William “Bill” Raymond Wyatt
William “Bill” Raymond Wyatt passed away at the age of 50 on August 12, 2017. Bill was born in Los Angeles, California on September 10, 1966. His parents moved the family to Porterville, California when Bill was 9 years old. He was the youngest of five children.
Bill graduated from Porterville High School in 1984. Bill’s artistic talents led him to enroll in the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Bill graduated from GIA with his A.S. degree and Jewelers Certification.
Bill then started to hone his craft of jewelry repair and design at a local jewelry store. Bill went on to open his own jewelry store called The Sierra Jeweler. He enjoyed the challenges of creating and customizing jewelry pieces for his patrons. Bill was also one of the very few jewelers certified in jewelry repair in Tulare County. Bill and his store were voted “The Best Jewelry Store” in Porterville in 2007. After many years of service to his patrons, it was with a heavy heart that he had to close his business in May 2011 due to health reasons.
Bill was an avid photographer. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially deepsea fishing, with his family and friends. He was a very talented craftsman making miniature furniture. He had a very keen sense for detail. He was a member of the Porterville Chamber of Commerce, the Porterville Masonic Temple and the Porterville Clampers.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Christine Wyatt, his brother Samuel Wyatt and his sister Dorothy Cook.
Bill is survived by his wife of 24 years, Kim Wyatt, his sister Paulette Carpenter and her life partner, John Mendonsa, and his brother Brian Wyatt and his wife, Marci. He also leaves behind three nieces, four nephews, and four great nephews.
Bill was a devoted husband, loving son, brother and uncle. He was a friend to everyone he met. His life ended far too soon. We will carry in our hearts the kindness, compassion, honesty and love he gave to each of us.
A Celebration of Life Memorial was held for Bill on August 20, 2017 at their home.