Billy Ray Wingard, Jr.

Billy Ray Wingard, Jr. (1956-2022) Billy Ray Wingard, Jr. went home to be with the Lord on August 30, 2022. Billy was born in Oceanside, California to his parents, Bill and Arlie Wingard. He is survived by his loving wife, Grace; his daughters, Jennifer Taveras (Willy) and Laura Bain (Logan); his honorary daughter, Amanda Diaz; his grandchildren, Marina, Will, Tyson, Ryker, Taylor and Evelyn; his sisters, Jan Raynor (Anthony), Pam Albert, Jeanette Towne, and Patti Spencer (Jimë); many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends; and his dog, Ginger. Billy grew up in New Bern, North Carolina, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Art History at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. He spent most of his career at North Carolina Wildlife and PCS Phosphate. He was a talented artist, who loved to paint, draw, and illustrate. He published several editorial cartoons in the New Bern Sun Journal. He enjoyed life and loved, among other things, fast cars, boating, hunting, fishing, camping, coffee with friends and family, and his impressive hot sauce collection. More than anything, Billy loved and prioritized his faith, family and friends. He was a man of quiet wisdom, strength, loyalty and selflessness. His grandchildren will remember him for his wonderful hugs, big smile, s’mores, motorcycle rides, fishing trips, painting and drawing lessons, singing, and unwavering love for them. While his family mourns the unexpected loss of their beloved Hon/Daddy/Grandaddy/Bro/Billy/Uncle Billy, they are thankful for him, his wonderful life, and for the certainty that they will be with him again one day. They also extend their sincere thanks to the many extended family and friends for their many acts of love and kindness shown to them during this time. I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. Psalms 121:1-2 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Psalms 23:6

Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, September 2, 2022, at Calvary Baptist Church in New Bern with Pastor Dwight Williams and Rev. Stanley Wingard, officiating. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the church.