Billy Ray Gordon

Billy Ray Gordon, age 54, of Tyler, passed away in the early-morning hours of Tuesday, April 30, 2013 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Billy was born on March 7, 1959 in Greenville, Texas to James L. and Jimmye Jayne Vance Gordon. Billy attended Chapel Hill High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army. Following his service, Billy worked his life in several trades but always with his hands and always with the work ethic second to none. He spent the last six years working for Coburns Plumbing in Tyler before he got sick. Billy was a skilled mechanic and welder and in his free time he loved to hunt, fish, ride 4 wheelers, and barbeque. He was also a member of the Church of Christ. Billy married the love of his life, Mary Alice Cooper, on June 25, 1988 in Tyler and after 25 years of raising a family and living a lifetime of memories, she survives. He leaves behind the memories of his love for the outdoors and his sense of humor but those who knew Billy best will remember him for the love he had for his family and for children.

Billy is survived by his wife, Mary Gordon; sons, Vance Ray Gordon and Mitchell Ray Gordon; parents, James and Jimmye Gordon; sister, Lisa Gordon-Ritch; brother, Jimmy DeWayne Gordon; father and mother-in-law, Glenn Ray and Anna Lee Cooper; brothers-in-law, Donald Cooper, Ray Cooper, and Don Ritch; aunt, RoJean Vance Cull of Dallas; and by a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and very special friends.

Billy was preceded in death by his grandparents, Avah and Jim Vance of Quinlan and Lilly and Eddie Gordon of Emory, and by one uncle, Raymond Vance.

A memorial service for Billy Ray Gordon will be held at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, May 4, 2013 at Lloyd James Funeral Home with Duane Petty officiating. Honorary pallbearers will be DeWayne Gordon, Ray Cooper, River Gordon, Donald Cooper, Don Ritch, Michael Moser, and Barry McKelvey.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hospice of East Texas, the ALS Association, or the MDA.