Billy Ray Wilson

Billy Ray Wilson, 92, of Niceville, Florida, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 2, 2026.

Billy Ray was an extraordinary man whose life was marked by steadfast love, quiet strength, and a deep commitment to the people and places that mattered most to him. He was a devoted husband, loving father, brother, proud grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished uncle whose presence brought comfort, wisdom, and warmth to his family. He had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued, and his kindness, humor, and steady presence will be remembered by everyone who knew him.

Billy Ray was born in Fountain Run, Kentucky, and earned his degree from Western Kentucky State College. Throughout his life, he proudly served in the military, giving of himself in service to his country. He later worked for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), a role that reflected his respect for Florida’s natural beauty and his appreciation for the outdoors. Through his work and his example, he demonstrated a lasting sense of responsibility, dedication, and care for the community around him.

One of Billy Ray’s greatest passions was coaching football. For more than 30 years, he gave his time, energy, and guidance to generations of young athletes. His record—84 games coached with only two losses—speaks to his knowledge and commitment, but his influence reached far beyond the scoreboard. He taught perseverance, discipline, teamwork, and confidence, offering encouragement that his players carried with them long after they left the field. For Billy Ray, coaching was never simply about winning games; it was about helping young people grow, believe in themselves, and become the best they could be.

Billy Ray loved the outdoors, especially hunting (turkey season could never get here fast enough) and fishing was just in his blood, after all when he met the love of his life born and raised in Niceville Florida, he knew this was going to be his home forever.

Above all, Billy Ray treasured his family. He was a loving husband, & brother, a proud father, grandfather and great grandfather who cared deeply for his family.  He took great joy in watching each generation grow. He was especially proud of his family—and, as he would say with a smile, “there sure is a lot of all these Wilson boys”

Billy Ray’s strength, kindness, wisdom, and love will remain a lasting part of his family’s lives. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, lessons, and memories that will be cherished for generations to come.

Billy Ray was preceded in death by his parents Alton P Wilson and Esca Mae Cook Wilson, his daughter, Teresa Barbee, son, Mitch Wilson, brothers Frank Tuttle "Tut" Wilson, James LeRoy Wilson and sister Lois Holland. 

He is survived by the love of his life of 70 years, Janice Willingham Wilson; his son, Eric T. Wilson (and wife, Gail); his sister Glenda Stegall, his grandchildren, Savannah Switzer, Shayna Barbee, Tyler Wilson, Hunter Wilson, and Chandler Wilson; and his great-grandchildren, Dylan Switzer, Parker Wilson, Carter Wilson, Easton Wilson, and Fletcher Ray Wilson.

He leaves behind a lifetime of love, lessons, and stories that will forever be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to call him husband, Dad, Papa, uncle and friend.

Rest in peace, Billy Ray. You were truly one of a kind, and you will be loved and missed forever.

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