Billy Thorn Lovelace

Billy Thorn Lovelace, 89, passed on February 8, 2022, at his home with member of his family by his side after brief but harsh battle with cancer.

Billy willy be deeply missed by his loving wife of 64 years, Laura Lantrip Lovelace, daughters Lisa Pomeranz and husband Mike of Collierville, Tennessee, Stephanie McAnnally and husband Kelly of Southaven, Mississippi and son , Robert (Bobby) of Canton, Mississippi; eight grandchildren, Stuart and Drew Pomeranz, Bryan and Brett Lovelace, Katie McAnally, Will McAnally, Miles Grey McAnally, and Reed McAnally and four great grandchildren: Axel and Bo Pomeranz, Tate Pomeranz, and Davis Lovelace.

He was born in the Thorn Community, Chickasaw County, Mississippi, February 25, 1932.

He was a graduate of Vardaman High School, Vardaman, Mississippi. After graduation, he and his best friend, Bryan Scarbrough enlisted in the United States Navy during the Korean War. They traveled by train to San Diego, California for Naval Training. He served our nation for four years and was honorably discharged in 1954.

He then attended Mississippi State University and Memphis State University using G.I. Bill benefits.

After college he joined Armco Metal Products in Memphis, Tennessee and later became the Plant Superintendent. After living in Whitehaven, Tennessee for several years, Bill and family moved to Greenville, Mississippi where he served as Plant Foreman and later as President of Caldwell Culvert Company until his retirement.

His career related activities included: Board member, National Corrugated Steel Pipe Association and also as Chairman. Board member of statewide Methodist Foundation and Board member of Mississippi Manufactures Association.

His Civic and Church Activities: Board member Greenville Rotary Club, Chairman Greenville Airport Commission, and Chairman of Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce. Bill served and was a loyal member in many capacities in the United Methodist Church of Greenville, Mississippi.

Several years after his retirement, he and wife Laura moved to Olive Branch, Mississippi. They had many enjoyable times traveling between their children and grandchildren’s home for get-to-gathers or watching the grandchildren in sports or school activities.

Bill was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. He never failed to be a quick wit when the occasion called for it. He was treasured and loved by all who knew him or knew of him.      

The family will receive friends on Friday, February 11, 2022, at First United Methodist Church of Vardaman from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM. The funeral service celebrating his life will take place on Friday, February 11, 2022, at 2:00 PM in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church of Vardaman with Rev. Will Dowling and Rev. Stephen Sparks officiating.

Mike Pomeranz, Kelly McAnally, Drew Pomeranz, Bryan Lovelace, Brett Lovelace, Will McAnally, Steve Barnett, Jack Stewart, and Mark Lovelace will carry him to res in Hillcrest Cemetery.

Harry Day, Charlie Shoaf, James Eric Blissard, Charlie Davis, and Steve Osso will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Memorial may be made to Vardaman United Methodist Church: 32 CR 452 Vardaman, MS 38878.

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Lovelace family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.