William F Staats

William "Bill" Staats, 81, a resident of Lake Sumner passed away Sunday, April 13, 2025 at Hillside Heights Nursing Home in Amarillo, TX following a sudden illness. Bill was born March 21, 1944 in Great Falls, Montana to the home of Alvin Frederick Staats and Frances (Lehman) Staats.

Bill married Jeannettea Mullins in Pensacola, Florida in 1974. Together they traveled the world with their daughter, Loretta.

Bill served for 28 years in the United States Navy, and ended his military career as a Master Chief in Electronic Warfare. After his active duty time, Bill taught Electronic Warfare at the San Diego Community College to the newly enlisted sailors. After his retirement from the San Diego Community College, Bill and Jenny moved to Lake Sumner.

Bill loved to shoot pool, play cribbage, and visit Sandia resort and casino. He enjoyed a good whiskey, with a cigar, and to argue over politics. He was known to crack jokes, and to savor a big plate of etouffee from Pappadeux's.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents Alvin and Frances Staats, and his wife Jeannettea Staats. Those left behind to cherish Bill's memory are his daughter Loretta "Mike" Holley and husband Chuck Moore of Geneva, FL, his two grandchildren Sarah Nelson and husband Chris of Oviedo, FL, and Jacob Holley of Geneva, FL, and two great-grandchildren Dominic and Olivia Nelson. Also surviving is Bill's caregiver Judy Wells of Fort Sumner, NM. 

Cremation will take place, and a graveside service with military honors will be held at a later date. 

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