Dwight Claybourne “Clay” Billings

1956-2009

Dwight Claybourne “Clay” Billings passed away Tuesday, June 30, in his childhood home in Tarpley with his family by his side.
He was born Oct. 29, 1956.

Clay left us for the big rodeo arena in the sky.

A true one-of-a-kind cowboy, his “Yes, ma’am,” tip of a hat and handshake was the real deal, and his smile could make everyone’s worries vanish. Because Clay never met a stranger and never stopped helping those less fortunate, he was blessed with many friends and considered them his family.

He became a Texas and National Champion Calf Roper and runner-up to many other awards. The belt buckles and saddles he won throughout his career in the arena stand as a testament to his dedication to rodeo. Additionally, Clay shared his talent with many of the ropers who travel the circuit today.

Clay, his brother, Howard, and Butter Crane were in partnership at the Hondo Livestock barn.

He was a loving husband, father, uncle, brother-in-law, nephew and friend.

Clay is survived by his beautiful wife, Linda, and daughter Clacy of Tarpley; brother Howard Billings and his wife, Mary Kay, also of Tarpley; sister-in-law Becky and her husband, Jack Preston, of San Antonio; sister-in-law Judy Ramsey and husband, Chris, of Utopia; brother-in-law Shreves Minton Jr. and his wife, Jeannie, of Utopia; nieces, Wende Bridger, Jodee Welch, Misty McBee, Krissy Rhodes and Julie Ann Chambers; and nephews, Tye Billings, Josh Ramsey, Lonnie Ritterbach and Chad Ritterbach, as well as numerous aunts and uncles.

His daughter, Ashley, and his mom and dad, Dag and Perk Billings, all of Tarpley, preceded him in death.

Although his body is gone, Clay will live on forever in our hearts and spirit.

In his own words, he “hosed off” and “brushed up” to be with the “Big Cat” in heaven. He knew his daughter, Ashley, was waiting for him there.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund – the “Clacy College Fund” – has been set up at the Bandera Bank, 207 Main Street. For more information, call 830-796-3711.

Condolences may be sent to the family by selecting the “Send Condolences” link at www.grimesfuneralchapels.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Grimes Funeral Chapels of Bandera.