Billy Ray Canipe, 82, of Plant City, and formerly of Baltimore, died Feb. 20, 2015, surrounded by his family.
Mr. Canipe, son of Lucille and L.W. Canipe, was born May 30, 1932 in Mitchell County, North Carolina, and raised in Kingsport, Tennessee. He worked hard for his family at Bethlehem Steel in Baltimore for 42 years and retired to Plant City. He was in the Air Police in the U.S. Air Force and served during the Korean War. He was formerly a member of Plant City Moose Lodge #1668. He was a member of the NRA, a true blue American and a 110% dedicated Democrat. He enjoyed being with family and friends, traveling and listening to bluegrass music. He was fiercely proud of his roots and heritage. All that knew him thought him to be a truly loving, good and honest man. He was Baptist by faith.
He is survived by his daughters, Deborah Canipe Wanner and Patricia Canipe; son-in-law, George Wanner; grandson, Phillip Wanner; granddaughter, Susan Wanner; longtime companion, Kathy Cast; brothers, Artie Canipe, Wade Canipe and Bud Moon; sisters, Gladys Shackelford, Glenna Lisenby and Brenda Bundrant; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 35 years, Helen, who died Aug. 7, 1986.
A funeral was held Monday, Feb. 23, at Wells Memorial Monday, Feb. 23. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Mooseheart, Mooseheaven or Lifepath Hospice. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.