B. C. Haley

B. C. HALEY, 91

KILBOURNE, LOUISIANA

Cox Funeral Home

Oak Grove, Louisiana

KILBOURNE, LA - Our beloved husband, daddy, Papaw, uncle, brother, and friend, B.C. Haley, age 91, of Kilbourne, Louisiana, peacefully passed into eternity, surrounded by his loving family, on August 8, 2025. He was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering faith that will forever be cherished by all who knew him.

Born on December 11, 1933, in Kilbourne, Louisiana, B.C. was lovingly welcomed by his parents, Sandy and Gladys Haley, and his older brother, William "Sonny" Haley. He was born at the very homesite where he would one day peacefully pass-a full-circle journey rooted in the place he always called home. As he grew, B.C. was joined by his younger brothers-Frank, Marvin, and Donald-and surrounded by the love of his older half-sisters: Merced (Green), Maxine (Philley), Exced (Calhoun), and Sybil (Helms). Together, they formed an unbreakable bond-a bond B.C. cherished deeply throughout his life.

B.C. met the love of his life, Doris Murphy, at a friend's party, and from the moment he saw her, he knew she was the one. He often smiled while retelling the story of seeing Doris across the room and telling his mother, "Momma, I met the girl I'm gonna marry." B.C. and Doris were united in marriage on August 22, 1953. Their love story, built on faith, grace, and unwavering commitment, became a beacon of strength and devotion that lasted over seven decades. With Christ at the center of their union, they navigated life's joys and trials hand in hand.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, B.C. served from 1953 to 1955, followed by four years in the reserves. After boot camp with his brother Sonny, B.C. was stationed in South Korea, where he volunteered to serve as the camp cook in exchange for a warm place to sleep. He spoke with pride of his military service, often reflecting on the life lessons and personal growth it brought

him.

Upon returning home, B.C. and Doris began their life together as sharecroppers on the Old Franklin Place just outside Kilbourne. Their dedication was evident in everything they did, especially in their work side by side. B.C. took great pride in farming, particularly in growing sweet potatoes, the crop he would later retire on in 1999. His fields reflected his tireless work

ethic, and his reputation as a hard worker was known throughout the community. For many years, he and his family also cared for the Kilbourne Cemetery before passing on the responsibility to his brother and nephew.

Outside of farming, B.C. was a talented woodworker. With a steady hand and an eye for detail, he could build just about anything-from constructing an entire home based on a photo to crafting furniture pieces that became family heirlooms. His handiwork could be found in the homes of his loved ones, including those he helped build for his daughters, Kathy and Teresa.

Whether it was custom cabinets, a gun cabinet, a China hutch, bedroom suites, a built-in bookcase, a pulpit, or a remembrance table, B.C.'s craftsmanship carried both function and love.

B.C.'s devotion to his faith was unwavering. Over the years, he served as Head Deacon, treasurer, teacher, and in many other roles at First Baptist Church of Kilbourne. He was always willing to minister when needed, often stepping in to proclaim the message of God. His dedication to the Lord even led him to offer the family's "Tater Shed" as a gathering place for Cowboy Church, providing a space for others to worship and grow in faith-a place where many came to know the Lord for the first time. Even when his health no longer allowed him to attend services in person, B.C. and Doris remained faithful, listening together to weekly recorded sermons and continuing their spiritual walk. For his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, memories of sitting beside him for Bible readings and worshiping together as a family remain among their most treasured.

B.C. was a true friend to all. His genuine kindness, warm sense of humor, and willingness to listen left an indelible mark on everyone he met. He never judged-always ready with a word of encouragement or a reminder of God's grace. His door was always open, whether for a visit, a prayer, or heartfelt advice. B.C. had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued.

Of all the roles B.C. held in life, none were more important to him than that of husband, father, and Papaw. His daughters, Teresa (Ronnie) Kellum and Kathy (James "Butter") Chavers, were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His joy was unmistakable when surrounded by family, whether at home in

Kilbourne or visiting loved ones in Wyoming.

B.C. is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 72 years, Doris; his daughters, Teresa (Ronnie) Kellum and Kathy (James "Butter") Chavers; grandsons, Chris (Jill) Kellum and Chad Chavers; granddaughters, Shona Gooding and Tisha Kellum; great-grandsons, Rylan, Landen, Morgan Kellum, Caleb Gooding, and Gus Simmons; great-granddaughters, Kenzy (Derrick) Winn and Bailee Gooding; his brother, Marvin Haley; his longtime special brother, Floyd McDermott; and numerous nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Sandy and Gladys Haley; his brothers, William "Sonny," Frank, and Donald; half-siblings Merced (Lamar) Green, Maxine (Mutt) Philley, Exced (Hubert) Calhoun, Sybil (J.E.) Helms, and Sandy Jr., his sister-in-law, Gwen Haley, as well as several beloved nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A viewing will be held at First Baptist Church, located at 415 Center Street, Kilbourne, LA, on August 15, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will take place at the same location on August 16, at 2:00 p.m., officiated by Reverends Eddie Dupre, Kevin McLeod, and Ron Bray. Burial will follow at Kilbourne Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Rylan, Landen, Morgan Kellum, Caleb Gooding, Gus Simmons, and Marty Haley. Honorary pallbearers include Chris Kellum, Chad Chavers, and the deacons of First Baptist Church of Kilbourne.

In this time of loss, we hold onto the love and memories B.C. gave us. Though he will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing that his was a life of unwavering faith, humility, love, and service. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the blessing of knowing him.