James Ray Bilbrey, Sr.

James Ray Bilbrey, Sr. of Rule, Texas passed away Wednesday, April 2, 2014 at his home in Rule.  Mr. Bilbrey was 64.  Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, April 4, 2014 at Sweet Home Baptist Church with Rev. Billy Sellers officiating.  Interment will take place immediately following the services at Rule Cemetery under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Homes.  Visitation is planned for Thursday evening, April 3 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home located at 600 Robins.

James was born November 8, 1949 in Denver City, Texas to Alma Imogene (Bush) and Charles Gene Bilbrey, Sr. He graduated from Abilene High School in 1967 and was a longtime resident of Hamlin, Texas prior to moving to Rule 6 years ago.  James was a retired truck driver and was fortunate to see the 48 U.S. contiguous states.  He loved animals and taking care of them, enjoyed hunting and fishing and was always found tinkering with something.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Imogene and Charles Bilbrey, Sr.; and a brother, Charles Gene Bilbrey, Jr.

James is survived by his daughter, Katrina Littlefield; son, James Bilbrey, Jr. and wife Aimee; 3 grandsons, Bendon, Dusty, and Wyatt Littlefield; brother, Ronnie Bilbrey; sister, Shirley Hughes; and numerous nieces and nephews.