SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 324
In Memory
of
Billy Ray Clark
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the
citizens of Conroe in mourning the loss of Billy Ray "Wild Bill"
Clark, who died February 7, 2017, at the age of 86; and
WHEREAS, Billy Ray Clark was born on December 28, 1930, in
Timpson, Texas, and he grew up in Conroe; he was a star athlete
in high school who excelled in both track and football, and he
was known for his quick wit and his winning smile and sense of
humor; and
WHEREAS, Bill continued his academic career at Navarro
College until he answered the call to serve in the United States
Army during the Korean War; he served with distinction as a drill
sergeant and was honored with the Bronze Star and numerous other
service medals; and
WHEREAS, When the war ended, Bill returned to Conroe to
work in the oil fields, and he continued on this career path by
engaging in more challenging work in South Texas; he retired from
the oil industry as a drilling superintendent for Richards
Drilling after 30 years in the field; and
WHEREAS, Soon after his retirement, Bill returned to
Conroe to begin a business career with his son at Clark's Country
Stores in the Grangerland community; he retired a second time in
the mid-1990s to spend his time hunting, fishing, playing
dominoes, and gardening, and he became known for growing enormous
watermelons that weighed as much as 80 pounds; and
WHEREAS, Bill Clark was a devoted father and grandfather
who was beloved throughout the community, and he leaves behind
memories that will long be cherished by all who were privileged
to share in his life; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th
Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved
family of Billy Ray Clark; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas
Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in
memory of Billy Ray Clark.
Creighton
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on February 28, 2017,
by a rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate