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Billy Walker Obituary
Walker was killed along with his wife and two of his band members when a van they were riding in ran off Interstate 65 south of Montgomery and overturned, state troopers said.
Killed in the wreck were Bettie Walker, 61; and Charles Lilly Jr. 44, both of Hendersonville, Tenn., and Daniel Patton Sr., 40, of Hermitage, Tenn.
Walker's grandson, Joshua Brooks, 21, also of Hendersonville, was injured in the accident. He remains in critical condition at an Alabama hospital, officials said.
The group was on their way back to the Nashville area after performing at a show near Gulf Shores, according to Tom Bowers, manager of the Hendersonville Funeral Home.
Bowers said family members have contacted the funeral home, which will be conducting services for the Walkers.
According to the Opry's Web site, Billy Walker was born in Ralls, Texas, and built an early career as the "Traveling Texan, the Masked Singer of Country Songs" and later shared the stage with Elvis Presley.
Walker joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1960.
Copyright © 2006 The Associated Press
441 Entries
Ann from england
January 4, 2025
Watch him on family reunion. A great guy and singer rest in peace now bìlly such a great loss
sheryl whiybey
August 16, 2024
Billy and Bettie were two fine people. It is my honor to have been able to know both of them.I still miss them. Sheryl Husband Whitbey
Norma Jean Burrage
May 5, 2024
I just found he passed , he became a good friend to my older brother years ago after a show in Bailey's Crossroads Moose Lodge. My brother visited him a lot in Tennessee. I have a beautifully signed album of his he gave me back on New Years 1974 while I was pregnant with my son. Love him dearly may him and his wife Betty and band members be in eternal peace.
Brenda Riley
January 29, 2024
My moms favorite singer
How you can show support
Vern Roberts
November 28, 2023
When I was stationed at Sheppard AFB, near Wichita Falls, TX, I met Billy quite by accident. I was hitch hiking to Horseshoe Lake to listen to him play and by chance he picked me up and gave me a ride in his new Buick he had at that time. Hi drummer, Harpo Baker was also stationed there, so i had a ride back to base after the show. I truly enjoyed the short amount of time I got to visit with him.
peter polet
January 22, 2021
Watched a clip of Billy on RFD country reunion. Brought back memories driving my rig all night listening to his songs keeping me company. Great music from a Great country Gentleman Singer.
R/L
June 13, 2020
Mr. Walker, we'll see you on the other side of the Brazos. Thanks for the memories.
jay Kennedy
July 28, 2018
thank you Mr. Walker for the great songs over the years we miss you jay kennedy
kenneth king
July 11, 2018
Country music has lost soo many of the greats and it will never be the same due to the lose of Billy Walker ..Who can fill their boots?
Betty Joe Gentry
May 8, 2018
God Bless You, Mr. Walker. You've run your race and can rest now. I really enjoyed the talks we had when I would come to your home in Hendersonville with Deana from college. I always learned something from those chats. I will never forget that Saturday night in May, 1971 when you let me sit on the musicians bench on the Ryman stage during the Opry. Plus... going to church with you the next morning. You didn't have to do any of it; but you really made this Chicago kid feel 10 feet tall imagining all the great singers who had performed on that stage thru the years. Best of all, I was the priviledged guest of one of the greatest.
Sleep softly until that great getting-up morning.
simon smith
April 26, 2018
simon smith from England.
Steve Acton
May 20, 2017
Billy Walker was one of the greatest country singers I ever heard sing I love his music
April 21, 2017
Russ & Bonnie Litzinger America has lost one of it's best. Bless the family as they deal with his passing.
December 11, 2016
Still listening Billy, Godspeed friend.
Elba Ness
October 10, 2016
he died too young such a great singer and I believe a great person, Seemed like he was kind to everyone. would loved to have met him and hear his singing in person.sure missed him on country family reunion.RIP
carol (Peak) Willming
May 29, 2016
I am really sorry I didnot find out that Billy was my late father's cousin. I would have liked to meet him. I grew up in Atchison, Ks.
Harry Simpson
May 21, 2016
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
donna harrison
May 21, 2016
Loved to hear him sing, loved all his music. Everytime I go through Waco I always cross that Brazos river
Michael Hammonds
January 29, 2016
Watching Billy Walker tribute on RFD-TV as I type. Wasn't aware of his connection with Hank Williams, Elvis Presley, & Red Foley (three of the greatest of all time). I live in Berea, Ky where Red Foley was born & lived. I had the privilege of meeting Billy in Tootsie's Orchid Lounge many years ago. He sat down at the table with Grant Turner, Al Ballinger, & myself. Neat memory as I watch this & realize he was a really good singer!
