William Franklin "Billy" Tarkenton Jr.

William "Billy" Franklin Tarkenton Jr., age 81, of Elizabeth City, NC, died at Sentara Albemarle Medical Center on Thursday, February 26, 2026. He was born in Hertford, NC, on December 2, 1944, to the late Helen Ruth Hassell Tarkenton and William Franklin "Bill" Tarkenton Sr.

Billy passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion. He was a cherished member of Blackwell Church, where he found a sense of belonging and community that he treasured deeply. His faith and commitment to his church family were central to his life, providing him with strength and comfort throughout his days.

Billy's greatest joy came from the love of his family, particularly his grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He took immense pride in being a devoted grandfather, always finding ways to show his care and support. His warmth and kindness touched the hearts of all who knew him, and his memory will be forever cherished by those he held dear. As a devoted salesman at Miles Jennings Hardware, he tirelessly worked to serve his community. His career was defined by his integrity and commitment.

He is survived by his daughters, Jennifer White (Matt) of Laurel Springs, NC, and Andrea Braymiller of Kill Devil Hills, NC; one son, Brian Braymiller (Renee) of Elizabeth City, NC; a sister, Evelyn Teague of Winston-Salem; a brother, Wayne Tarkenton (Sandy) of Charlotte, NC; grandchildren, Alyssa White O'Brien (Daniel) of Easley, SC, Dylan White of Greenville, NC, Ashlyn White of Raleigh, NC, Mackenzie Swimme (Kyle) of Elizabeth City, NC, Macie Braymiller of Elizabeth City, NC, and Jaylen Lindsey of Kill Devil Hills, NC; and three great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Twiford Memorial Chapel, with Pastor Caleb Bass officiating. The family will greet family and friends for a visitation one hour prior to the service at 1:00 p.m. A private burial will be held at Cedarwood Cemetery in Hertford, NC. Billy's service will be live streamed on his obituary page at www.TwifordFH.com.

Flowers are welcome, or memorial donations may be made to Blackwell Memorial Baptist Church, 700 N. Road St., Elizabeth City, NC 27909.

Twiford Funeral Homes, 405 E. Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC, is serving the Tarkenton family. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.