George Miles Baucom, 88, of Odessa, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2024, at The Plaza at Richardson in Richardson, Texas.
He was born on November 26, 1936, in Santa Anna, Texas, to Buna and Albert Mack Baucom. George spent his formative years in Santa Anna, where he developed a strong work ethic, taking on various jobs such as window washing, hauling oats and hay, picking cotton to earn spending money. By the age of 16, he was working at local grocery stores, including BT Vinson and Piggly Wiggly. He also joined the Texas National Guard while in High School and served his nation and state for several years.
George was a proud 1955 graduate of Santa Anna High School. However his heart had been captured by the love of his life, Lucy Casey and they were married on April 6, 1956. George embarked on a lifelong career in the oil field. He began as a roughneck for Birdwell Drilling Company in Coleman, quickly advancing to the position of driller. His work took him across West Texas and beyond, spanning locations from Midland to Kermit and into Central and South Texas. In the early 1970s, George joined Lynes Testing Company which became Baker Hughes where he excelled as a tester and later as a manager, in Texas, Wyoming, and California contributing to the company's success. He retired from Baker Hughes in September 2005 and he and Lucy returned to their home in Odessa.
George had a zest for life, enjoying camping and traveling with his siblings. His adventures included memorable cruises to destinations such as Alaska, Maine, and various states across the U.S. He delighted in bringing joy to his children, nieces, and nephews, frequently taking them to Six Flags and other attractions, ensuring they enjoyed every moment until the parks closed. George was a loving father and an incredible uncle, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.
He cherished time spent at Patricia and Joe's Lake house in Malakoff with his family, creating unforgettable memories with his loved ones. He loved going to the dock, enjoying the view and listening to his music, one of which was his favorite song by Don Williams, "You Are My Best Friend".
George is survived by his children, Lezlie Berdan (Sid Yates), Steve Baucom (Vedette Vasquez), and Robert Baucom; his siblings, Theresa Baucom, Mary Baucom Dobbert, Barbara Baucom Osborne, and Brian Baucom; and his beloved six grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. George was preceded in death by his loving wife, Lucy Margaret Casey Baucom, in 2024; his parents, Albert Mack Baucom (1957) and Buna Myers Baucom (1993); and siblings Mack Junior (1998), Maxine Baucom Morgan (2006), and Patsey Baucom Jones (2015).
A celebration of George's life will be held at the Novice Church of Christ in Novice, Texas, on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 11 AM, with visitation beginning at 10 AM. Burial will follow at Rough Creek Cemetery in Novice, Texas. Doug Doyle, former minister of University Church of Christ in Odessa, will officiate the services.
George will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His spirit and love will continue to live on in the hearts of family and friends.