one great grandchild on the way. 

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am Friday, January 9, 2026 at the House Baptist Church with Rev. Joe Sparks officiating. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 830 N. Fifth Street, Fort Sumner, New Mexico. (575) 355-2311.