Marilyn Jones
January 29, 2016
My husband and I just finished watching Billy
Walker on Family Reunion/RFD TV. He was definately a wonderful singer.
dean hoes
September 2, 2015
Billy walker was unique and my condolences at this difficult time really enjoyed his music
bryce oglesby
April 7, 2015
"He was a special uncle."
Dena Wood
October 21, 2014
If you once live, you never die. You only leave us to wonder why. Sing in the halls and the angels will hush.
Michael Johnson
July 26, 2014
As I sit here today, visiting my son in Lubbock, TX, I affectionately recall Mr. Billy Walker. I particularly remember doing oil painting artwork in my folk's dining room back in the 60's, while listening to Billy's epic album: "Cross the Brazos at Waco." I'd sung and memorized every song on that album, reveling in the melodies and the mesmerizing lyrics. The instrumental accompaniment was without equal. You'd have thought that after 20 or 30 times in re-play that I'd have heard enough. Not so. Billy Walker became part of my life that summer.....and remains so even as we hope to rejoin him (and family) in God's time. "Ride hard and you made it by dawn......."
Reg Cochran
June 13, 2014
Had the pleasure of seeing Billy on stage in Stuttgart, Germany in the mid 60's. He and his band put on a wonderful show there for the military. Greatly missed!! Reg Cochran Hardwick, Vt.
mollie wick
June 7, 2014
You are truly missed billy.
Col.Robert HANGER
May 24, 2014
Billy was a great country music entertainer, & will be sadly missed by all his fans & friends. My condolences to the family too.
PAUL KNECHT
May 21, 2014
Miss You Billy , And our breakfasts together, in Tn.
Sincerely, Paul Knecht, Orlando, Fl
janice bush
May 14, 2014
Well miss a great Singer. I was at his last show in Foley, al.and thoroughly enjoyed it. My heart dropped the next day when I heard the news. Got to meet him and his wife and band. Just down home people. You all will be missed. Our sympathy to the family. We'll never forget you, your one of the best. RIP
Janice Rawlins
January 25, 2014
I hope he is at peace in heaven, him and his wife and band members, so sad to hear this news but a better place was waiting for him in stead, so rest dear friend and peace be with you always. My papaw was a fan of Billy, now they can be together in heaven, God knows when to take people home, he knows about our hearts and what is best for all, and sometimes we don't understand why but he will be in heaven a place where no one dies.
Roy Sours
August 10, 2011
I had the privilege of playing on the same shows with Billy back in the 80's.
I used to use his bass players amp so
we didn't have to move equipment around
during the show. Billy was a consummate
performer and a true Christian as was
his dear wife. I'm writing a book about my musical career and including
conversations with Billy in it.
I heard that he had died but did not
know when or how. He always closed the show with "This time you gave me a
mountain". What he gave me were some
great memories.
Les Troglin
August 10, 2011
It was my privilege to know Billy and Bettie. I considered them to be great friends. Memories such as our evenings backstage at the Grand Old Opry; our wonderful dinners where we shared memories of the past. We both shared and treasured our relationship with the Lord. Truly they both will be missed, but I look forward to seeing them once again at our great reunion in heaven.
Gertrude Houchens
February 4, 2011
I was a fan of Billy Walker and his music. He had a very smooth voice that was pleasant to listen to. Country Music has suffered a great loss and so has the Grand Old Opry. May God bless him in Heaven.
January 29, 2011
January 28, 2011 During Fan Fair several years ago Billy spoke at the Gospel Session at the Grand Ole Opry on a Wednesday evening. He actually gave us the Good News and I made a committment to my Lord and Savior. Another time in Commerce, GA I had the opportunity to tell Billy this and he was thrilled that I told him and that I made the committment. He thanked me for telling him. I thank him for his presentation and the opportunity.
