Billy Clausen

Billy was born on November 10, 1924, in Mobile, the son of Annie Laurie and William Albertus Clausen. He was a graduate of Murphy High School Class of 1942. Upon graduation, he was drafted by the New York Giants organization and was a professional baseball player in the position of catcher. He played with such baseball greats as Gabby Hartnett, Sal Maglie, Ben Chapmen, Art Fowler, and Billy Gardner. World War II military service interrupted Billy’s baseball career from 1945 to 1947. Upon his release from the U.S. Army, he played professionally again until 1949.

After his baseball career, Billy purchased the Ballweg’s Shoe Store which he operated for 37 years. Upon selling the shoe repair store, Billy became the bailiff to Judge Ferrill McRae whom he served until he and the Judge retired. His service to the Judge, which lasted for over 20 years, resulted in a deep and lasting friendship between them until the Judge’s death. Billy made many other friends at the Mobile County Court House including Becky Drago and Tom Martin, who was also a high school buddy.

On December 10, 1949, Billy made the best decision of his life by marrying Anna Foster, his wife of 64 years, whom he referred to as his “Panda Bear”. He is survived by Anna Foster Clausen and their three children, Jana Renegar Clausen, William Drew Clausen (Joanne), and Laura “Tinker” Clausen-Davis. Billy was blessed with nine grandchildren: Michael Renegar, Kelly Clausen, Christopher Clausen, Ashley Clausen, Devin Clausen, Carolyn Joanne (CJ) Clausen, Conner Davis, Dillon Davis, and Logan Davis; and two great-grandsons, Gavin Renegar and Gabe Renegar. Billy also leaves behind a future son-in-law, Christopher Francis (Tinker), who over the last few years provided companionship and loving care creating a special bond for both men.

The family wishes to express appreciation to Dr. Martin Lester, their long time doctor and friend, as well as the staff of Gentiva Hospice and Janet Brannan, for their compassionate assistance in helping Anna during Billy’s last hours. The devotion between Anna and Billy was evident in her insistence to care for him herself, in their home. Some of Billy’s last words to family were, “I have been lucky all my life, but the smartest thing I ever did was marry Panda.”

The family will receive visitors at Radney Funeral Home on Dauphin Street on Sunday, January 26, 2014, from 3-5 p.m. The interment will be a private, family only event at Pine Crest Cemetery. At that time we will celebrate the wonderful and full life of a loving husband and father. Contributions to the American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers are most appreciated. Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com. Arrangements under the direction of Radney Funeral Home-Mobile, Mobile, AL.