Billy Joe Wilcox, affectionately known as Bill, passed away on May 1, 2026, in Centerville, Texas, leaving behind a legacy rich with warmth, kindness, and devotion. Born on November 14, 1930, in Austin, Texas, Bill's life spanned ninety-five years of friendship, dedication, and love for both his family and the world around him.

Bill's career was marked by steady commitment and skill as he worked as an estimator in the paving industry. He proudly served with APAC, a subsidiary of what is now Ashland Oil, ultimately retiring from this role. Although his work was demanding, Bill's true strength lay in his magnetic personality and his unwavering friendliness. He was a friend to everyone and known for opening his home and heart, frequently inviting friends over for visits filled with laughter and genuine camaraderie.

After moving to Centerville in 2009, having made their home previously in Euless, Bill and his beloved late wife, Elizabeth, embraced their community as devoted members of the First Baptist Church in Centerville. Their shared faith was a cornerstone of their lives together and touched all who knew them.

Outside of work and church, Bill's passions were deeply rooted in nature and the animals he so tenderly cared for. Whether wild or domesticated, he loved taking care of and feeding his many animals. In his younger years, Bill found joy and solace in hunting and fishing - pursuits that connected him intimately with the outdoors and nurtured a lifelong appreciation for the world's natural beauty. It is a poignant and comforting truth that Bill died doing what he loved.

Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Ella Wilcox; his father, Alfred "AJ" Wilcox; his wife Elizabeth Wilcox; and his brother, Alfred Wilcox. Though these dear family members have departed, Bill's spirit and memory live vibrantly on through his loving and extended family.

He is survived by his daughter, Wanda Whitley of Centerville; his son, Billy Mack Wilcox of Centerville; and his daughter, Jackie Olsen, along with her husband Gary, also of Centerville. His heart lives on in his grandchildren-Adam Whitley and his wife Brandy, Angie Warren and her husband Larry, Andy Whitley and his wife Melissa, David Horton and his fiancé Lisa, and Chris Olsen with his wife Meghan. The generations continue to flourish through his great-grandchildren: Hailey DiFabio and her husband Chris, Alex Whitley, Rachel Ream, Tori Joslin and her husband Chris, Emily Warren, Ayden Whitley, Brody Whitley, Chaney Horton, Kylie Horton, William Olsen, Elliott Olsen, and Russell Olsen. The family's lineage and love extend even further into the great-great-grandchildren: Warner DiFabio, Ava Ream, Braxton Ream, Elizabeth Ream, and Carter Horton.

The family will gather to honor and celebrate Bill's life at Walters Funeral Home, 610 S Commerce St, Centerville, Texas 75833. Visitation will be held on May 7, 2026, at 11 AM followed by the funeral service 12:00 Noon. Bill will be laid to rest next to his beloved, Elizabeth in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery. It will be a time to remember a cherished man whose life was a tapestry of love, generosity, and community spirit.

Bill's departure leaves a void in the hearts of many, yet his radiant personality and the countless memories he created will continue to shine brightly for all who were privileged to know him. He was a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and treated everyone as a friend. His legacy is an enduring gift-that of kindness, warmth, and the gentle care of all creation. Rest in peace, dear Bill. Your life was well-lived and your spirit forever cherished.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.