Dateline: May 29, 2003

Christal

On May 15, 2003, the honorable W.R. “Billie” Christal left this world to be with Jesus.

Born February 22, 1911, the son of Jim and Myrtle Christal, Billie resided in Donley County his entire life.

Billie married Gertrude Self on November 27, 1930.  They had two daughters, Joanne and Janiece.  Billie and Gertrude celebrated their life together for 62 years, until her passing in May 1992.

In addition to being a loving husband and father, Billie faithfully served his community.  Elected Donley County Judge in 1970, Billie carried out the duties of this office with honor and integrity for 26 years. 

A deacon of First Baptist Church of Clarendon, Billie also taught a men’s Sunday school class.  He helped further the education of area residents, as well as youth outside of Donley County, by serving on the Lelia Lake ISD Board of Trustees and the Clarendon College Board of Regents.  In addition, Billie served as treasurer of the Panhandle Regional Planning Commission for several years.

Billie also served as a past Master of the Clarendon Masonic Lodge #700, being honored with the Golden Trowel Award.  He also served as past patron of Clarendon Chapter 6, Order of the Eastern Star.

Billie is survived by his daughters Joanne Word of Amarillo; Janiece Kuhrau of Seattle, Washington; a nephew, Gene Alderson of Brownsville; six grandchildren, David Word of Eau Claire, Wisconsin; Mike Word of Clarendon; Tim Word of Houston; Kim Miller of Amarillo; Quentin Kuhrau and Clayton Kuhrau both of Seattle, Washington; twelve great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.

Please join the family in remembrance of this kind, loving, and loyal servant of God, as well as in the celebration of his eternal life.