Billy Ray Bruton

Billy Ray Bruton, longtime resident of Longview, passed away January 14, 2012 at Good Shepherd Hospital at the age of 85. Billy was born on November 1, 1926 in Ft. Worth, Texas. He attended Milby High School in Houston, Texas, but at the age of 16 he enlisted in the US Navy by deceiving the recruitment officer. After the end of WWII he attended East Texas Baptist College in Marshall and the University of Houston and was ordained from Manchester Baptist Church. Billy worked for Axelson, Inc. for 37 years, starting as a test engineer and ending his career as Vice President of the Engineering Division. He traveled worldwide on behalf of the company. Billy was the inventor and co-inventor of numerous devices and parts for which Axelson holds the patents. However, Billy's true calling in life was to be a minister of the Lord. He was unmistakably the spiritual leader of his family; he served as a Sunday School teacher and Deacon for many years and went on numerous mission trips. He worked tirelessly within Longview's Christian community volunteering for house building and repair work. He also officiated at funerals for several family members. Billy's faith in Christ was exuberant, and he never missed an opportunity to tell others what Jesus had done for him. Billy was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church for 37 years. Billy met the love of his life, Bobbie Louise Howell, when he was 16 and she was 13, when he shot down her kite with his BB-gun. They attended the same high school and married when he was 19 and she was 17, and they enjoyed a 65 year marriage. Billy is survived by his wife, Bobbie; his son, Rex; and his daughter, Kathy; 8 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. We rejoice that he is now home in heaven with his Savior. The family will receive friends this evening, January 16, 2012 from 6-8 PM at Rader Funeral Home of Longview. A memorial service will be held at 10 AM on Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at Calvary Baptist Church with Brother Richard Jones officiating. The family requests that memorial donations be made to the building fund of Calvary Baptist Church, 4715 Tenneryville Road Longview, TX 75604. A memorial guestbook may be signed online at www.raderfh.com.

Billy Ray Bruton

November 1, 1926 - January 14, 2012