William Ray Estridge

William Ray Estridge, age 68, of Shelby, went to be with the Lord on Monday, April 24, 2017 at Crestwood Care Center in Shelby, OH after an extended illness. Known to some by the childhood name of "Billy Ray", but most recently preferring Bill or William. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend to many.

He was born May 21, 1948 in Lackey, Kentucky to the late William Albert Estridge and Evelyn (Baldridge) Estridge. He graduated high school in 1966 from Willard High School, and then attended Ashland University. He is survived by his two children, Jon (Krista) Estridge of Haymarket, Virginia and Evelyn (Chad) Franklin of Shelby; and his seven grandchildren, Ashley, Allison, Dylan, Brendon, Austin, Carson, and Delaney. William had two younger sisters that meant the world to him, Pamela (Richard) Swert and Vonda (Dennis) Wilt, as well as five nieces and nephews.

Prior to retirement, William was most recently a Gold buyer in Sanford, NC, which was truly befitting, as he was known to have a heart as pure as gold. He was passionate about sports, baseball especially, and was crushed by his Indians losing the World Series by one game last season. Some of his fondest memories include coaching his son Jon's baseball team and the numerous post game trips when he treated the team to Dor Lo Pizza in Ashland.

A food, political and Civil War aficionado, William liked to talk politics as much as he enjoyed fine dining (as well as the occasional guilty pleasure of twinkies and an ice cold mountain dew). A life long learner he enjoyed reading and history, as well as watching movies with his grandson.

William was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn (Baldridge) Estridge and William Albert Estridge.

A private memorial service will be held at Core Community Church in Shelby with his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of North Central Ohio. The Wappner Cremation Center is honored to assist the Estridge family.