Billy Ray Christensen

(July 8, 1947 - March 24, 2021)

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Billy Ray Christensen was called home to be with the Lord on March 24, 2021, at his home in Billings, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 8, 1947, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, to Carlos and Donna (Owen) Christensen. Siblings include Sid, Doug and Gene Christensen. Billy’s father worked in the oil fields during his early life, which resulted in moving the family to many locations in North Dakota, Montana, and finally settling in Powell.

Billy graduated from Powell High School in 1965 and served his country by joining the U.S. Army in 1966. He was honorably discharged in 1969 with the rank of staff sergeant. 

During this time, he proudly and dutifully served as an Honor Guard by escorting Vietnam casualties to their final resting places. He was extremely proud of his country and the comradeship of fellow veterans. 

Billy spent most of his working career with oil field and trucking companies doing what he loved and knew best, some of which include National Supply, Hi-Ball Trucking and, most recently, Dick Jones Trucking.

Billy lived life to the fullest. He was an avid car enthusiast (the faster the car, the better). He loved working on his vehicles, and restored and upgraded many to mint condition. Billy loved to read about history, especially the Civil War and Custer’s Last Stand. He was loyal and generous, sharing whatever he had with others. He loved to tell a good story and definitely knew how to make it more interesting.

Billy married Sharon Fetzer on Aug. 21, 1973. 

He is survived by wife, Sharon; son Chad (Peggy) Christensen of Washington, Utah; and daughter Shana (Chris) Akins of Worden. Billy recently learned of another son, Daryl (Esther) Wilcox of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, who was welcomed with open arms into the family. Billy has nine grandchildren: Dane, Piper and Peyton Christensen; Maddison, Aeryn and Brielle Akins, Adam, Lucas and Carlos Wilcox. Billy is also survived by his brother Sid (Marge) Christensen of Farmington, New Mexico; sister-in-law Julaine Christensen of Douglas, Wyoming; and many nieces and nephews.

Billy was preceded in death by his father and mother, Carlos and Donna Christensen; an infant sister, Darlene; brothers Gene and Doug Christensen; and niece Janet Hildreth.

During the last years of his life, Billy grew close to the Lord. He was baptized and became a member of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Billings.

Billy grew up in Powell and felt a strong connection to the community with many, many friends. Services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 20, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Powell, with a military burial immediately following at Crown Hill Cemetery. A reception will follow at Immanuel Lutheran Church. 

Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice.  Condolences may be made at www.michelottisawyers.com.

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