Billy Joe Christian

Billy Joe Christian was born August 1, 1939 as the eldest child of the Christian family. He passed away peacefully in Arkoma on June 10th, 2022. He is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Virginia, and siblings, Jackie, Ramona, and Jimmy. His brother, Pete, still resides in Fort Smith.

Bill was a graduate of Spiro High School. He proudly worked aboard the U.S.S. Ticonderoga and U.S.S. Bremerton during his service with the U.S. Navy. Upon his return to Oklahoma, he found work as a tanker driver for Littlefield Oil Company. Within a few years, he met his wife, Evalee, and they married on July 30, 1984. His large stature coupled with her tiny one made them quite the pair! She passed in 2015 with Bill by her side.

Bill fathered a handful of children in his lifetime. Joe and Jeffery Christian are his eldest sons. Evalee’s sons, Mike, J.P., and Daryl Roberts joined the brood. Their son, Cody Christian, was later born to finalize the crew. Bill couldn’t have been more proud to have a house full of rambunctious boys. Family was vital to Bill. He stayed close with his mother and all of his siblings throughout their lives, some even living within the same block as him. If a long weekend came along, Bill brought his sons on long haul oil deliveries with him. Bill also passionately coached his boys and their friends in baseball. He is grandfather to Kevin, Brook, Shaylynn, Kya, Ashley, Kara, Daryl (Jay), Drake, Ryder and a new grandson on the way.

Bill was an eternal fixture in Arkoma living in the center of town for the latter part of his life. He enjoyed visiting with neighbors on his front porch and watching westerns. Bill camped, traveled and played cards quite often in his retirement years, always with Evalee by his side. He liked to fish and used his construction trade skills to renovate his home to his specifications. His wide smile, love for riling people up and distinct belly laugh will be missed by all.

Viewing will be at Edwards Funeral Home on Saturday, June 18, 2022 from 10 am-12 pm. Cremation will follow at the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.