Celebrating the life of Virgil Ernest Haley

Virgil Ernest Haley passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, at the age of 100. Virgil devoted his life to family, farming, and service. Born in Tonkawa, Oklahoma, Virgil moved with his family to Roswell, New Mexico, where they farmed and operated Haley Green Valley Market. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. In 1948, Virgil married Thelma Allene Durbin, and together they raised six sons. Farming became his lifelong work. Beginning with his first pecan trees in 1963, Virgil spent decades planting, tending, and expanding Western Schley orchards on both the east and west sides of Roswell.
His orchards eventually grew to more than 270 acres and later adding more than 900 acres to their operation. His son Bruce, continues the tradition today. Virgil was a proud member of the Western Pecan Growers Association for over thirty years and helped shape the region’s pecan industry through his steady leadership and commitment to quality.
A funeral service was scheduled for Sunday, August 9, at First Church of the Nazarene, Roswell NM. Memorial contributions may be made to First Church of the Nazarene–Missions or Bonita Park Camp and Conference Center. View more at www.andersonbethany.com/obituaries/virgil-haley/#!/Obituary
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — II Timothy 4:7