Racine – Billy Clay Boyd, a vibrant soul, departed from this world on November 28, 2023, at Ascension All Saints in Racine, WI, leaving behind a legacy filled with love, laughter, and enduring memories.

Born June 29, 1955, in Ripley, MS, to Jimmy and Zenola Boyd, Billy's journey began with the foundation of family. In 1957, the Boyds relocated to Chicago in pursuit of better opportunities, setting the stage for a life of growth, achievement, hard work, and love.

Billy's academic journey led him to graduate from Carl Schurz High School in Chicago, IL, in 1973. From childhood, Billy showcased his natural athleticism, a talent that opened doors for him to pursue higher education. With a passion for running and an innate sense of humor, Billy carved a unique path in life.

His zest for life was expressed through his love for dance, a keen sense of style, and an appreciation for great-smelling cologne. Family was at the heart of his joy, and he cherished every moment spent with his loved ones.

Billy's professional journey spanned nearly forty years as a skilled journeyman at Chrysler, where his dedication and hard work earned him the respect of colleagues. He retired in 2009, leaving behind a legacy of excellence.

However, it was Billy's role as a comedian that endeared him to many. His sense of humor, particularly his imitations of church services, had the power to bring tears of laughter to anyone fortunate enough to be in his company.

Billy leaves behind a vast network of love. He is survived by his daughter, Jasmine (Elroy) Holmes; his son, Maurice (Michelle) Hicks, the mother of his children, Zenobia Hicks-Boyd; sisters, Onnie Caldwell, Geraldine Griffin, Johnnie Ruth (Frank) Fortier, and Bobbie Boyd all of Chicago, IL; brother, Curtis Boyd of Chicago; grandchildren, DeAntray Hicks, Shardre Brown, LaShauna McPhearson, Devante Ratliff, Jaguar Davis, Dre-Kearra Hicks, Toneisha Johnson, Saverio Parker, Deyonce Hicks, Layanna Hicks, Diamond Curtis, A'Legacy Davis, Dallas Derring, Candace Gill, and Caroline Gill, Maurissa Hicks, Jaeda Holmes, and Jordyan Holmes; Connor Schacht, Kamary Hicks, Marcus Carpenter, and Evander Holmes; his dear friend, Dyan Boyd; sister-in-law Irma Boyd; and special friends, Larry Foster, Ezra Hicks, Minister Stanley Washington, John Simmons, and Berlin Funderburg were among those who held a special place in his heart.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy and Zenola Boyd; son Andre Hicks; brothers James Boyd and Charles Boyd Sr.; and sisters Justine Johnson, Eloise Boyd, and Lavora Johnson.

As we bid farewell to Billy Clay Boyd, we acknowledge that his absence will be felt deeply by more than just his children and family. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rest in peace, Billy. Your laughter will echo in our hearts forever.

Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory on Saturday, December 16, 2023, for a visitation from 10:00 am – 11:00 am.  A service celebrating his life and Homegoing will take place at 11:00 am.  His interment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park.

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