Joan Holder (Cincinnati, OH)
Nola Reeves
November 10, 2010
My husband passed away four months before our 52nd anniversary. It has been necessary for me to move from our home of 30 years. Anyhow, while sorting through a box, I came across pictures we took of and with Billy and Bettie when he performed at the Cortland Country Music Park, Cortland NY. He would say a prayer for us before he went on stage. His strong hands made you feel his love of God and his ministry. What a wonderful man and Bettie was a wonderful lady. Now, in my belief, Ron is visiting with Billy and Bettie and waiting for me to arrive, in time.
wayne howell
May 4, 2010
i got to meet billy in april 1989 backstage at the opry he so kind to me, i took pictures with him, he was a great country singer i play his music on my radio show
( Coqueese ) Dixon
March 7, 2010
Although I was never privileged to meet Billy in person, You somehow feel cose to him and others in the country music family. I still can't believe his is gone from us. May God Bless the families of the ones that that were taken. Sincerely
Rudy Cypret
February 26, 2010
I saw Billy on Country Family Reunion and the thing I remembered was that Billy spoke of GOD in a statement he made. Billy is one of the true great country singers who had to rely totally on his beautiful voice without all the musical and voice inhancements. I will miss Billy's singing and presence. Billy is with the LORD grinning big as ever, hand in hand with his wonderful Bettie.
Craig Wallin
December 4, 2009
A true icon of Country Music. May Billy and Bettie Rest In Peace. You are missed very much.
oscar triplett
October 24, 2009
may you rest in peace
Martha Lyell
August 9, 2009
Billy Walker was a wonderful entertainer and he will be missed by all of his country music fans. Billy was as handsome as he was talented,. God Bless all of you, and God Bless you in Heaven Billy.
Zarro Valentino
March 13, 2009
Billy Walker and I 'zarro' The Masked Rocker visited and talked together at the Earnest Tubb record shop. Billy told me all about when he use to wear a mask as I do. We had a long wonderful time together just shortly before his death. Billy was extremely kind and nice to me. I have seen Billy many times on the Grand Ole Opry and a few times on the street. An incredeble child of God. I liked him greatly.
Marcus (Buck) Atwell
January 8, 2009
It is so hard to say goodby to a good friend from many years ago
Marcus (Buck) Atwell
January 8, 2009
Marcus T. (Buck) Atwell
Billy and I worked together in Clovis N. M. when we were
teen - agers.hHe will be sorely missed.
San Jose Ca.
Nola Reeves
December 27, 2008
It's still so difficult realizing that Billy and Bettie are gone. So many times I think, maybe I should call Bettie and see what's happening in Nashville. Then I remember, she won't be there to answer the phone. I also feel sad for the other families who were just getting started with their families. God must have a plan for all of them. We miss you so much!
Bill Histed
December 27, 2008
I got a job as a kid announcer in high school at WBCO-AM in Bucyrus, Ohio. About everyone in the county listened to the station.
In the afternoons, we had "The Afternoon Country Sound" with DJ Charlie Brown.
This was the first I had heard Billy Walker's music. What struck me was the clear quality of his voice. To me, his voice was a clear as crystal.
In the following years, when I head Billy Walker on country radio, you didn't need to tell me twice who it was. While he was well-known, I think he clearly was one of the top talents ever in country music.
Even Gary Stewart, who met a tragic end, wrote some occasional music that Billy sang.
The death of the Walkers and the two music team members was truly a national loss. I was stunned.
In our society today, we don't honor our musicians and writers as we should.
This remembrance is my way of honoring this great musician.
BRENDA K. PERRY
November 20, 2008
I will cherish the honor of singing "RINGGOLD GEORGIA" with BILLY WALKER and ; the honor of preforming our great duet on the"GRANDE OLE OPRY" you are in my prayers always. BRENDA KAYE PERRY.
Jim (Buck) Sharpe
August 8, 2008
Ladies, I'm sure sorry to read about this. Ya'll are in my thoughts so often. Deana, Julie and Tina, if you get a chance, you might give me a call 817-578-8860
July 13, 2008
A little more than 2 years now and still feels like it was only yesterday. We will never stop loving you. Miss you so much. How we wish you were still here. We will always love you - Scott and Ginnie Droz, Lady Lake, Florida
alice molett
February 25, 2008
please accept my deepest sympathies, a man of faith, and a man of song
Grady Smith
October 30, 2007
Mr walker I first heard Charlies shoes when I was a child back in the early sixties, well fast forward to 1995 to Columbus AFB MS. where my neighbor had an old International 4wd truck. I coveted my neighbors truck and ding donged him till he finally sold it to me, well now its 2007 and about $12000, and untold busted knuckles I still own it. I call it Charlie's Shoes.
May 21, 2007
Billy, Bettie, Charlie, and Danny, one year and it still hurts like it happened today. Gone, but never, ever, ever forgotten. Never. We still are in bad need of our Billy Walker/Danny Patton fixes, and, can't have them ever again. Yes, you gave us a mountain. May you rest forever in peace on that mountain knowing how much we love you all, A Million and One, A Million and Two, and three, and...forever -- Scott and Ginnie Droz, Lady Lake, Florida
steve jarrell
May 19, 2007
I will miss this great entertainer. He had such a great voice.
