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Billy Jack Lawson

| July 21, 2020 12:01 AM

Billy Jack Lawson passed away on July 7, 2020.

Billy was known for his infectious smile and laugh, incredible stories and unbeatable hugs. Loving husband, father, grandpa and friend is a light statement for the heavy hold he had on the hearts of everyone who knew him and especially those he loved. He was the center of our family, the smile and shoulder we could always count on. He could not have been a more incredible husband or father. He will forever be remembered for his inspiring work ethic and especially for his ability to build up and support the people around him.

Billy was born in Bakersfield, California, in 1953 where he learned to work hard and love deeply from his grandma Mama Mae, his mom Dottie Hinds and his stepfather Frank Hinds. He spoke of the lessons they taught him and how much they meant to him often. His love for his family cannot be overstated.

Frank Hinds introduced Billy to the oil fields when he was 16 years old. From that young age he continued to work in the oil industry for the rest of his life. Through his job he was able to travel the world, collecting incredible adventures and stories that he cherished and recounted to his family and friends often. He worked his way from the bottom to the highly esteemed position of senior drilling supervisor for Exxon Mobil. His coworkers and many mentees referred to him as an incredible teacher and a legend in his field.

To know Billy was to love him. As a friend, he was the first to lend a helping hand or share advice, laughs and good times. As a grandfather and uncle he was the first to cheer you on or lift you up in any way he could. As a father he was nurturing, strong, a teacher, an amazing listener, a constant north that never steered you wrong. He was the first to hug you and wish you “Good mornin’. What’d you want for breakfast?” every day. His three children Sherry Lawson, Caitlynn Dano and Caleb Lawson regard him as their hero, their role model and the most loving man they will ever know. As a husband, he was endlessly supportive and loving, and the perfect match for his wife Vickie. Billy and Vickie met 33 years ago and were married for 28 wonderful years. Together they raised three children and created a beautifully full life filled with love. Their love for each other will last forever.

Billy lit up every room and life he entered. The world is dimmer without him in it. We’ll all have to do our best to shine a bit brighter and be a bit more like Billy to fill the hole he left. His memory will live on forever in our hearts. We love you forever and always.

Please express your thoughts and memories for the family at www.kayserschapel.com. Arrangements are under the care Kayser’s Chapel of Memories.