Joey Alton Fitzgerald, age 64, was called home to be with the Lord on May 15, 2026, in Tatum, New Mexico.

Joey was born on September 25, 1961, to Jackie "Jan" Cox and Alton Fitzgerald in Lovington, New Mexico. He grew up in Tatum, New Mexico, and Welch, Texas, and graduated from Welch High School in 1979. From a young age, Joey had a passion for farming, trucks, rodeos, and country dancing. He was especially known for his talent on the dance floor, with two-stepping, the waltz, and the jitterbug being his specialties. Joey later settled in Lovington, where he started his family. He worked for the New Mexico Gas Company for 10 years before beginning a new adventure outside of New Mexico with Oakwood Homes and Clayton Homes, where he worked until retirement. Even after retiring, Joey could not sit still for long and went back to work for a short time as a heavy equipment operator. In his spare time, Joey enjoyed visiting with family and friends, collecting John Deere memorabilia, and hunting. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge for many years.

He was preceded in death by his son: Ty Fitzgerald; his parents: Jan Estes and Alton Fitzgerald; his dad: Leonard Fowler; his maternal grandparents: Oscar and Jeanie Cox; and his paternal grandparents: Mac and Ada Fitzgerald.

Joey is survived by his daughter: Jessica (Chuck) Johnson; granddaughters: Presleigh Peterson and Averleigh Johnson; his mom: Telita Fitzgerald; brother: Bobby (Pam) Fitzgerald, all of Lovington, New Mexico; sisters: Raelene (Kelly) Cogburn of Granite Shoals, Texas, Nannette (Pilar) Garcia of Tatum, New Mexico, Lisa (Buster) Brown of Grover, Texas, and Carlene and Mandy Fitzgerald, both of Mesa, Arizona; along with a host a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Joey will be remembered for the love he had for his kids, his quick wit and smart mouth, and the unforgettable way he could light up a dance floor. Cremation has taken place, and a private memorial service will be held and in accordance with his wishes his ashes will be spread in Texas, a place that held special meaning to him. Memorial contributions may be made to Masonic Lodge #46 in Lovington, New Mexico.

Condolences may be sent to www.kirbysmithrogers.com.