Billy Ray Wilder

July 29, 1929 - April 22, 2020

Appalachia, VA - Billy Ray Wilder, 90, of Appalachia, VA, passed away Wednesday, April 22, 2020, at Johnson City Medical Center. He was born in Inman, VA, lived in Valparaiso, IN and had lived in Appalachia, VA since 1991. Mr. Wilder retired as a Switchman from E J & E Railroad after 40 years of service. He was strong like a bull. He was an inspiration to all and loved by all. He was a fun loving man who worked hard and played just as hard. He was an avid gardener with his dog Roy by his side. He loved experimenting with recipes and made a mean pumpkin pie. He wrote a little song “I remember when I was young” and his son in law Don Anderson recorded it for him. He often sang songs out of tune, but it was a sweet sound to our ears. His family was his life and he enjoyed spending time with them and telling stories. He loved selflessly. Mr. Wilder was preceded in death by his daughter Kara Sullivan-Wilder; parents Richard & Bessie Ellen Shook Wilder; brothers Jack and Jim Wilder; sisters, Helen Fauver, Nila Henderson, Dot Henderson and Bette Przybysz. Surviving are his loving wife, Rita; daughters Coleen Wilder and Lynda (Don) Anderson; adopted sons, Wayne and Steve Wilder; siblings, Bob Wilder and Patricia Wilder; grandchildren Cliff (Kathy) Malings and Julie (Chris) Crider; many great grand children nieces and nephews. A Private Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 or online at www.donate3.cancer.org/ Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.oakhillfh.com The care of Billy Ray Wilder and his family has been entrusted to the staff of Oak Hill Funeral and Cremation Services.