Billy R. Blue

A celebration of life for Billy R. Blue, 72, of Anniston, will be held, Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 1:00pm at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Anniston. Interment will be in Edgemont Cemetery. A public viewing will be held on, Friday, October 31, 2025, from 3pm-7pm at the funeral home. Professional services entrusted to S.M. Goodson Funeral Home-Anniston. Mr. Billy Ray Blue, the son of Earl Blue, Sr. and Carrie Crook Blue, began his earthly journey on September 1, 1953, in Weaver, Alabama. Billy lived a rich life filled with passion, laughter, and a profound commitment to those he loved. Although Billy, fondly known as Blue, was a 1971 graduate of Calhoun County Training School, he forged lifelong friendships while spending time with the Cobb Avenue High School Alumni. An athlete at heart, he played basketball in high school and in local adult leagues, and developed a deep love for all sports. Blue was an avid Auburn fan and never missed an opportunity to cheer on his team through wins and losses. Blue retired from Regional Medical Center as a supervisor in the environmental services department with over 20 years of dedication and hard work. As the esteemed Esquire of the Thomas A. Williams Elks Lodge #1668 for over 20 years and a member of the James A. Kelly Council for 28 years where he held various positions, Blue truly understood the value of community and friendship. He was a welcoming presence wherever he went, never meeting a stranger and always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He was a fighter and stood tall against every life challenge. On Friday, October 24, 2025, Billy Ray Blue, a vibrant soul, completed his earthly journey and transitioned from labor to eternal rest. He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Blue, Sr. and Carrie Blue, and his brothers, Earl Blue, Jr. and Thomas Blue. Blue's memories will forever be treasured by his beloved daughter, Charlisa (Monaleto) Irby of McDonough, GA; son, Kevin Rutledge of Birmingham, AL; brother, Edward (Beulah) Blue of Anniston, AL; sisters, Sarah Wilson of Chicago, IL, Mary Ann Sims of Chicago, IL, and Margaret (Ronnie) Young, of Villa Rica, GA; the love of his life until the end, Brenda Roberson Blue of Anniston, AL; special niece, Tara Blue of Alexandria, AL; special friends, Samuel Dailey and Cleotha McLaughlin, both of Anniston, AL; and a host of other relatives and friends. Let us come together to honor a remarkable man who not only stood tall but also helped others to rise. Billy R. Blue, you will forever be in our hearts. S.M. Goodson Funeral Home & Crematory 830 Noble Street Anniston, AL Sheffton M. Goodson 256-237-9771 www.smgoodson.com