Billy J Connell, 55 of Hardin, KY passed away Sunday, August 20, 2023 at Marshall County Hospital, in Benton, KY.
He is survived by his life partner and companion, Bryan Lofton of Hardin, KY.
Born November 13, 1967 in Bremerton, WA, he was the son of the late Billy E. Connell of Tifton, GA and Judy Louise (Miller) Wilson, husband Bob of Hardin, KY. In addition to his father, Billy was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Walton Smith, Jr. of Hardin, KY, originally from Bremerton, WA, and his grandmother Louise Harbin Smith of Tifton, GA.
Billy is survived by his mother, Judy Louise Wilson (Bob) of Hardin, KY; siblings, Tammy Minor (Damon), Vicki Cerv (Charlie), and Tracy Smith (Kevin), all of Bremerton, WA, Justin Connell (Faith) of Tifton, GA and Jason Connell of Forsyth, GA. Also surviving are his aunt, Marlene Kirkland (Butch) of Piedmont, AL; cousins Toni M. Adams (Bill) of Rome, GA and Amanda E. Harbin of Monticello, GA; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.
Billy was a devoted partner, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He valued time spent with those he loved and was always ready to lend a hand to family or friends. Billy was someone many found to be a reliable confidant, willing to share one’s daily struggles and thoughts. He always enjoyed babysitting his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews over the years. He also loved to dance, was the center of any party, and his energy was infectious.
Billy especially cherished his times in Panama City, Florida with his Aunt Marlene and Uncle Butch. Another top destination was Rome, GA, where his cousin Toni Adams and family provided many great times and memories. His years spent in the Carbondale and southern Illinois area were with friends that felt like family. During that season in his life, he spent a lot of time enjoying cookouts, camping, and dancing with friends. Being originally from Washington state, Billy enjoyed watching football and was a loyal Seattle Seahawks fan.
Family and friends are invited to gather and share fond memories of Billy’s life. Visitation will be held at Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home, 713 S. 4th St., Murray, KY, on Saturday, August 26, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, August 27, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a graveside service to follow at 1:00 p.m., at Wadesboro Cemetery in Hardin, KY.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is privileged to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Connell. Please share your messages of condolence with the family by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.