Billy Gray Cauley's Obituary
Billy Gray Cauley, age 96, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2025. He was born on December 4, 1928, in Hot Springs, Virginia, to the late Raymond and Edna Cauley.
Billy was preceded in death by his first wife, Dorothy Cauley, who passed away in 1999. Together, they had two children, Donna Cauley and Michael (Dora) Cauley. He was a proud grandfather to William Gagliardi and Donald Cauley, and a loving great-grandfather to McKenzie, Hunter, Elizabeth, Gavin, Blake, and Landon.
On July 8, 2006, Billy married his second wife, Janice Praedel, and embraced her family as his own. Janice's children, Raymond (Linda) Praedel, Lloyd (Cheryl) Praedel, Paul Praedel, David (Kathy) Praedel, along with 13 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, were welcomed into his heart.
Billy is survived by his brother, Dr. Lanier Cauley. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Raymond Cauley Jr. and Watson Peery.
A proud veteran, Billy served in the United States Army during the Korean War. After his military service, he earned a master's degree in engineering from Virginia Tech. His career included work at Thompson Products (later known as TRW), NASA, and a long tenure at General Motors, where he worked for over 25 years until his retirement.
Billy was a devoted family man, known affectionately as the "baby whisperer" for his special bond with his grandchildren. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, and bowling, and loved traveling with Janice, visiting their hometowns and family and exploring Florida during the winter months. For over 50 years, he delighted children with his homemade fudge at Halloween.
Billy was a unique and special man who was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Memorial Services will be held at a later date.
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