Billy Ray Wise

Billy Ray Wise, 86, of Clifton passed away on Sunday, January 22, 2017, at his residence. Memorial services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, February 9, 2017, at Clifton Funeral Home with Chaplain Dave Anfenson officiating.

Billy was born March 5, 1930, in Clifton, to Felix and Bessie (Ledlow) Wise. Following his graduation from Mosheim High School, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he served for 30 years. Stationed mostly in San Diego, his career took him all over the world. On February 28, 1978, he retired as Master Chief Petty Officer. Following his time in the Navy, he worked for the civil service administration in aviation electronics. In 1999, he returned to Clifton.

His interests included all sports. In his forties, he began water skiing and he took up downhill skiing in his sixties. He enjoyed socializing and relaxing on hunting trips and playing golf with his friends. Bill also found time to coach little league baseball. He was always quick to help out friends and family. He was of the Baptist faith.

Preceding him in death were his parents; son, Bill Wesley Wise; daughter, Betty Jean Vaughan; six siblings, Nell Golden, Betty Brock, Johnnie Tenerille, Peggy Van Etten, Carrol Wise, and his twin sister, Faye Janashak who passed away January 20, 2015.

Survivors include his daughter, Barbara Tebbel of New Mexico; brother, James Wise of Clifton; sisters, Wanda Miller of Clifton and Diane Brul and husband, Carl, of Georgia; four grandchildren, John-David Vaughan, Jeremiah Vaughan, Christina Woywood, and Jennifer Vaughan; eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews including, Jeff and Denise Wise and their children, Brayden, Brill, and Brystel of Clifton; son-in-law David Vaughan, wife Susan and their children, James and Johnny of Colorado.

Memorials may be made to Hospice Sunset, P. O. Box 71, Clifton, TX 76634 or charity of one's choice.