Billy Thomas Eakes, Sr., was born on June 14, 1947, in Marshall County, Alabama, and passed away on September 4, 2019, surrounded by his 4 children. Billy had a large and loving family, with 3 brothers and 3 sisters. He was the youngest boy, and his sisters all describe him as fun-loving. It was a running joke that he loved to eat and chase women, and he was very good at both.
Billy was not able to get much of a formal education, but he returned to school in his 30’s and obtained his GED. He worked as a self-taught auto mechanic, and he owned and operated Billy Eakes Auto Repair on Governors Drive for many years. He ended his career working for Sunbeam Bread Company.
He had 4 children, and he was very proud of their accomplishments. He loved his grandchildren very much, and he enjoyed singing them inappropriate songs—much to the dismay of his daughters.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Velma, and his brothers, Mac and Harold. He is survived by his brother, James Eakes (Faynell); sisters, Lorine Jones (Junior), Pauline Chamblee (Jerry), and Betty Marks (Michael); and many loving nieces and nephews. He leaves behind his 4 children, Billy Eakes Jr, Angie Kephart, Amanda Musico (Alan) and Michael Eakes (Emily), and his adored grandchildren, Alli, Alyssa, Amelia, Roman, Rylan, Lucas and Brantley. He also leaves behind his loving girlfriend of 22 years, Eula West.
