Billy Gene Wilson

Billy Gene Wilson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away in Benton, Arkansas on January 14, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on March 8, 1939, in Malvern, Arkansas, he was a 1958 graduate of Bauxite High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Linda Bell Wilson.

Bill dedicated 34 years of his life to Alcoa, where he was known for his commitment and hard work. He took great pride in his career while cherishing the moments spent with his family away from work.

Bill and Linda shared a beautiful journey together over the course of their 63 years of marriage. They created countless cherished memories through their love for travel, enjoying cruises and making annual trips to Branson with friends and family.

Bill was a man of strong faith and character. He exemplified God in all his actions and was the heart of his family. Known to affectionately greet his loved ones with a warm "Hi Sweetheart," he brought joy to those around him. His family was always the highlight of his life. He is remembered as the "Man" of the family, embodying love and dedication that resonated with everyone he touched.

Bill found great fulfillment in his service at Trinity Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher to the young married age group, a role he held dear to his heart. Bill and Linda worked with many married couples, becoming their mentors and role models.

Bill leaves behind his devoted wife of sixty-three years, Linda Bell Wilson of Benton, Arkansas; daughters: Marci Genell Yates and husband Reed, and Dana Marie Bradshaw and husband Joe, both of Benton, Arkansas; grandchildren, Morgan Fulcher and husband Luke, Megan Johnson, Caitlin Milbourn and husband David, Hope Bradshaw, Anna Grace Yates, Haley Yates, Shelby Ramirez and husband Tristan, Addie Bradshaw, Kinley Bradshaw, and Carlyn Bradshaw; great-grandchildren, Westin Johnson, Laine Ellen Fulcher, Kate Wilson Fulcher, Dawson Milbourn, Jocelyn Milbourn, Percy Milbourn, and Delilah Milbourn. He is also survived by sisters Helen O'Kelley of Bauxite, Arkansas and Diane Goins of Benton, Arkansas; brother and sister-in-law, Ray and Glenda Davis of Boynton Beach, Florida; and a host of extended family members and friends who love Bill and will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny Lee and Mabel Irene (Gray) Wilson; brother, Don Wilson; sisters, Mary Lee Whitmire and Martha Wallace; father and mother-in-law, Woodrow and Dulcie Bell; and brothers-in-law, L.A. O'Kelley and Marion Whitmire.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas.  Funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 10 AM at Trinity Baptist Church, 702 Church Street in Benton, Arkansas. Burial held at Pinecrest Memorial Park on Tuesday, January 21 at 1:00 PM.

Assisting as pallbearers are Jack Wallace, Gary Don Griffis, Luke Fulcher, Aaron Johnson, Westin Johnson, Jackson Smith, and Scott Dettmer. Honorary pallbearers are Gary Morris, David Ramsey, Calvin Frazier, Bryce Minner, Gene VanCleave, and Greg Johnson.

Memorials may be made in Bill's honor to Trinity Baptist Church, 702 Church Street, Benton, Arkansas 72015.

Bill Wilson's legacy of love and faith will live on through his family and friends, who are grateful for the time they shared with him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  Online guestbook:  www.SmithFamilyCares.com.