STANBERRY, WILLIAM RAY "BILL", JR., 75 , passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, at the Kansas Veteran's Home in Winfield. A devoted father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, Bill lived a life marked by curiosity, ingenuity, service, and kindness.

Bill was born on November 15, 1949, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, to William Ray, Sr. and Margaret Louise (Bordelon) Stanberry. At an early age, his family moved to Derby, Kansas, where he grew up and graduated from Derby High School in 1967. While in school, Bill played trumpet in the band and developed a love for working with his hands. Alongside his dad, he worked on cars and small aircraft—tinkering, repairing, and even innovating. One of their proudest projects was designing and building one of the first jetskis, with Bill himself serving as the daring test pilot. That same adventurous spirit and determination to get things just right carried throughout his life.

In 1968, Bill was drafted into the United States Army, serving his country honorably for two years. Following his service, he studied business at Columbia University, where he honed the skills and perfectionist mindset that would define his career. He pursued engineering and later joined Cessna, designing aircraft interiors with meticulous attention to detail and a passion for excellence. Bill was deeply respected for his precision and dedication—qualities that made him invaluable in his work and admired by those who knew him.

Beyond his career, Bill found joy in simple pleasures and meaningful connections. He loved playing golf, shooting pool, and attending car shows, where he could admire the beauty and craftsmanship of classic automobiles. These hobbies reflected not only his appreciation for detail but also his love of camaraderie and community.

Bill's faith was an anchor throughout his life. Raised Catholic, he was a longtime member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Wichita, where he volunteered regularly at the Lord's Diner, serving those in need with compassion and humility. After moving to Georgia, he became active in his new parish, serving as a Eucharistic Minister and offering his time and heart to his church family. Bill's kindness, genuine spirit, and ability to truly listen made him a man people loved to be around.
Above all, Bill treasured his family. He was endlessly proud of his children and delighted in his grandchildren, cherishing every moment he spent with them. His family will remember him as a steady, loving presence with a generous heart, someone who always encouraged others to do their best and appreciated the beauty in both people and life's small details.

Bill is survived by his son, William Nicholas "Nick" Stanberry (Jackie); daughter, Tara Larson (Adam); and his beloved grandchildren: Alyssa Larson, Jason Stanberry (Olivia Ferdin), Taylor Aldrete (Dylan), Corbin Larson, Owen Stanberry, Sydney Larson, Claire Stanberry, Olivia Larson, Crosby Larson, and Oliver Larson. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will continue to honor his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Sr. and Margaret Stanberry, and his sister, Becky Stanberry.

A memorial Mass celebrating Bill's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 645 N 119th St. W, Wichita. Interment will follow at El Paso Cemetery in Derby.
Memorial donations in Bill's honor may be made to the Kansas Veteran's Home, the Lord's Diner, or the Alzheimer's Association.

Bill's life was one of service, creativity, faith, and love. His legacy will live on in the lives of all who were blessed to know him.