Billy Gene Lackey, 86, of Polkville, passed away peacefully on April 27, surrounded by family, at Hospice Wendover.

Born May 26, 1937, he was retired from Doran Textiles as a lab manager and a faithful member of Polkville Methodist Church.

He was a loving husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle. An avid Burns High football fan, he loved gardening, walking, Tarheel basketball and Nascar. He was most proud of his grandchildren and his great-granddaughters, quoted by great granddaughter Blakely as "the best grandpa ever!"

He was preceded in death by his parents Guy and Alma Lackey; brother, Guy Lackey, Jr. and sister, Dorothy Lackey Stallings.

Survived by his wife of 63 years, Mamie Ruppe Lackey; son, James Lackey (Chrissy); daughters, Debbie Leonhardt (Joe) and Jane Cole (Todd); grandchildren, Zach Cole (Whittany), Andrew Lackey (Lynsey) and Meredith Cole Willis (Jake); great-granddaughters, Blakely and Adalyn Cole; brother, Donnie Lackey (Lynn) and special cousin, Carol Champion.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Polkville Methodist Church, PO Box 9, Polkville, NC 28136 or to Via Health Partners, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC 28150.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday April 30, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Polkville Methodist Church.

The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at 3:00 PM with the Rev. David Lee and Dr. David A Irish officiating.

A guest register is available at www.stameytysingerfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Stamey-Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., Fallston, NC.