Billy Qualls passed from this life, on Dec. 16, 2023, in Sparta. Billy was 86 years old.
He was born Aug. 15, 1937, in Overton County, the first child of William Harrison Qualls and Willie Ethel McCulley Qualls.
Billy was a much-loved husband, daddy, “Pa,” brother, uncle, and brother-in-law. A proud McCulley and Bilbrey, he was a friend, a helping hand, and a supportive shoulder for many.
A man of many talents and gifts, Billy left his mark in the world through masonry. His hands laid the cornerstones for many homes and schools, and they stand, along with his family, as his legacy.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother; his brother, Thomas Gatewood Qualls; and his sister, Linda Qualls Steward.
Billy leaves behind the love of his life and wife of 67 years, Dora Mae Woody Qualls; daughters, Shelia Qualls Cockcroft (Jesse), of Dorchester, South Carolina, Kimberly Qualls Bodner (Steven), of Porto, Portugal; granddaughter, Chelsea Lauren Cates “CC” of Austin, Texas; and grandson, Jordan Gatewood Cockcroft “J-man,” of Dorchester, South Carolina.
Funeral service will be 1 p.m., Dec. 21, 2023, at Oak Lawn Funeral Home, with burial in Oak Lawn Cemetery. The family will welcome friends noon-1 p.m., Dec. 21, at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a cause dear to Billy’s heart - the restoration fund for the Bilbrey Family Cemetery. Donations can be sent to The Bilbrey Family Reunion at One Bank of Tennessee, 1477 W. Main St., Livingston, Tennessee 38570.
The family would like to convey a special word of thanks to the angels at Life Care Center of Sparta for their loving care and friendship.
Oak Lawn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
