Paige Baize

Paige Baize passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy rooted in deep faith, hard work, and devotion to family and the ranching life he loved.

Born on June 3, 1938, to Novel and Vida (Amerson) Baize, Paige graduated from Hamlin High School in 1956. He was popular in school and went on to build a life defined by dedication and grit. He began his career working at Western Electric helping install telephone lines before returning to the ranch lands of West Texas, where he found his true calling as a cowboy.

On September 28, 1956, Paige married Barbara Sue Finch. Together, they built a life filled with resilience and purpose.

Over the years, Paige worked alongside respected ranchers and operations throughout the region. He was employed by Harry Holt in the Potosi and Buffalo Gap areas, Davis & Puckett in Winters, and day worked for the Clyde Sears Ranch. Following the passing of Clyde Sears, Paige took on the role of full-time ranch manager at the Clyde Sears Ranch. He also continued to lend a helping hand to other respected ranches, including the Shannon, J & J, Spires, Guitar, and 7S/Stuart, just to name a few. Paige also contributed to the establishment of the Western Heritage Classic in Abilene and continued to offer his time behind the scenes for 26 years.

He received numerous awards, including the Texas Cowboy Reunion Working Ranch Cowboy Award and the Texas Ranch Roundup Trailblazer Award. However, the kind words of his friends meant more to him than any award. A faithful member of the Clinton Street Church of Christ, Paige lived out his values through service, integrity, and a quiet strength that those around him deeply admired. He served as a hospice volunteer, officiated countless marriages and funerals, and mentored many cowboys throughout his career.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son-in-law, Victor Merfeld, and many good cowboy friends.

Paige is survived by his children: Dianne Merfeld of San Angelo; Donnie Baize (Shelly) of Albany; Debbie Joeris (Eric) of Clyde. He was a proud grandfather to Amanda Feil (David) of Coppell; William Merfeld (Marina) of San Angelo; Brandi Baize of Lemoore, CA; Mandi Graham of Albany; McKenna Joeris of Clyde and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Arlon Baize of Sagerton and Wayne Baize (Ellen) of Ft Davis. In addition, he leaves behind many other friends and family who will miss him dearly.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the team at Hendrick Hospice for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hendrick Hospice, 1651 Pine St., Abilene, Texas 79601 or the West Texas Rehabilitation Center, 4601 Hartford St., Abilene, Texas 79605.