Billy Conyers

Billy Burks Conyers

Billy Burks Conyers, 77, of Fishersville, Virginia, died peacefully surrounded by family and friends, on Tuesday, December 22, 2009, at 5:05 p.m. after a long battle with leukemia.

He was born on October 24, 1932, in Amherst County, Virginia.

Billy was a 1951 graduate of Wilson Memorial High School in Fishersville, Virginia, where he was a star athlete and record breaker in several sports. He began his working career beside his father, T.H. Conyers, at Moore Brothers Company and then worked at General Electric. He was last employed by Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center from which he retired in 1995.

Billy was an active member of Tinkling Spring Presbyterian Church in Fishersville for many years, serving on various committees and in different capacities. He was also active in the community throughout the years serving as a coach for his sons' various sports teams, member of the Fishersville Ruritans and the Preston L. Yancey Volunteer Fire Department. Through his dedication to the Lord, he used his gifts for planning and completing projects and gathering people together for the good of those less fortunate. His larger-than-life presence was felt by all who knew him; his dedication, drive and compassion will be sorely missed by those who love him.

He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Whitehead Conyers of Fishersville; four sons and daughters-in-law, Scott and Lynn Conyers of Lyndhurst, Dann and Vicky Conyers, Doug and Betsy Conyers, and Neal and Chris Conyers, all of Fishersville; a sister and brother-in law, Betty Jo and Ben Caldwell of Staunton; a sister-in-law, Kathryn Kelsey (Tom) of Ivy; seven grandchildren, Heath Conyers (Andrea) of Sterling; Melissa Lloyd (Tommy) of Waynesboro, Alexis Clark (Jake) of Fairfield, Taylor, Josh, Sarah and Caleb Conyers of Fishersville; and a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, T.H. and Thelma Burks Conyers; son, Jon Conyers; stepson, Withers Andrews; and stepdaughter, Melissa Andrews Pearson.

A graveside service will be held 1 p.m. Monday, December 28, 2009, at Tinkling Spring Presbyterian Church Cemetery, followed by a Memorial service at 1:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary, with the Reverend Dr. Jason Whitener officiating.

The family will receive friends from 4 until 6 p.m. Sunday, December 27, 2009, at the Waynesboro Chapel of Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes, 618 West Main Street.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Tinkling Spring Presbyterian Church Building Fund, 30 Tinkling Spring Drive, Fishersville, VA 22939; The HOPE Cancer Center, 78 Medical Center Drive, Fishersville, VA 22939; or AMC Hospice of the Shenandoah, 64 Sports Medicine Drive, Fishersville, VA 22939.

Billy Conyers left a large hole in this world by his passing. He was a great man in many ways, from his devotion to his beloved farm, cottage, and camp and his passion for hunting and fishing to his love of life, family and friends. He will be missed. His passing will forever leave an indelible mark on our hearts.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes & Crematory.

Friends and relatives may send flowers and condolences and share memories with the family at www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com.


This obituary was originally published in the News Virginian.