William Churry Jr

William James Churry Jr., known lovingly to friends and family as "Billy," passed away peacefully on February 9, 2025, in the Neuro ICU at Desert Regional Hospital in Palm Springs. He was surrounded by the loving care of nurses Seane and Diane in his final moments, and the unwavering support of his dear wife, Doris, who was by his side as he took his final journey to the Angels.

Born on December 29, 1937, in the beautiful Grandview Heights of Columbus, Ohio, Billy was a spirited and affable soul, whose laughter and zest for life drew people in effortlessly. He spent his formative years embraced by memories of his time at Grandview Heights High School, where he proudly represented the Rooks fraternity and served as Vice President of his class. Those turbulent teenage years were filled with camaraderie, with cherished buddies Don Abbruzezi, Ron Capuana, and Buddy Mesi by his side.

Billy's adventurous spirit led him to enlist in the United States Air Force, where he served honorably as an Air Policeman. He often shared fond tales of patrolling alongside Chuck Norris, an experience that showcased both his bravery and his knack for storytelling. Upon completing his military service, he transitioned into a rewarding civilian career in finance. He quickly rose to branch manager and vice president in banking, affectionately earning the nickname “Mr. Bill” from his staff, who admired him not just for his professional excellence but for his heartfelt gestures — like crafting delicious root beer floats to celebrate their successful closings on Friday evenings.

After retiring from banking, Billy took on a new challenge in sales with Ford, where he thrived as their "Closer." He embodied the spirit of tenacity and people-oriented service throughout his ten additional years of fulfilling employment.

Billy’s greatest joy was spending time with his beloved wife, Doris. Their marriage spanned an incredible 62 years, filled with warm memories, laughter, and romance. He delighted in surprising her with roses — two dozen red ones, his favorite — always knowing how to brighten her day, whether at her campus office at UC Riverside or during Soroptimist meetings. Those sweet surprises were just one facet of his deep love and adoration for her.

Together, they shared countless boating adventures, where Billy transformed into Captain Billy aboard their cherished 30-foot boat, the Churry's Jubilee, docked at Oceanside. Their love for adventure took them on a remarkable 27 cruises around the world, the last of which was a memorable journey together in December 2024. They relished time spent in the tropical bliss of Maui and basked in the beauty of Caribbean islands — returning many times to their beloved vacation spots was an exciting part of their lives together.

Billy is survived by his loving wife, Doris; his cherished son, David Churry; and his sister-in-law, Bonnie Galvan. He rejoins his beloved family members who have preceded him in death: his older brother, John (Jack) Churry, and his parents, Juanita and William Churry Sr.

Billy’s legacy is one of laughter, adventure, and love. He was the "guy you liked to be around,” always good-natured, ready to share a laugh or a story that would bring a smile to anyone's face. He filled the world with joy and will be deeply missed.

A funeral service to honor his remarkable life will take place at the Forest Lawn - Cathedral City - Ramon Chapel in Cathedral City, CA, on February 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM, followed by burial services at Riverside National Cemetery, on February 26th, 2025 @1:15pm (sharp) where he will receive full military honors, including the playing of Taps and a 21-gun salute.

As we remember Billy, let us carry forward his spirit of laughter, love, and adventure. His heart may have been brave, but it was his colorful personality and fierce love that truly made him unforgettable.