God bless you all.
Danehy Carson
March 20, 2007
Dear Walker Family ,
One of the greatest voices in
music has been lost with
the tragic loss of Billy
I only saw Billy in person
one time when I got to
to speak to him just before
he performed a show at an
outdoor state park in
Virginia , he took the
time to make me feel
very appreciated as a fan
I will never forget how
humble and friendly he was
He was one of my all time
favorites and I myself am
a musician and have learned
to play many of his songs .
My sympathy goes out to
his family and the families
of the rest of the ones lost
in this tragic accident .
Rest in peace Billy .
Danehy A. Carson
( Winston-Salem,N C. )
Annie Bonniville
February 14, 2007
Our
family has dvd's of the grand ole opry and billy is singing and talk's
a lot about the LORD we really enjoy watching him and the other
singers.
we hate to see them go but GOD has a plan for all of us ,he gave us 2
choices the streight and narrow road that will take us home to be with
our LORD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST,
or the wide road that leeds to destruction this is a place noone should
ever want to see because that old devil causes us enough trouble down
here on earth,
even tho they are gone now they will never be forgoten in our heart's.
GOD needed some new angel's in the choir so he took some of the best
earth had to offer.
so if we live true to 'GOD ' we will see our buddies again soon .
because it's not gonna be long until all GOD'S children are going home.
alway's remember there's only one life and it will soon be pasted what
we do for CHRIST is all that's gonna last. be sure and be ready don't
wait to late to late is to late you will never get another chance after
he call's your name.
I hope to see all my friend's in heaven one day.
From what I've heard billy say on our dvd's he will be there to.
It will be a great time when we all get together in heaven one day
there'll be no more parting anymore
With all our LOVE to Billy,his Wife
and the other's family's. We Love you all GOD BLESS ALWAY'S Your
Friend's
Scott Droz
January 16, 2007
Eight months and still can't believe the four of you are really gone. Never, ever forgotten. Know that you can look down on all the things we are doing to keep your precious memories alive and believe you would approve. Miss you all so much every day that passes by and will always love you. What we would give to be able to relive last May 21, 2006, in Foley, Alabama, with you all again. Still in bad need of our Billy Walker/Danny Patton fixes. Yes, you gave us a mountain. May you rest forever on that mountain. We will always love you. Scott and Ginnie Droz -- Lady Lake, Florida
Angel Perren
September 20, 2006
GOD'S WILL dear child, GOD'S WILL.
Rest peacefully in the arms of our
Heavenly FATHER.
JAMES JENKINS
August 20, 2006
I MET BILLY WALKER JULY 8 2000 AT ERNEST TUBB RECORD SHOP IN FT. WORTH TX. HE WAS VERY EASY TO TALK WITH. I HAVE PICTURES OF BILLY WITH ELMER LAURANCE,TOMMY HUGHES, BRENDA THOMPSON & THE LATE CHARLIE TUCKER.
MY PRAYERS ARE WITH THE WALKER FAMILY, ALSO THE OTHER FAMILYS THAT LOST THERE LOVE ONES IN THAT TRAGEDY. MAY GOD BLESS.
Hershel Stollings
August 16, 2006
Our prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. They will be greatly missed.
Ann & Richard Ogas
August 16, 2006
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
Jodi Scott
July 26, 2006
What a terrible tragedy, but also a blessing, in that Billy and Bettie became angels together. One would not be without the other. God Bless you and your family.
JACK KANE
July 25, 2006
i was so sad ot hear of billy's death and his wife,may GOD rest their souls.He had many fans here in Ireland.Rest in peace billy.
JACK KANE, IRELAND.
Stan Bennett
July 3, 2006
Thanks for "Crossing the Brazos at Waco"
MSA Steel Guitars
Alex Hale
June 22, 2006
Our prayers go out to Billy,Bettie,Charlie, Danny, Billy's grandson and the family of each.This is a terrible loss of life and it is hard to understand why it happened.Strong faith will help everyone in these sad times.
Hank Williams sang in a song "Memorie is one gift of God that death cannot destroy".
May these folks rest in peace.
Everett Rand
June 17, 2006
Dear father, We need more men and women like Billy and Betty Walker in America. They served you well. I hope they are singing with Gene Autry, Roy Rogers Johnny Chase and many more like them. Give them all a hug for me. Everett
Bobby Lindsay
June 17, 2006
Billy's music and talent have long been an inspiration to me and other musicians like me. My condolences to his family and fans alike. He will be missed.
