Billy Joe Thrasher

Billy Joe Thrasher, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on January 23, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on July 11, 1944, in Hazen, Arkansas, Billy lived a life characterized by hard work, dedication, and a profound love for his family and community.

Following an honorable discharge from the United States Air Force, Billy continued to serve in the Reserves for over six years. His career was diverse and industrious; he worked in steel mills, served as a truck driver, and was a master plumber, exemplifying his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Billy’s personality was as vibrant as his life’s pursuits. He had a fondness for animals, often feeding the neighborhood's strays, including birds, cats, dogs, and squirrels. His unique sense of humor and lively spirit brought joy to those around him, characterized by a glint in his eye and a playful demeanor. In his quieter moments, Billy enjoyed reading Western novels and delving into genealogy, often visiting cemeteries for headstone rubbings as a way to connect with his family’s history. He also enjoyed listening to classic country music (the only music allowed in the home!) and watching bull riding. With a bit of persuasion, his first wife could urge him to go square dancing. Late night scary movies and drive-in scary movies were a few of the family past-times with his second wife. Target and skeet shooting provided special memories for he and his daughter, Dinah. Billy and his wife, Ann, enjoyed spending time together watching television and researching genealogy. 

Billy is survived by his daughters Dinah Rae Thielemann (John) of Roxana, Illinois; Babette "Babs" Chitty (Michael) of Albuquerque, New Mexico; Shaune Taylor (Robbie) of Scott, Arkansas; and Janet Thrasher-Harness of Cabot, Arkansas. His stepdaughter, Rita Haynes of Benton, Arkansas, and a loving group of grandchildren and great-grandchildren also carry on his legacy. The grandchildren include Jared Haynes (Carmen), Warren Sprague, Clarissa Thrasher (Chris), Samantha Lyons, Kasey Spaniak (Gary), Jeremy Taylor, Jordan Taylor (Sarah), Courtney Hernandez, Ashliegh Hernandez, Tara Hernandez, Emma Hernandez, Joseph Thielemann (Sarah), and Max Coyle (Arianna). His great-grandchildren, Abby, Katy, Callie, Aria, Anna, Kaiden, Ryan, Levi, Jenson, Beckett, Blaire, Brooks, Jeremiah, and Asher, will remember their "Papa" with love and fond memories. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Lois Evelyn Raborn of Carlisle, Arkansas, and several nieces, including Julia Campbell (Tim), Rita Green (Rodney), Veronica Raborn, and Rhonda Moore, as well as a host of family members and friends who deeply loved him and will miss him dearly.

Billy was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Ann Thrasher, and his second wife, Genevieve Thrasher. He was also predeceased by his stepson, Eddie Blue, and siblings, William Bedford Thrasher and Hazel Irene Ward.

Services honoring Billy Joe Thrasher will be held on February 1, 2025, at the Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas. Visitation will commence at 10:30 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:30 AM. Burial will take place at 1:00 PM at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander, Arkansas.

Billy's kind spirit, dedicated heart, and infectious laughter will continue to resonate within the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His presence will be profoundly missed, but his legacy will endure through the cherished memories held by his family and friends.

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