Billy Ray Scott

1941 - 2024

Mr. Billy Ray Scott, age 83, formerly of Muskegon, Michigan, passed away at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada on Sunday, November 3, 2024. Billy was born in Forest, Mississippi on January 19, 1941 to Melvin and J'Rutha (Cook) Scott. Billy graduated from Jackson State University with a Bachelor of Education and from Michigan State University with a Master of Administration. He served as principal of Angell and Steel Elementary Schools for over 25 years prior to his retirement. He spent over 30 years as a respected basketball official, along with his good friend and partner, Jim McClain. Billy served on many local boards including his position as the past-president of the Muskegon Lions Club. Paraphrasing the words of his best friend, Jim McClain, Billy was extremely competitive, he loved to win at anything and would never back down from a challenge. He did all these things with an incredible sense of humor. He leaves a legacy of leadership, love, fairness, kindness, and joy for all who knew him. And, oh, how the man could dress! Total class and impeccable integrity! He could make a room light up just by walking in. Billy is survived by his three daughters, Stephanie (Andrew) Douglas, Melanie (Creighton Goins) Scott, and Kelly (Michael Greene) Ivy; 12 grandchildren, Tyler Jeffries, Devonte Douglas, Tiarra Hamilton, Taia Elliott, Makenna Anthony, Melissa Scott, Daisha (Nytiana) Jefferson, Cameron Scott, Jamie Kitchen, Christian Banks, Lia Baldwin, and Tevin Scott; three great-grandchildren; five sisters, Glenda Black, Fredna (Deroy) Weenes, Judy Forrest, Barbara (Daniel) Jones, and Marilyn Scott; and his brother, Jim McClain. He was preceded in death by two children, Pamela Scott and Kevin Scott; his parents; sister, Betty Scott; and brother, Robby Woods. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, November 9, 2024 at Kingdom Embassy Covenant Church (3025 Glenside Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441). VISITATION will be one hour prior to his service. MEMORIALS in memory of Billy may be directed to Kingdom Embassy Covenant Church. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.