William Dee "Billy" Counts

William "Billy" Dee Counts

Billy was born in Hollywood, MS, the middle sibling of five children. In true middle child form, Billy would not only tell you the way it was but also served as a steady anchor to his family. He selflessly gave much of his adult life to care for his ailing mother, foregoing the typical path of higher education and time spent with friends. His steadfast care of his mother allowed her to be more comfortable and to be able to stay home with family. After the passing of his mother, Billy moved to Southaven, MS and later to Memphis, TN where he continued his pursuit of caring for others, working at Baptist Hospital until he retired. He was a Christian man who read his Bible and devotionals. He prayed for everyone.

Billy enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He loved children and animals and they liked him. He loved to eat breakfast, hamburgers, fries and especially chocolate milkshakes. He loved to go shopping with family and watch them make purchases. Billy never met a stranger; he was a good friend and loved others unconditionally. His proudest moments hinged, not on his own endeavors, but on his family's happiness, watching them travel and succeed in life.

Billy would want to be remembered as being independent and loved for who he was. Anyone who knew Billy has a funny story, or ten, they could tell about him. His quirky, corny jokes were so abundant that his niece and nephews coined them "Uncle Billyisms". The joy and unconditional care he brought his family were endless. For that, he will not be forgotten.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Roy Counts, a brother, Richmond Counts, and a sister, Marie Millsaps.

He leaves behind one sister, Ann Hollingsworth (Jim) of Hernando, MS and one brother, Bobby Counts (Pat) of Anderson, SC. , along with a host of nieces and nephews.