William Lee "Billy" Lantow

A graveside service with military honors to remember and celebrate the life of William Lee "Billy" Lantow will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, August 22, 2025, at Wards Grove Cemetery in Foyil. Billy passed away at his home in Claremore on Sunday, August 17, 2025. He was 77 years old.
Born in Claremore, OK on December 1, 1947, to William J. and Thelda L. (Rucker) Lantow. Billy was raised and educated in Claremore. He attended Claremore Public Schools and Oklahoma Military Academy where he received his high school diploma. He continued his education at West Texas State University (which is now West Texas A&M University), on a football scholarship, where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree. Billy was the father of three children, John, Shana, and River. He provided for his family working as a Chemical Engineer for Helmerich & Payne and Parker Drilling. During his employment with Helmerich & Payne, Billy got to travel internationally and see some beautiful countries. Peru and Brazil are just 2 of many.
In high school Billy was a force to be reckoned with on the football field. In college he was a part of the West Texas University Buffaloes football team, (where he was nicknamed "General Galaxy"), and played with Mercury Morris and Duane Thomas and both went on to play professional football with the Miami Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys respectively. Because of his undeniable talent on the football field, Billy even had the opportunity to try out for the San Diego Chargers.
A man that truly liked the outdoors. When free time presented itself, Billy liked golf in his younger days. He liked bicycling around Claremore. He remained an avid football fan his entire life and could be found many times watching a game on television. Billy was referred to by his family as always being the life of the party. He never took things very seriously and preferred having a good time over anything else. Billy had a great sense of humor and people were naturally drawn to him.
A man that has left a legacy that will live on in the lives of his family and friends. Billy is survived by his children, John William Lantow, Shana Fabian and husband Brian, River Lantow, grandchildren, JT Thompson, Katelyn Thompson, Ryan Thompson, sisters, Suzanne Voss and husband Larry, Dana Richardson and husband Gary, numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. Billy was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.