Billy Ray Sisk, age 88, of Lawrenceburg, TN passed away Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at Southern Regional Medical Center in Lawrenceburg, TN. He was a native of Lawrence County, a veteran of the United States Air Force, a former volunteer fireman, and a retired mechanic. He was a member of the VFW Post 1618 and of the Baptist Faith.
Mr. Sisk was born in Lawrence County on October 5, 1935, to Robert Luther and Edith Elsie Pace Sisk. He was raised in the Fall River community with his six siblings: June, Gean, Ted, Jimmy, Charlie, and Robbie. He attended Gum Springs School and entered the United States Air Force at the age of 18. He was an airplane mechanic and served in the Korean Conflict. After serving his country, he returned to Lawrenceburg and met his wife of 63 years, Barbara Irwin Sisk. Together they raised three sons and enjoyed eleven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. He was known as a man who loved to piddle, and he could fix just about anything. He was also famous for his jokes and his ability to tell a great story. He loved to tell stories of growing up with his siblings and his time in the Air Force. More than anything, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and loved spending time with family.
Mr. Sisk was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Luther and Edith Elsie Pace Sisk; his siblings, June Schabilon, Gean Bryant, Ted Sisk, Jimmy Sisk, and Charles Sisk; and one great-granddaughter, Everly Kolesar.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Barbara Irwin Sisk; sister, Robbie Peppers; sister-in-law, Donna Irwin Sisk; brother-in-law, Don Irwin (Joyce); three sons, Steve Sisk (Kathy); Terry Sisk; Lee Sisk (Erin) all of Lawrenceburg. Eleven grandchildren also survive; Cassie Kolesar (Brandon), Cole Sisk (Katie), Carly Carrington (Chris), Zoe Davis (Justin), Emma Sisk, Jacob Sisk, Cara Jones, Tyler Sisk (Briana), Bailey Sisk, Rob McGuire, and Andy Sisk. Fifteen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.
Arrangements are being handled by Neal Funeral Home, 231 N. Military Avenue, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Neal Funeral Home. Graveside services and interment will be conducted at Oak Hill Cemetery with full military honors at 3:30 PM Sunday, January 14, 2024, with Jacob Evans officiating. The family suggests memorials be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
