Billy Eugene Harryman

Billy Eugene Harryman, age 88 of Lexington, passed away Friday October 23, 2015, surrounded by his loving family. Gene was born October 25, 1926 in Lexington, OK, 1 of 4 children born to George Manual Harryman and Ruth Opal (Kees) Harryman. He was raised in Lexington and attended Lexington Schools, graduating in 1944. He then attended the University of Oklahoma for a year before transferring to Central State College (now UCO) in Edmond. He graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Education in 1952, and later with a Masters of Administration Degree. Gene married his best friend and the love of his life; a young lady named JoAnn Bryant, on September 2, 1951 in Oklahoma City. They first made their home in Idaho where Gene taught school for more than 10 years. They then lived in Oregon for a couple of years before moving back to Oklahoma. Gene finished his teaching career at Comanche and Eufaula before retiring after more than 34 years in the classroom. He and JoAnn settled back home in Lexington in August of 1995. Throughout his life, he continued to learn, with continuing education and professional development, and he was proud to earn his Counseling Certificate in 1977. Gene was a man with many passions and talents. He enjoyed fishing and hunting. He loved horses and even participated in amateur team roping. He trained and showed quarter horses and was a lifetime member of the American Quarter Horse Association. Gene loved music! He had a beautiful voice and enjoyed playing his harmonica. Gene was fascinated with Native American culture and collected many unique pieces of art and history. He was a faithful member of the Lexington United Methodist Church for many years. He will be dearly missed! He was preceded in death by: His parents, George and Ruth Harryman; His brother, Gary Harryman; Grandson, Tyler Babcock and 2 nephews, Paul and Jamie Looman. Billy leaves behind: His wife, JoAnn Harryman of the home; 3 Children, Laura Harryman of Lexington, Leah Babcock and husband Mark of Ada, Peter von Groote and wife Rebecca of Lexington, KY; 3Granddaughters, Courtney Book and husband Nick, Katie Romines and husband Derrick and Summit Durant and Jordan; Great grandchildren, Braxton, Avery, Bellamy, Weslyn, Charlotte Jean, Teralyn, Laynia and Adam; Brother, Ron Harryman and wife Mickie of Lexington; Sister, Betty Looman of Tulsa; Son-In-Law, David Durant of Tupelo; Extended Family, Kevin Bond and wife LouNell and their children, Angel, Leiloni, Trystan, Joanna, Simmeon Gene and Jennifer; Curtis Bond and wife Ladonna and their children, Anna, Ashley and Christopher; Louis Ortiz and their children, Jimmy, Heather and Austin Gene; Other special People in his life, Candy Martilla, Craig Prater and Kelly Prater; And a host of other family and friends. Memorial Services are scheduled for 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, October 28, 2015, at the Wilson-Little Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorials be made to United Methodist Circle of Care, 1501 NW 24th St #214, Oklahoma City, OK 73106, or the Charity of Your Choice. Arrangements by Wilson-Little Funeral Home in Purcell.

Billy Eugene Harryman

October 25, 1926 - October 23, 2015