Billy Wayne Cruse

Billy Wayne Cruse Sr., a beloved family man, dedicated service representative, and skilled mechanic, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, in Grenada, Mississippi.

A visitation honoring the life of Mr. Cruse will be held on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Ray Funeral Home, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 2:00 PM. A Graveside Service will then take place at the Shaw Cemetery immediately after.

Billy was born on September 4, 1939, to Dewey and Winnie Cruse in Pontotoc, Mississippi. Billy lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to family, and a deep love for the outdoors.

Billy enjoyed a long and productive career including 18 years with Allis Chalmers as a service representative covering several states. Following that, Billy spent 38 years with BEBCO Irrigations sales and services, where he shared his expertise alongside his son. A staple of the community, he was known for his unwavering commitment to his work. He retired in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of excellence which left all who met him saying that he was one of the best diesel mechanics they've ever met.

Education was a foundational milestone in Billy's life; he graduated from Lambert High School. His remarkable career was a testament to his strong work ethic, as was his passion for the pursuits that brought him joy-hunting, fishing, and savoring coffee were among his cherished joys.

Above all, Billy was a family man at heart. He cherished each moment spent with his grandchildren, Marc Miller (Heather), Elizabeth Miller Sanders (Chris), Bryce Cruse, and Shelton Fulgham, as well as his great-grandchildren, Cole Miller, Reese Delahoussaye, Avery Cate Smith, and Cale Sanders. His love for them was profound and unwavering, and he took immense pride in his role as "Granddaddy".

Billy is survived by his devoted wife, Sue Gordon Cruse; his daughter, Lisa Cruse Miller (Kent); his son, Bill Cruse Jr. (Frances); and his sisters, Sylvia Cruse Hood (Jimmy) and Debbie Cruse Maxwell (Charlie), a niece Beth Hardy (Jay), nephews Jim Hood (Angie), Chris Cruse (Nikki), and a host of cousins who admired him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Winnie Cruse, and his brother, Jimmy "Bud" Dewayne Cruse.

Billy Wayne Cruse Sr. will be fondly remembered by all who knew him for his generous spirit, love of family, and the joy he found in life's simple pleasures. His legacy is one that will endure through the hearts of his family and the memories they share.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to St. Jude or the charity of your choice.