Arthur Billingsley

Arthur J. Billingsley of Cottonwood passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2015. He was 95 years old. Arthur was born on October 4, 1919 in Farwell, TX to John and Velma Billingsley. After graduating from high school Arthur joined the Army and served his country in WWII, he achieved the rank of Captain and was decorated with many honors and medals. During his civilian working life, Arthur did a variety of things including working as an engineer for the Santa Fe Railroad and as a corrections officer for Folsom Prison. He retired from the Chino Valley School District. Arthur was known locally in part because he has played Santa Claus in Cottonwood for the last 17 years, helping to keep magic alive in our hearts. He was a member of Faith Baptist Church and he enjoyed camping, listening to music, reading and doing crossword puzzles. He was a loving spouse, father, grandfather and friend. Arthur was preceded in death by his first wife, Bea Billingsley and his daughter Lynda Dee Cadache. He is survived by his wife of five years, Michelle Billingsley of Cottonwood; his son, Kirk (Shelia) Billingsley of Montclair, CA; his daughter, Mary (Jay) Sabatello of Goodyear, AZ; seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Private family services have already been held, but memorial donations in his name may be made to the Cottonwood Humane Society, 1520 W. Mingus Ave, Cottonwood, AZ 86326. An online guestbook is available to sign at www.westcottfuneralhome.com