Billy Wayne Youngblood

March 8, 1928 – November 12, 2016

Billy Wayne Youngblood, 88, a Boron resident of 58 years passed away on November 12, 2016 in Barstow, CA of natural causes.

Billy was born March 8, 1928 in Nimmons, Arkansas to William and Verla Youngblood. There he went to school and worked as a young man until marrying Nora Lee Stamps on February 14, 1948 in Piggott, Arkansas. Billy was a natural athlete with an undying love for baseball. So much that he even had an opportunity to play in the big leagues but opted to head out west to California instead. Billy and Nora Lee relocated to Wilmington, CA in the early 50’s and started raising their family. Billy was fortunate enough to seek employment with U.S. Borax and worked until he took a transfer to Boron, CA in 1958. This is where they made their home and raised six children. Billy was extremely dedicated to his job and position as a union steward for Borax. He built hundreds of true friendships while on the job which was more like a brotherhood. These men were very serious about their jobs and stood strong to protect them! ILWU Local 30! Billy retired from US Borax in 1991 after serving more than 35 years, which was quite a milestone! In June 2009, he lost his lovely bride of 61 years and his heart was broken.

Billy never met a stranger and everyone absolutely loved him. He was a man amongst men and a friend to all! Always there to lend a hand and help anyone in need. He also was a sturdy foundation for his kids, supporting each one with love. His humor was one of his best traits – his laugh very contagious. He enjoyed hanging out with his buddies having a “cold one” and exchanging stories of comedy. He was a real treasure.

Billy was preceded in death by his wife, Nora Lee. He is survived by his sons Rick (Sharon) Youngblood of Rocksprings WY, Allen and Kenneth Youngblood of Boron, CA, daughters Phyllis Otten of Aberdeen, WA, Debbie (Denny) Berczyk of Great Falls, MT, Kim Youngblood of Boron, CA, 11 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, his sister, Jerry (Leon) Williams of Heavener, OK and many, many friends.

The Youngblood family would like to express our sincerest gratitude for the support, love and prayers at this difficult time.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life gathering in Boron at the VFW Post # 6313 on December 17, 2016 @ 6:00 pm.