Billy Joe Halford's Obituary
Billy Joe Halford, age 80, son, husband, father, grandfather, and great friend to many, passed away peacefully at Methodist Hospice on Monday, January 25, 2021. He was born March 12, 1940 in Memphis, TN and is predeceased by his parents F.A. Halford of Rutherford, TN and Frances Compton Halford of Brownsville, TN.
Billy Joe graduated from Messick High School, Memphis, in 1958, where his leadership skills were recognized by his classmates as they elected him Senior class president. He was also a member of the 12-year club, honor society and in the Messick Hall of Fame. Billy Joe’s Messick connection continued for many years as he led planning committees for class reunions- the most recent held in September 2018, the 60th year bash. If you grew up in the Highland and Park area, you probably saw Billy Joe and friends at the once famous Berretta’s restaurant.
He attended Memphis State University which led him to a career as premium auditor for USF&G in Memphis where he retired after 30 years of dedicated service. Billy Joe loved to bowl, work in the yard, travel to the beach, dance the bop, and spend time with his 5 grandchildren. If you knew Billy Joe, you knew his sense of humor and how he often loved to laugh along with others.
Throughout his life, Billy Joe served as member, teacher and elder at the First Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Olive Branch, MS- which is the former Park Avenue Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Stewart Halford whom he married over 58 years ago at Speedway Terrace Baptist Church in Memphis. He was proud of his two children, Ronnie (Angie) Halford of Olive Branch, MS and Sharon (Matt) Mrok of Germantown, TN. He adored his grandchildren, Zach Halford, Ashley Halford, Lauren Mrok, Nathan Mrok, and Noah Mrok. Although Billy Joe never had siblings, he was a true member of the extended Stewart and Moeschle families, plus he and Linda had a deep friendship with Charles and Jean Coleman throughout his years.
Celebration of life will be held at Memorial Park, 5668 Poplar, on Tuesday, February 2, with visitation from 1:30-2:30 p.m. followed by a graveside service at 2:30 p.m.. All are invited.
Click the link below to view the webcasted service:
http://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/47091
Memorials can be made in his honor and memory to First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 8161 Germantown Rd, Olive Branch, MS 38654 or to the donor’s choice.
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