Uncle Bill taught me the art of shooting fireworks, how to meet girls, how to drive a stick shift auto('58 Chevy), do what it takes to provide for a family, proper respect for my elders, to communicate properly in a face to face conversation(make and keep eye contact thus showing respect and interest, how to roller skate, and how to bounce back from adversity. Uncle Bill looked up to and respected his brothers- Elbert my Dad and Uncle Randall.So, the patience of Uncle Bill was legendary. Case in point, the '58 Chevy driving lessons. In the alley besides Grandpa Harry's and Grandma Elsies house was the first lesson. Pulling forward 50 feet was executed o.k. "Now shift into reverse, and backup" was the request from Uncle Bill. I did and everything would have great except for the power pole 1/2 down the alley! You guessed it, I side swiped the pole for about 6 feet. Here is the legendary patience Uncle Bill showed. "Well Mike, put it 1st gear and pull forward-I did. "OK Mike let's try it again". Without any hint of anger in his voice. I learned so-o much that day other that driving a stick shift. Oh, by the way I was 12 years old. What a MAN and MEANTOR you were to Me Uncle Bill! My family extents, sincere and loving condolences to Jeanine, Eric, and My Aunt Ruth. Love, Mike, Colleen Watkins

My thoughts and prayers to Eric and the family . I had known Billy Ray from many years ago mostly from my time selling building materials … I didn’t know much if anything and Billy Ray taught me a a lot about the construction side of the business to help me understand what a lumber salesman would need to know … I took a couple of my vacation days from the lumber yard to work on his job sites to one make money and two learn some practice experience. He took me up flying a couple times and we zipped around the island great times indeed … Billy Ray even took his own time with me ine summer and helped layout Suzanne’s and my foundation for our house where is still live today… he was a great mentor / teacher. It mostly a good friend

Thanks Billy Ray for the good memories of aroebatic flying over the ocean. I am honored I got to meet you. You will be missed by many.

We had the pleasure of being neighbors with Billy Ray for a few years. He'd always take a little stroll on his electric scooter while getting the mail and let my kids ride on his spare scooter. It was a sweet memory. Sorry to hear of his passing.

Billy Ray was a fine man who positively influenced our lived, both through his fine son Eric and in hosting our family in his home multiple times. Ever gracious, kind and witty, we have nothing but fond memories of our times in his home. He is missed.

This describes him exactly! He was a friend to many and will be greatly missed.

Billy Ray was a great friend and flying buddy. My sympathies to the family

Billy Ray was a wonderful person. My sympathies to family.

A true Friend and business partner. Rest easy Billy Ray.

I enjoyed working with Billy on many projects for Florida Public Utilities over many years. Admired and respected by us.

Did his concrete work for years and was a pleasure to know him