Billy Ray Whitson

Billy Ray Whitson, age 89, of Erwin, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 03, 2025, at his residence while he was surrounded by his family. He is a son of the late Bascom and Emmaline Jones Whitson.

Billy retired from the United States Air Force where he honorably served his country for twenty years. He was awarded a Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Longevity Service Award with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and Air Force Commendation Medal. Prior to his USAF service Billy also honorably served with the United States Navy and United States Army.

Billy was an avid Elvis Presley fan he even bought his very own pink Cadillac! He visited Graceland and shared his love for Elvis with his son, Bob. Billy was a loving and devoted husband and father.

In addition to his parents, Billy was preceded in death by three brothers: Brown, Bobby, and Tommy Whitson; three sisters: Mae Steadman, Mary Ellen Kennedy, and Virginia “Jenny” Brotherton.

Billy leaves behind to cherish many great memories, his wife of twenty-four years, Imelda Pajarilla Whitson; four children: William Whitson (Becky), Michael Whitson, Joy Harrod, and Bob David Whitson; two brothers: Benny Whitson (Tammy) and Timothy Whitson (Saundra); mother-in-law, Primetive Pajarilla; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

The Whitson family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 09, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Billy’s funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. His committal will be held at 1:00 p.m. in the Mountain Home National Cemetery (Historic Site). Full Military Honors will be rendered by Shaw Air Force Base. Shaw Air Force Base will serve as active pallbearers. Those wishing to attend Billy’s committal are asked to meet at the Mountain Home National Cemetery (Historic Site) at 12:55 p.m. on Tuesday.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Whitson family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Whitson family. (423) 743-1380.

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