Billy Ray Mercer

August 15, 1945 - March 2, 2020

Billy Ray Mercer, 74, Altus, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2020 at the Jackson County Memorial Hospital. Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Friday, March 6, 2020 in the Altus Church of God with Pastor Earnest Everman officiating. Burial will follow in the Victory Cemetery under the direction of the Kincannon Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Billy Ray was born on August 15, 1945 in Harrah, Oklahoma to Vernon Clyde and Lena (Sanders) Mercer. He grew up in Harrah and graduated from Harrah High School in 1963. Billy Ray then joined the United States Air Force on February 23, 1965 and served over 26 years, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant on March 1, 1991. He served in tours to Vietnam and the Persian Gulf. During the Persian Gulf War, Billy served as a diplomat to Egypt and Spain. He received numerous medals including the Meritorious Service Medal with 1 bronze oak leaf cluster, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with 3 bronze oak leaf clusters, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with 3 bronze oak leaf clusters, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 3 bronze stars, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with 4 bronze oak leaf clusters. Billy Ray and Alma Meeks were married on October 26, 1973 in Altus, Oklahoma. After his retirement, Billy worked for the City of Altus Parks and Recreation Department for 19 years. Billy Ray enjoyed gardening and being in nature. His parents and a brother-in-law John Cedars preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife Alma, of the home. Three daughters Tammy Lynn Mercer, Billie Rea Hales (husband Robert Sr.) and Angelique Meguess. Three sons Christopher Mercer (wife Erin Lambert), Ronny Hale (wife Sandy) and Rodney Hale. 20 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and siblings who are Susie Whitnah (husband Don), Oscar Kazara (wife Jerry), Pat Taylor (husband Joe), Mary Quirk (husband Allen) and Jolee Cedars. Also survived by many other family and friends. Online tributes may be made at kincannonfuneralhome.com