Billie W. "Bill" Cox, 80, of Tehachapi, passed away on May 1. He was born to Joe and Willie Mae Cox in Richmond, California. Bill was a 20-year Air Force retired Vietnam veteran. He was an aerial gunner with a Bronze Star, and went on to become a USAF Military Policeman.

After retirement, he furthered his education at Sacramento State University where he studied history. While in the Air Force, he met his wife, LaRita. They were married for 34 years, before her passing in 2008. Bill loved playing golf and mini golf, collecting coins, model trains and traveling with his family. His favorite football team was the San Francisco 49ers, and he also enjoyed watching college basketball. Bill loved to bring a smile to everyone's face. He was known for passing out chocolates anywhere he went.

Bill is survived by his daughters, Heather (Tom) and Kristel (Javier). Bill was a very proud grandpa of six grandchildren: Emily, Evan, Alex, George, Noah and Moses. He was preceded in death by his wife, LaRita; mother, Willie; and father and mother-in-law, Fred and Emily.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Tehachapi Vineyard Church, on May 13 at 9 a.m., 502 E. Pinon St., Tehachapi. Call (661) 822-9313 for more information.

Wood Family Funeral Service is handling the arrangements. For condolences, please visit http://www.woodmortuary.net/.