Billy Ray Hunter

Billy Ray Hunter, 75, a lifelong resident of Chico, Texas passed away in a motor vehicle accident on Friday July 17, 2009 two miles south of Pawhuska, Oklahoma on Highway 99. Billy was born June 9, 1934 in Chico, Texas. He was the son of Thurman and Rosie (Rich) Estelle Hunter. As a young man Billy began attending school in Chico and at the completion of his education he joined the United States Army. He served his country proudly and upon his honorable discharge from the Army. Billy returned to Chico and accepted employment in the oil fields of Wise County in the early 1950ís. He later gained employment in the early 1960ís at Gifford Hill Rock Quarry. Billy continued working at Gifford Hill and retired in the early 1970ís as the production foreman. Billy soon purchased the Lake Worth Trade and Post a small tavern which he operated for several years. After he sold the business Billy returned to doing what he was taught as a young man raising and selling cattle which he continued to due for many years. Survivors include his daughter Donna Gaye Carter of Osage, Oklahoma, son Neal Ray Hunter of Chico, Texas; one sister Gaylene Hilburn; five grandchildren and one great grandchild as well as a host of other relatives and friends that mourn his passing. Billy was preceded in death by his parents. Memorial services will be held on Friday, July 31, 2009 at 2:00 pm in the Chico Cemetery with Joey Smith officiating. Interment of the cremated remains will also be in the Chico Cemetery. Cremation arrangements are under the Chapman-Black Funeral Home, Inc. of Cleveland, Oklahoma local arrangements are under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport