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1950
William "Billy"
2026
William R. "Billy" Wimbish Jr.
January 4, 1950 — April 9, 2026
Clarksville
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of William R. Wimbish Jr., known fondly as "Billy," a beloved member of the Clarksville, VA community, who peacefully departed this world on Thursday, April 9th, 2026, at the age of 76. Born on January 4th, 1950, in South Boston, Virginia, William's life was marked by dedication to his profession and his loved ones.
Billy was a devoted husband to Tony Ratcliffe, with whom he shared a beautiful life for 31 years. His nurturing spirit extended to his sister, Beverly Cropp, and her husband Tom, and his adoptive sister, Ruth Leffers, as well as his numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Billy was preceded in death by his father, William Randolph Wimbish Sr., his mother, Adele, and his adoptive parents, Shirley Stebbins Sr. and Rebekah Stebbins. He was also predeceased by his adopted sisters, Fredricka Patgorski and Nancy Burnette, and his adopted brother, Buck Stebbins.
A man of intelligence and compassion, Billy earned a Master's Degree and pursued a career as a pharmacist. Over his 30-year career, Billy served the Charlottesville and Harrisonburg communities with dedication and care.
In 2012, Billy retired and moved Harrisonburg, VA, to be with Tony. Then, in 2016 Tony retired and they moved to Clarksville, where they enjoyed their days by the lake with their dogs Toby and Bobo. Billy was known for his love of entertaining and was a wonderful host to many gatherings. A nature lover, he delighted in caring for his orchids and pet fish. Billy's curious mind made him an avid reader who was passionate about staying informed on current topics.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 18th, in the upstairs of the Clarksville Marina Building, located at 411 Fourth Street, Clarksville, VA, at 12:00 PM. Billy's family would like to extend an invitation to join them for a time of remembrance and celebration of Billy's life.
The family would like to thank all those who have offered support, kindness, and love during this difficult time. Arrangements are being handled by Watkins Cooper Lyon Funeral Home, Clarksville, VA. Though Billy has left us, his memory and the countless lives he touched will continue to resonate.
Billy was a devoted husband to Tony Ratcliffe, with whom he shared a beautiful life for 31 years. His nurturing spirit extended to his sister, Beverly Cropp, and her husband Tom, and his adoptive sister, Ruth Leffers, as well as his numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Billy was preceded in death by his father, William Randolph Wimbish Sr., his mother, Adele, and his adoptive parents, Shirley Stebbins Sr. and Rebekah Stebbins. He was also predeceased by his adopted sisters, Fredricka Patgorski and Nancy Burnette, and his adopted brother, Buck Stebbins.
A man of intelligence and compassion, Billy earned a Master's Degree and pursued a career as a pharmacist. Over his 30-year career, Billy served the Charlottesville and Harrisonburg communities with dedication and care.
In 2012, Billy retired and moved Harrisonburg, VA, to be with Tony. Then, in 2016 Tony retired and they moved to Clarksville, where they enjoyed their days by the lake with their dogs Toby and Bobo. Billy was known for his love of entertaining and was a wonderful host to many gatherings. A nature lover, he delighted in caring for his orchids and pet fish. Billy's curious mind made him an avid reader who was passionate about staying informed on current topics.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 18th, in the upstairs of the Clarksville Marina Building, located at 411 Fourth Street, Clarksville, VA, at 12:00 PM. Billy's family would like to extend an invitation to join them for a time of remembrance and celebration of Billy's life.
The family would like to thank all those who have offered support, kindness, and love during this difficult time. Arrangements are being handled by Watkins Cooper Lyon Funeral Home, Clarksville, VA. Though Billy has left us, his memory and the countless lives he touched will continue to resonate.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of William R. "Billy" Wimbish Jr., please visit our flower store.
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