Billy Ray Baham

Billy Ray Baham, age 83, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2024. Billy was born on Friday, June 20, 1941, in Harlan County, Kentucky, to parents Arthur Ray Baham and Alice Lee (Sparks) Simpson, who preceded Billy in death. Billy attended Decatur Central High School in Indianapolis, Indiana, and graduated in 1961. After graduation, Billy served his country by enlisting in the United States Army prior to the onset of the Vietnam War. In the Army, he was with the 173rd Airborne Brigade of the 503rd Infantry. Billy was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, and completed missions in Vietnam. On Wednesday, June 30th, 1965, Billy was honorably discharged from the Army. Billy met and married Helen Jane (Cary) Baham. Together, they began a family and shared two sons: Raymond Arthur Baham and Anthony “Tony” Baham. The marriage was sadly cut short due to Helen’s untimely death. Billy continued his path as a widower until he met his lifelong companion, Amy Smallwood, and as a couple, they raised his two young boys, along with her two young daughters, Amy and Karen. Bill worked full-time as a Quality Control Technician at General Motors in Indianapolis and also attended Ivy Tech to obtain his certification to become an HVAC technician. Billy continued to work at General Motors for many years until his retirement. Billy was a character. Billy’s service, pride, and love of his country lit a passion in him that lasted the rest of his life. He enjoyed watching anything related to military or historical events. Billy was a history buff and made sure he watched the news and kept up with the current events as well. Billy was a participant in the 50th anniversary of the 82nd Airborne Division. Jumping with ‘Soldier of Fortune’ magazine in Mexico City, Mexico. He became an honorary member of the Mexican Airborne (FAM) and was still skydiving at the age of 75. If you were around Billy over the years, you might get a hint of the smell of cherry from the cherry tobacco in the pipe he would smoke from time to time. Billy served as President of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 211, where he enjoyed throwing darts, dancing, and playing pool with friends. Billy was quite the pool player back in the day, at one time ranking third in Indiana State at 9 Ball Pool. Billy was also a dog lover and has given more than one dog a place to call home over the years. Billy was part of the silent generation; he lived his life simply and left this world quietly. Billy will be sadly missed but lovingly remembered by his son, Anthony (Jackie) Baham; Amy Smallwood and Karen Thompson grandchildren; Dustin, Jacob, Antonia, and Hannah Baham; brother, Kirby Simpson; and sisters, Wanda Mudd and Elsie Blankenship. In addition to Billy’s wife, Helen, and parents, Arthur and Alice, Billy is preceded in death by his son, Raymond, his brother, Roger Simpson, and his longtime companion, Amy Smallwood. In accordance with Billy’s wishes, he will be cremated, and no service will take place at this time. A celebration of life will take place later, at an undetermined date. The Liming Family Funeral Home has been honored to serve the family of Billy Ray Baham.

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