Billie Sue (Lawson) Ray, 81, a cherished member of the Waldron community, was born on May 29, 1943 to Samuel and Emma (Nichols) Lawson in Bluffton, Arkansas and peacefully passed away on August 14, 2024, in Fort Smith, Arkansas surrounded by her loving family. Billie Sue was a beloved wife to her husband W.D. Rabbit for 38 wonderful years, and their love was a true inspiration to all who knew them.
Billie Sue was a dedicated employee, having worked at the Waldron Furniture Factory and then her and Rabbit’s business, C&R Design, for over 20 years, leaving a lasting impact on those she worked with. Billie Sue was a family-oriented individual who adored spending time with her children, grandchildren and creating beautiful memories that will be cherished forever. She was known for her incredible muscadine jelly, a delicious treat that brought joy to many. Her love for bluegrass music, rock n’ roll, and especially Elvis Presley was infectious. She often found joy in going to the Turkey Track to listen to her favorite bluegrass music.
In her younger days, Billie Sue was a talented basketball player and even had the honor of being the Yell County Fair Queen, embodying grace and beauty. She had a passion for watching the Arkansas Razorbacks play basketball and cheered them on with enthusiasm. Traveling was a significant part of her life, as she enjoyed exploring new places with Rabbit, her in-laws, and their spouses, especially their trips to Branson to enjoy the music.
Billie Sue leaves behind to cherish her memory the love of her life, W.D. Rabbit Ray; daughter: Lisa Ridenhour of Waldron, step daughter Simone Ray of Waldron, and daughter in-law Kim Hale of Hale Town, Arkansas. Grandma will forever remain in the hearts of her grandchildren: Jodi Perry of Poteau, Oklahoma; Chelsea Lord and husband Jacob of Wasilla, Alaska; Kendra Kisling and children of Waldron ; Dustin and Hope Kisling and children of Rogers ; Kayla and Ronnie Cox and children of Waldron ; and grandson-in-law Austin Thomas of Ola, Arkansas. Great-Grandchildren: Bryson and Codi Jones, Jake Perry, Raylyn Thomas, Miles Lord, Baby Lord, and one great-great grandchild: Walker Jones; nieces Debbie Taff and Judy Self, Nephew David Lawson of Waldron.
Billie Sue will be missed by all that knew her and the many lives she touched including an extended family of friends and loved ones dear to her heart.Billie Sue was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Emma Lawson; son, Billy Joe Hale; stepdaughter, Shannen Ray; granddaughter, Lyonette Thomas; brother, Hoyt Lawson and twin sister, Betty Lou Spears.
Billie Sue’s life celebration will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 17, 2024 at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas with Butch Morgan officiating. Interment will follow in the Duncan Cemetery in Waldron, Arkansas. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.
Billie Sue’s pallbearers will be Bryson Jones, Jake Perry, Austin Thomas, Jacob Lord, Dustin Kisling, Travis Taff and Ronnie Cox. Honorary pallbearers will be Johnny Ray, David Lawson, Jamie Hale, Alvin Carnahan and Tim Spears.
Billie Sue’s visitation will be Friday, August 16, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home.
