After seven and one half years as the Bristow Cemetery Sexton, Billy Ledbetter officially retired on Oct. 3. The City of Bristow had a small retirement party for him, which was held at the Rt. 66 Venue. Instead of the normal “Happy Retirement” banners and colorful balloons, the Venue was decorated like a cemetery, complete with skeletons, headstones and a graveyard cake.
When asked what he was going to do after retiring, he made mention of the reindeer farm. “October is the start of the busy season for the reindeer”, said Billy. Billy's son and his wife, Nick and Crystal, own the Reindeer farm. Billy, whose new title is Director of Reindeer Information, and wife Susan, help out during the busy season. They’ll have visitors to the farm as well as functions where the reindeer are the main attraction. Once Christmas has passed, one would think that Billy would take a break. However, he and Susan are going to Alaska to run a marathon with the reindeer. Billy stated, “after April, I’m not sure what’s next.” One thing is for certain, Billy will be missed by all his co-workers and the friends he has made in the last seven and one half years.