Billy Brutus Harrelson

Billy Brutus Harrelson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great‑grandfather, and faithful servant of the Lord, was born on November 19, 1931, to Brutus Billy and Gladys Bryant Harrelson. From the beginning, Billy’s life was marked by devotion—to his family, his faith, and his community.

A proud graduate of Mullins High School in 1951, Billy went on to build a life defined by hard work, integrity, and service. He shared 55 beautiful years of marriage with the love of his life, Susannah Martin Harrelson, until she was called home to be with the Lord in 2007. Together, they raised two sons whom Billy loved deeply and guided faithfully: Steven Billy Harrelson (Lynn Norwood) of Hartsville, SC, and Martin Douglas “Marty” Harrelson (Pam McGee) of Darlington, SC.

Billy’s greatest joy was his family. He was a proud grandfather to Stephanie (Andy) Blankenship, Elizabeth (Tommy) Brunson, Caroline Harrelson, and Meredith Harrelson, and a devoted great‑grandfather to Beaux Blankenship, Savanna Blankenship, and Emery Brunson, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Later in life, Billy was blessed again with love, sharing 10 wonderful years of marriage with Shirley Rogers McDonald Harrelson, until she too went to be with the Lord in 2019. He cherished his stepdaughter, Christy McDonald Berry, and his step‑grandchildren, Avery Berry and Kaylee Berry, all of Marion, SC.

Billy was preceded in death by his siblings: Audrey (Cliff) Batton, Irene (Billy Hoover) Harrelson, Dorolyn H. Moyle, and Larry “Bryant” Harrelson.

Billy retired from DuPont of Florence after 28 years of dedicated service and proudly served 23 years in the National Guard. He was a Past Master of Masonic Lodge 161 in Mullins and a faithful member of Gapway Baptist Church since 1961, where he served as a deacon for more than five decades. Even in retirement, Billy continued to work hard, owning and operating a small engine shop for 24 years.

Most importantly, Billy lived his faith daily. He actively participated in the Christian Fellowship Program at nursing homes and assisted living facilities, always eager to share kindness, encouragement, and the love of Christ. Billy truly loved the Lord, and he loved people. His life was a quiet, steady testimony—one of humility, service, and unwavering faith—and he strove every day to live in a way that honored God and set an example for others.

Friends and family are invited to share a celebration for Billy’s life on Saturday. March 28, beginning at 10:00 A.M. with visitation in the Christian Life Center at Gapway Baptist Church. A homegoing service will follow at 11:00 A.M. there in the CLC building with the Reverend Stephen D. Bailey and Pastor Will Jones officiating. Mr. Harrelson will be laid to rest in Red Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery, under the direction of Cox-Collins Funeral Home. 

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Christy with Agape Hospice and the compassionate staff at English Meadows in Hartsville for their exceptional care, comfort, and love during Billy’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gapway Baptist Church,2305 South Highway 41, Mullins, SC 29574.

Billy’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the faith he shared, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.