Billy Gene Stovall of Carbon Hill, AL passed away on September 8, at the age of 88. After several months of declining health, Billy passed peacefully at home with his beloved wife, Alice, and his son, Gabriel, by his side.
Billy was born on December 5, 1931 to parents Felix and Belva Stovall. The oldest of four children, he had the opportunity to help out his family by tending to their farm and land where a strong work ethic would be instilled in him forever. He went on to become a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He met his loving wife of 69 years, Alice, while she was still in high school. They eloped to Mississippi to get married and they had their first child, the late Canella Stovall, 9 months later. They became parents to Gabriel Stovall a few years later. His strong work ethic landed him in the logging and mining industry where he owned his own mining company in the 1970s. Once he sold his mining company, he continued to pursue his logging business throughout his lifetime, and he became interested in real estate and went on to purchase many properties and land in Walker and Fayette County as well as condominiums in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, AL. His family retains many of these business ventures today.
He never missed an opportunity to show his love and support to his family and community. He attended every small victory and large occasion his family ever had. He also was a strong supporter in anything that involved the community and Carbon Hill. He loved being called “Papa Billy” by everyone. He proved to be a profound and highly respected member of the community by almost everyone he ever met. His humble personality combined with his giving heart was shown throughout his lifetime. He also loved traveling the world and visiting many countries throughout his life including several trips to Asia and Europe. He and his wife especially loved to cruise with their friends, having gone on over 35 cruises. His strong work ethic, his love for his family, his humility and his love for life are traits that will be remembered forever. His family will celebrate and cherish the patriarch that he was, forever.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Felix and Belva Stovall; his daughter Canella Stovall; his siblings, Bob Stovall and Agnus Files (Dr. Jerry Files). He is survived by his wife, Alice Stovall; his son, Gabriel Stovall (Janice Pearson); his daughter in law, Denise Stovall; his grandchildren, Chase Stovall, Adam Stovall and Courtney Stovall Wilson (Troy Wilson); his great-grandchildren, Peyton Stovall, Nash Wilson, Winslow Wilson and Palmer Wilson; his sister, Bernice Tucker (the late Bobby Tucker); his sister in law, Ann Stovall and many nieces and nephews.
Per his wishes, a graveside service will be held at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church on Friday, September 11 at 11am. All are invited to attend as we celebrate his life as a profound member of our community. Officiating will be from Brother Joey Vick and Brother Billy Cagle.
Billy was a lifelong member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. People wishing to honor his life are encouraged to make a donation to the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church cemetery fund in lieu of flowers.
Pallbearers are: Chase Stovall, Troy Wilson, Leslie Stovall, Scott Jenkins and Jerry Files.
Honorary pallbearers are: Kenny Burkett and Donny Reece.
