Jimmy Ray Wharton

Jimmy Ray Wharton, known to most as Pete, passed away peacefully at his home in Farmington, NM. on Wednesday, November 23, 2022, at the age of 73. He is survived by his wife Linda, his son Jimmy and wife Penny, his daughters Patty and husband Jerry Rush, Lauri and husband Bill Griner, granddaughters Rachel and Stephanie, grandsons Daeton, Jacob, Steven and Jared as well as great grandchildren. Pete has two living brothers, Willy and wife Georgie, Robbie and wife Barry, his sisters Betty Ann and Annelle. His brother-in-law Chris, sisters-in-law, Carol and Gail. Many nieces and nephews; Jonelle, Shawna, Megan, Nick, and lifelong friends that will truly miss his presence.

Pete was born in Tipton, Oklahoma on July 28, 1949. Pete grew up with a family who worked in gold and uranium mines, moving from Oklahoma, Colorado, and landing in Grants, NM where his parents mined and owned a pawn shop. After high school he too worked in the mines before joining the army in 1968. Pete then went to work for APS in Farmington utilizing his skills in electronics.

Farmington was the place he called home for many years settling down with his wife Linda of 45 years. Together they built a life that was founded on hard work and family. Pete loved going to the lake on the houseboat where many family and friends spent time listening to Pete’s stories and making great memories that will last forever. Pete loved target shooting, building bullets and hunting.

Memorial Services will be held at Farmington Funeral Home on December 9th, 2022, at 12:00 p.m. A graveside ceremony will follow at Memory Gardens in Farmington, NM. The family requests in lieu of flowers please donate to the NRA or the USO.