Dates
Joe Weldon Fields, better known as “Bang Bang”, of San Angelo, passed away July 15, 2026 at the age of 85. He was born May 12, 1941 in Bronte Texas to parents Joe Green and Margaret (Driskill) Fields. He was raised in Sonora Texas.
He served in the US Navy from 1958 to 1962. Then began his employment with the San Angelo Police Department on February 16, 1966. He continued to serve until his retirement on September 30,1993. After rookie school, he was assigned to the Patrol Division, 1st Shift. In 1967, records show he received a pay increase of a whopping $15 a month to perform the duties as a dispatcher. He married the love of his life Louise Asbury on May 31, 1968 in San Angelo, TX.
During his employment he attended several Law Enforcement schools. He received his Associate’s in Applied Arts degree from Howard County Junior College in Big Spring Texas. He went on to receive his Bachelor of Science from Hardin Simmons University.
Joe attained the rank of Sergeant in January of 1974. He served the majority of his time in the Criminal Investigation Division.
Joe was a care giver. He especially loved to serve those who served in World War II. Joe also had a servant’s heart. He always enjoyed acknowledging those in law enforcement and the military, as well as anyone that served others. If you ever received a birthday card from the President over the years, it was probably Joe that made that happen. He was an active member of many police and veteran organizations. He was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan and supporter. He enjoyed working outside to maintain a beautiful yard. He also enjoyed any time spent with family and friends, usually involving BBQ.
Law Enforcement officers and their families became his second family. After his retirement, his one main goal was to keep those currently employed in contact with those who retired. Thus began the “Retiree Emails”. Early on everyone began to realize that if they knew someone was ill or a death in the family, they knew to notify Joe, so he could include that in his emails. He also used these emails to notify other city employees of any insurance changes. We want to thank Robert Lloyd for offering to step in and take over these duties Joe held so dearly.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years Louise Fields. One daughter Sherri Camille Bolding and husband Stan and his three sons Skipper, Wes, and Jake. One grandson Ryan Ardrey and his wife Stacey. Two great grandchildren Evadeen and Eli. One sister LaVern Johnson. Brother in-law Sonny Asbury and Dian. Cousin Phyllis and R.V. Briemer as well as several nieces and nephews. Dear friends Sandy and Wayne Dacy. A wonderful workout group from Shannon Health Club and his second family the San Angelo Police Dept.
The family would like to extend our gratitude to all that reached out with kind words, prayers, and calls during his stays in the hospital. Rest well faithful servant.
Viewing will be at Harper Funeral home in San Angelo from 12-7 PM Saturday July 18 and 12-5PM Sunday July 19. Services will be held at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo Monday July 20 at 10:00AM with Pastor Charles Smith officiating. Burial to follow at Johnson’s Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. In leu of flowers, donations can be made to Meals For the Elderly or the charity of your choice.
Family and friends may share their condolences and sign the online register book at www.harper-funeralhome.com.