Billy Lee “Bill” Petty was born on August 16, 1939 and left our earthly presence on July 31, 2024.
Billy was the son of the late Frank William and Louise Rycroft Petty and was born in the family’s home just north of Buchanan. There he enjoyed country life, full of hard work and creative fun. He graduated from Buchanan High School and went to work at James Lees & Sons before meeting and eventually marrying Sandra Sink, a young nurse from Roanoke. Approximately a year after marriage Billy was drafted into the US Army and was stationed in Korea, the only time he strayed very far from his hometown. Upon returning home from service, he started his career as a Home Beneficial Life Insurance agent, which allowed him to get to know and assist thousands of families over a broad expanse of the state of Virginia. In a career spanning 39 years, Billy was voted one of the company’s top agents 38 of those years, winning numerous awards for his service. He was a long-term member of the Buchanan Lions Club and served many years as a Deacon of Cedar Bluff Baptist Church. He traveled far, knew many and lived a wonderful life.
In addition to his parents, Billy was predeceased by his infant brother, Phillip, and his sister, Hellen Wooton, as well as his brothers-in-law, Charles Wooton, Roy Alexander and Don Thompson.
Billy is survived by his wife of 62 years, Sandra Sink Petty: his children, David Petty and wife Lisa, Dana Petty and companion Todd Chesnut, Darren “Moe” Petty and wife Angie; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Christina Georgakopoulos, Marena “Emmie” Georgakopoulos, Matthew Blake and wife Kallie and their children Kori and Maci; Olivia Garman, and Victoria Harlow and husband, Tyler. Billy is also survived by his sisters who adored him and their families, Anita Thompson, Linda Alexander, Becky Hannah and husband, Scott and Janie Harris and husband, Will. Billy also leaves nieces, nephews, cousins and legions of friends, neighbors and former co-workers all of whom he cherished.
Billy’s visitation was held from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, August 3, 2024 at the Buchanan Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home. His funeral service was held Sunday, August 4, at 2 p.m. with Elder Scott Hannah, Pastor Brian Sink, and Chaplain Melton Johnson officiating. Interment followed with military honors in Fairview Cemetery, Buchanan. Those wishing to make a contribution, please consider the Cedar Bluff Baptist Church, 24822 Lee Highway, Buchanan, 24066. Condolences can be made at www.botetourtfuneralhome.com or 540-254-3000.
