Billy Kimbro

Billy Kimbro, age 96, of Florala, Alabama, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026. Born on November 5, 1929, in Florala, Alabama, he was the son of the late Oscar Kimbro and Emma Mason Kimbro. Billy was a lifelong resident of the tri-city area and a man whose life was rooted deeply in faith, family, and hard work.

From an early age, Billy learned the value of a hard day’s labor while working on the family farm. Those early years as a young boy and later as a young man instilled in him a strong sense of integrity and character that never left him. Though his professional path would later take him into construction and public service, he never lost his farming roots. Even long after retirement, Billy could be found tending his garden, a labor of love. He always planted far more than he and his family could ever use, ensuring that neighbors and friends could share in the harvest. It was simply who he was a man who believed in loving his neighbor as himself.

As he grew older and began raising a family, Billy went to work for Buffalo Construction in Florala, where he worked as a carpenter for many years. His work ethic was well known throughout the community. On weekends, he continued serving others, painting houses, repairing plumbing, handling electrical work, roofing homes, and meeting whatever need arose. If someone in Florala had a problem, Billy was often the first person they called. He even roofed houses well into his 80s, a testament to his strength and determination. His work was more than a job; it was a ministry of service to the community he loved.

After Buffalo Construction closed, Billy remained active, eventually working with the Department of Transportation. He later served at the rest area in Florala, a position perfectly suited to his warm and welcoming nature. Billy never met a stranger. He knew everyone and took genuine interest in their lives. He worked there until his retirement in 1994.

In retirement, he devoted himself to gardening and to enjoying gospel singings throughout the area. If there was a gospel event anywhere nearby, you could count on Billy being there. His faith was central to his life. He served his church as a deacon and Sunday school teacher, not only teaching Scripture but living it daily through his actions, his generosity, and his commitment to others.

Billy was preceded in death by his wife, Sue Kimbro; his parents, Oscar and Emma Kimbro; and other beloved family members.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanette Hartzog Kimbro; his sons, Billy Bo Kimbro (Annie) and Jamie Kimbro (Lesley); his daughter, Shirley Scruggs; his stepson, Marty Hartzog (Teresa); and his stepdaughter, Susan Bottoms (Frank). He is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. To them, he was lovingly known as “Paw Paw,” a name he cherished deeply.

Billy’s legacy is one of service, faith, generosity, and love for his community. His hands built homes, but his heart built relationships that will endure for generations.

Funeral services will be Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Evans Funeral Home with Billy Pickron officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow in Paxton Cemetery.

Billy Kimbro lived a life well rooted in faith and hard work that blessed an entire community. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.