Billy Ray Cole was born in Stigler, Oklahoma on February 21, 1935, to parents Herbert and Iva (Edwards) Cole. His family moved to Wasco when he was 10 years old and he graduated from Wasco High in 1953. Bill married the love of his life, Betty Jo (Few) Cole, at the Griffith Avenue Baptist Church on April 21, 1957. He then went on to serve as a Marksman in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany, where the couple welcomed their first son, Tony. When the family returned to Wasco Bill managed the Mobil Service Station, and the family grew with the birth of another son, Timothy. Bill went out on his own and purchased Wasco Auto Service and towing; after 30 years he retired and had more time to enjoy himself. Bill was always a great mechanic and a hard worker, he always kept building things; he enjoyed making horse buggies and hand trailers that he would give to the children, mostly out of spare parts. "Just Plain Bill" as some called him, was a down to earth kind of man; he loved to grow things and tend to his garden, and he cared for his horses that eventually became his pets. Bill had a great sense of humor, but also was a bit ornery. His hobbies also included going hunting, fishing and backpacking. One year he even got a bear. He will be dearly missed. Bill is survived by his wife of more than 61 years, Betty; his sons, Tony Cole and his wife Ann, and Tim Cole; grandchildren, Katy and husband Scott Ward, Stefi and husband Kyle Ogan, and Ben Cole; great grandchildren, Taylor, Colby, Millie and Josie; along with his sisters, Karen, Sharon, Sandra and Tanya. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Iva; and his brothers, Jim Cole and Lowell Cole. Bill and his dog Bo died on November 21, 2018 just outside of Wasco. His graveside service will be held at Shafter Memorial Park on Monday, December 3, beginning at 1:00 p.m., Scott Hight will officiate.