Donald "Don" Ray New, age 79, passed away September 9th, 2017 at his home in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Don was born on November 24th, 1937 in Holliday, Texas, to Earnest and Edith New. He met his wife, Deanna in Abilene, Texas while she was pursuing her graduate degree at Hardin-Simmons University, and he working as a Land Man for Sun Exploration Company. Together, they shared many joyful years together as husband and wife. Deanna preceded him in death, June 2013. Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who was beloved by all whom had the chance to know him. Born and raised in North Texas, he was never without work, always one to seek bigger and better opportunities through his life. A product of the great depression, never graduating high-school and no chance of a university education, he joined the National Guard in 1954, and one year later left his home town of Jacksboro, Texas to join the Navy in 1955. While in the Navy he was stationed in numerous bases, including Chicago and Hawaii, where he trained and worked as an Aviation Mechanic. During his service to our great country, he earned his GED. Following an honorable discharge, he worked in aviation (a licensed pilot), law enforcement, oil/gas and insurance industries before retiring in 1993. Until his death he remained a Master Mason, Ft. Richardson No. 320.He was preceded in death by both parents, his oldest sister Quita, and his wife Deanna. He is survived by his loving family: Little sister, Dru Stewart (Husband Bruce), daughter Kalyn New and Stacey Marble, two sons Roland New and Jason New (wife Tina). Other survivors include his six grandchildren, Raylee, John "Dusty", Jarrett, Taylor, Cooper and Kaitlin New, plus one great-grandson, Zaidyn New. His presence in the lives of the many family and friends who loved and admired him will be missed.A graveside funeral service will be conducted on Friday, September 22nd at 10 a.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens Cemetery 5140 West Picacho where he will be laid to reside beside his beloved wife. Dr. Robert Donohue, will officiate.Pallbearers are Jason New, Dorian Antes, Daniel Antes, James Moore, Robert Moore and Todd Kaufman. Honorary pallbearers are Lonnie Moore and Cooper New.Services have been entrusted to the care of La Paz-Grahams Funeral Home, 555 West Amador, Las Cruces, NM 88005.