Norman Lee Gilbreath

Norman Lee Gilbreath
Died peacefully at the age of 75, at San Juan Regional on February 19th, 2014 after a long struggle with several illnesses. He was born at home in Mclean, Texas on November 23, 1938 to Ruby Lee and J.C. Gilbreath.
Norman married his High School Sweetheart Loretta Elaine Mc Ilroy in 1957. They
moved to New Mexico in 1958 and he went to work for El Paso Natural Gas Company.
He worked a second job washing EPNG trucks under the direction of Don and Fern Taylor at
the time and develop a keen sense of get the job done right or do it again. Norman obtained
his real estate license and worked for Ramsey Realty. He owned a window washing business and vending machines , and worked on rigs to obtain pipe for his future wells.
After working for EPNG for almost 17 years, he continued in the profession he loved, the natural gas industry. With Loretta by his side he was owner/operator of his own natural gas wells for over 30 Years. He loved those gas wells and often referred to them as kids always needing a new pair of shoes, stating " each well has its own personality". He was a good family man and provider and loved people in general he never knew a stranger.
He enjoyed learning and teaching others about our God, Jehovah, and working hard in the ministry.
Norman loved the outdoors, including skiing, hunting, fishing, snagging and staying on the houseboat always inviting anyone who wanted to go. He loved cruises and traveling to other places of interest, including Hawaii, China, and the Caribbean. He was an accomplished gardener, beekeeper, and turquoise jewelry maker.
He was preceded in death by a son, Calvin Wayne, his parents, and older brothers Sidney and Lindsey Gilbreath.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Loretta Elaine, his companion Scooter, two daughters, Kathy (Steve) Belcher and Leslie (Jerry) Doers; twin sister Norma Lee Bolch (Travis) of Pampa, Texas; sister-in-laws Jean (Enid,OK) and Londa (Kerrville,TX) ; granddaughters January Nuanez, Daisha (David)Vaughn (Carlsbad, NM) and Cherish Skeen (UDEL), Geoff Thompson, Tiffany (Mark) Ferguson (Pittsburgh, PA) great-grandchildren, Luis, Scott, Vivian, Lillian (on her way),Ethan, Kyla and Kara. Numerous nieces and nephews including Farmington native Mike (Mary) Gilbreath. Also, extended family Kenneth(Natalie) Meathenia.
Special love and thanks goes out to Carla, Brandy and Tina who helped our family so much. We would like to thank the staff at SJRMC along with Amy and Trisha. Good Samaritan and the wonderful staff at Cedar Ridge for being so caring even though during his short stay.
Services will be held at Cope Memorial Chapel 404 Arrington St Farmington, NM 87401 on Saturday, March 1st, 2014 at 11:00 am with Earl Jewell officiating. A private family burial is planned for after the services.
Please come and celebrate Norman's life at a gathering of family and friends (all are welcome) at 3pm at 82 CR 3100. Norman would have enjoyed the fellowship of friends and family!