William Raymond Thornton

William Raymond 'Billy Ray' Thornton (1929–1974) was an American high school history teacher and basketball coach, best known as the father of actor, musician, and filmmaker Billy Bob Thornton.

He was born in 1929 and dedicated much of his professional life to education and sports, teaching history while also coaching basketball at the high school level. His dual role as both educator and coach made him a respected figure in his community, where he influenced many young students.

William Raymond married Virginia Roberta Faulkner (1934–2017), who later became known as a self-proclaimed psychic. Together they had several children, including Billy Bob Thornton, who would go on to become a celebrated Hollywood actor, director, and musician. Another son, Jimmy Don Thornton (1958–1988), pursued songwriting, and his compositions were later recorded by Billy Bob on his solo albums. The couple also had two other children.

William Raymond Thornton passed away in 1974 at the age of 45. Though his life was relatively short, his influence on his family, particularly on his children, left a lasting legacy that can be seen in their artistic and professional pursuits.