Willie R. Hendrix died Tuesday, May 7, 2013, at Mercy Regional Medical Center in Durango. He was 71. He was born to Londell and Thelma Hendrix June 14, 1941, in Lexington, S.C., and he grew up in Lexington with his two sisters. He graduated from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical University. Mr. Hendrix moved to Durango in the 1970's and established several restaurants in the area. He also worked for the U.S. Forest Service. In 1991 he started his own construction business, and he became well known in the Durango area. His family remembers that he had a great sense of humor and a great laugh. They stated that he was known for his generosity and willingness to help others. Mr. Hendrix and Nida Vargas were together for 38 years. He enjoyed family and community and was always seen at the Ignacio Bear Dance event. He enjoyed watching all kinds of sporting events. He was always looking for good deals at the local flea markets. He was well known for his BBQ ribs, and his family says they will miss those special times. The family states that Mr. Hendrix will be truly missed by friends, family and the community. Mr. Hendrix is survived by his wife, Nida Vargas of Ignacio, Colo., daughter, Laurel Iron Cloud of Albuquerque, N.M., sons Greg Johnson and Edwin E. Tolosa of Jacksonville, N.C., sisters Corina Jackson and Tethel Strother of South Carolina, six grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 11, 2013, at St. Ignatius Church.