William Stanley

William “Billy” Stanley, a devoted farmer, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, in Jet, Oklahoma, at the age of 89. Born on June 30, 1935, in Cherokee, Billy cultivated not only the land but also a legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to rural telecommunications.

Throughout his remarkable life, Billy served with honor in the Oklahoma National Guard, showcasing his commitment to his country. A skilled woodworker in his leisure time, he found joy in creating pieces that reflected his craftsmanship and love for his family.

 Billy's professional journey was marked by significant accomplishments that spoke to his leadership abilities and passion for improving rural services. He was one of the founding fathers of the Foundation for Rural Service in 1994, where he served as president and was instrumental in advocating for the importance of rural telecommunications. His ten years as a board member and vice president of the National Telephone Cooperative Association highlighted his dedication to this cause, as he made fifteen consecutive trips to Washington, D.C. to educate Congress on rural telecommunications issues.

 He also led the Jet Rural Telephone Company as president for seven years and remained a board member of the KanOkla Telephone Association for over three decades. His contributions were recognized through numerous accolades, including the National Telephone Cooperative Association Lifetime Director Achievement Award, the Oklahoma Telephone Association Bill Barnes Award, and his induction into both the Oklahoma Telephone Association Hall of Fame and the Kansas Telecommunications Hall of Fame.

 Billy’s community involvement extended beyond telecommunications; he proudly served as president of the Oklahoma Angus Association and the Northwest District Angus Association, as well as being a board member of the local grain cooperative and a 4-H leader for 15 years in Alfalfa County. His commitment to supporting youth and agriculture led to numerous honors, including the State Farmer Award, honorary chapter farmer status, and both the 4-H Silver Clover and National Foundation awards.

 He was a valued member and trustee of the Jet United Methodist Church and participated actively in the Jet Lions Club, contributing to the betterment of his community. He also served as president of the Pleasant View Cemetery Board.

 Billy leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, Bonnie Stanley; sons Gib Stanley and wife Shelly of Nash, Trigg Stanley and wife Kim of Enid; daughter Shawn Collins and husband Dale of Jet; grandchildren Lucas Reinhart and wife Bailee, Lacey Johnson and husband Levi, Logan Reinhart and wife Tiffany, Sadie Ivy and husband Blake, T.J. Stanley, Lindy Cronister and husband Justin, Carsan Jones and husband Keaton; and great-grandchildren Lilly Johnson, Ella Johnson, Callen Johnson, Audrey Reinhart, Kelce Ivy, Halen Stanley, Rhett Jones, Cade Cronister, and Hadlea Cronister. Brother, Jerry Stanley.

 He is preceded in death by his parents, William H. and Frances L. Stanley, as well as siblings John Gilbert, Billie Jean, Albert L., and Lillybelle.

 A memorial service to honor Billy's life and legacy will be held on December 11, 2024, at Jet Community Church in Jet, Oklahoma, at 2:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate the life of a man who truly dedicated himself to his family, his community, and the advancement of rural services.

 Arrangements are by Lanman Funeral Home, Inc. of Helena. www.lanmanfuneralhome.com