Billy Ray Stearns

Billy Ray Stearns, 67, of Goreville, passed away at 8:00pm, Tuesday, April 22, 2003 at VA Medical Center, Marion.

Funeral services were held at 11:00am, Saturday, April 26, 2003 at the Busby chapel Church with Rev. Kenny Blumenstock and Fred Meece officiating. Interment was held at Busby Cemetery, Goreville. Military rites were conducted at the gravesite by the V. F. W. 1301 of Marion. Friends could call from 5:00 until 8:00pm, Friday, April 25, 2003 at Busby Chapel Church.

Memorials could be made to Busby Chapel Church, Building Fund and was accepted by the funeral home.

Billy Ray was born October 6, 1935 to ray and Violet (JOHNS) Stearns. He married Linda Rae Prater on April 21, 1961 at Buncombe. Billy was preceded in death by the father.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Rae Stearns of Goreville; one son and daughter-in-law, Billy Wayne and Donna Stearns of Hudson, Florida; two grandchildren, Diantha and Billy Ray Stearns both of Hudson, Florida; his mother, Violet Stearns of Goreville; and one sister and brother-in-law, Joy and Jack Jones of Goreville.

Billy Ray was a member of the Busby Chapel Church where he served as a deacon. He represented the church at the monthly Ministerial Alliance meetings. He was also a member of the Ruitan's and Woodman of the World. Mr. Stearns was a volunteer with the Goreville Fire Department. Billy Ray was employed as a maintenance man with the Forestry Department. He had previously been employed at Terry Automotive and Supply in Goreville and Kimmel Automotive Supply in Marion, Billy Ray served his country with the U. S. Army.

Meredith Funeral Chapel, Goreville was in charge of arrangements.