A memorial service will be held honoring and celebrating the life of Billy J. Livingston at 1:30 p.m Wednesday, August 8, 2018 in the First Baptist Church of Chickasha with Brother Greg Brooks officiating.
“Bill” was born March 8, 1932, in Fletcher, OK, the son of William Livingston and R. LaRue King. He was raised by his grandmother, Ola King. Bill had four brothers, and a sister. At the age of 17, Bill married the love of his life, Joy, and this matrimony continued 64 years. Bill graduated from Fletcher High School, and was then drafted in the U.S. Army, where he proudly served for two years. In 1953, Bill and Joy welcomed their first daughter, Vicki; and in 1955, a second daughter, Toye. Following Toye’s birth, the family moved to Edmond, OK, where Bill graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma.
Following college, the family relocated to Lawton, where Bill taught at Lawton High School for a short time. In the 1960’s, Bill found his passion in entrepreneurship, where he was a co-owner in furniture and manufacturing, oil, and hotel businesses. Later, the family moved to Chickasha, OK, purchasing a horse ranch, Livingston Farms. Throughout the 70’s and 80’s, Bill was active in politics and real estate; however, he found his greatest joy in the horse industry, breeding and racing Thoroughbred and Quarter horses. He was an avid horseman; serving as the President of the Oklahoma Thoroughbred Association. He played an active role in bringing Remington Park to the state of OK, and was also appointed to the OK State Insurance Commission Board. In 1996, Bill became co-founder and CEO of LifeLine Home Health & Hospice.
Bill had a strong work ethic; however, he found most joy in spending quality time with family and friends. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. He provided unconditional love, leadership, and encouragement.
On August 3, 2018, Bill passed from this Earth, in Oklahoma City. He was proceeded in death by his spouse, Joy Livingston; parents William and LaRue Livingston; and brothers Perry and Jerry Martin. He is survived by his two daughters and their spouses, Dr. Ed & Vicki Stewart, and Tim & Toye Reynolds. He is also survived by brothers Buddy and Johnny Livingston, sister Norma Nickarz, and their spouses; grandson Billy Moon, spouse Amanda; granddaughter April Downing, spouse Billy; granddaughter Kea Ginn, spouse Jeremy; granddaughter Dr. Linzi Stewart-Crawford, spouse Sean; and grandson Cole Stewart, and Lindsy. He leaves behind 15 great-grandchildren; a special niece, Kelly Nunn.
The family wishes to thank everyone for their prayers, cards, visits, and thoughts. The family would also like to thank Dr. Don Hess for the wonderful care provided throughout the years; as well as Sandra Hansen, Rita Bailey, and Martha Fine for providing Bill with unending friendship.