Jerry Gross
June 13, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Rita Hopper
June 12, 2006
I just heard recently of the passing of Billy Walker. I was stunned to hear of the accident and all of the losses. The only peace I find is that they went home together. I have always admired him as a performer and as a christian man. I will keep all the families in my prayers.
James Rockwell
June 9, 2006
My prayers are with the families of all those affected by this terrible loss may god hold you close.
Mike Webb
June 5, 2006
Many happy memories being on the show with Billy while working in Wilma Lee Coopers band on the Opry.My prayers to the family.
Jason Buchanan M.D.
June 5, 2006
A patient of mine continues to sing praises of Mr&Mrs. Walkers life and testimony through music. After seeing her today I came on here to see what this was all about. I'm a fan of country and bluegrass music but it seems i've missed out on a wonderful couple. God bless the family and friends and may your pain be lessened by the words in this guestbook.
DIANNE BAKER
June 4, 2006
I HAVE ALWAYS LOVE AND ADMIRED MR. BILLY WALKER. ALSO I AM A COUNTRY MUSIC SINGER AND HELLO TO ALL MY FRIENDS GOD BLESS YOU . SINCERLY DIANNE BAKER
Bill Kase
June 3, 2006
Sorry to hear this, God Bless His Family in their sorrow.We will all miss Billy. Bill Kase,Pennsylvania.
BYRON CUMMINGS
June 3, 2006
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
DOROTHY CUMMINGS
June 3, 2006
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Dan Electricbanjoman
June 2, 2006
Dear Billy ,Cross the Brazos & Waco was one of my Favorite songs , But my favorite of your was Charlies Shoes!
You were a very Nice man
God Bless you, Rest in heaven where you can sing to the Lord, I know he`ll love it as we have.
Dan & Miss Kitty
Richard White
June 2, 2006
I thought the world of Billy Walker and the things that Bettie did for traditional country music were above and beyond with the Golden Voice Awards. God bless the friends and family of these and also of Charles Lily and also of Danny Patton. Billy Walker will never be forgotten.
Frieda Pressler
May 31, 2006
A great loss to country music. He will be missed. But his music will play on. Thoughts and prayers go out to the family. May Charlie and Bette rest in peace and go in the hands of our Lord.
Marshall Brannon
May 31, 2006
My wife and I saw Billy Walker in concert in Mechanicsville, Virginia several years ago. We had always been fans but had never seen him in person, even during two trips to the Grand Ole Opry. He was fabulous. He genuinely seemed to enjoy every second of his own performance; audiences appreciate this trait in a performer! He could still sing like an angel and had a tremendous voice range. It is hard to believe that, even at that time, he was more than 70 years old.
Billy Walker is a legend and will be sorely missed by all of us who appreciate good music, country or otherwise.
TUFFY(Tater) Thompson
May 31, 2006
SAD TO HEAR ABOUT BILLY WALKER, HIS WIFE & FRIENDS. PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY & FRIENDS IN THEIR LOSS. I TOO WAS A LISTENER OF BILLY"S MUSIC. I HAVE A COLLECTION OF HIS MUSIC. WELL MY FRIENDS BILLY HAS TRULY WALKED IN CHARLIES SHOES NOW .HE , HIS WIFE AN FRIENDS NOW WALK WITH FLOATING WINGS SIDE BY SIDE WITH A GLIDE IN HEAVEN WITH OUR LORD . MY FRIENDS YOU WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN YOU LIVE IN OUR HEARTS AN YOUR MUSIC CARRIES ON IN OUR LIVES BLESS YOU ALL!! My Deepest Sympathy,
TUFFY
Charles Reese
May 30, 2006
Legends live forever in our hearts.
Billy Holcomb
May 30, 2006
Billy Walker has always been one of my favorite people, and he helped me thru the years numerous times.
Such a wonderful man, and fabulous singer.
Billy will always be a giant among
the country, and Gospel music family.
I will miss him.Billy Holcomb Denison, Texas
Rich Garratt
May 30, 2006
One can only ask the question....Why? It is what it is, and as in the rest of the world....there is much sorrow. This is part of it.
THINGS CHANGE
Jimmy Case
May 30, 2006
It was always a pleasure to work with Billy over the years. He was a true Texas gentleman and a class act in country music. There is another big void on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry that can never be filled.
sally moser
May 30, 2006
billy you will be singing with the best now.
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