William "Billy" Jesse Wadsworth, of Arley, passed away at his home in Arley and entered heaven on Friday, January 18, 2019.
Billy was 53 years old and born on January 8, 1966. He was a lifelong resident of Arley, Alabama. Billy grew up in Arley United Methodist Church and in later years, he became a member of Arley First Baptist Church. Billy’s accurate, but simple testimony is, “Jesus Loves Me and I Love Jesus.”
Billy was a kind and gentle person who was always happy. He never met a stranger. He loved Meek sports, Meek band, and Alabama Football. Billy was passionate in his loyalty and he loved the people of Arley.
Billy’s mother, Ruth Wadsworth, died in 1988 and was always worried about Bill. She was worried if Billy would have a full life. Billy’s life brought joy to his community as evident in the many tributes and stories that have been told in his honor.
If the church doors were open, Billy was there. If a Meek sports team was competing, he was there to root them on. If the Meek High Band was performing or competing, he was there to help. In simple terms, Billy lived a full, happy, loyal, and gentle life. Billy will be deeply missed by his family and community.
Visitation will be held Sunday, January 20, 2019 at Arley First Baptist Church from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. He will lie in state on Monday, January 21, 2019 from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. at Arley First Baptist Church, where services will be at 2 pm. Dr. Roger White and Brother Adam Rogers will officiate. Burial will follow in Arley United Methodist Cemetery.
Billy is survived by his father, Ray Wadsworth; sister, Patsy (Bobby) Williams; brother, Tim (Virginia) Wadsworth; nieces, Emily (Lee) Akins, Alisha (Doug) Barnett and Tara Middleton; nephews, Jarrod (Kerri) Wadsworth and Bart Middleton; great nieces and nephews, Owen, Karlee, Audrey, Eli, and Brantlee. Billy was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Wadsworth and his step-mother, Nancy Wadsworth. Pall bearers are: Lee Akins, Doug Barnett, Jarrod Wadsworth, Jamie Vernon, John Lemsky, Byron Brown, John Boyett and Tim Wadsworth.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Billy’s honor at Traders and Farmers Bank, 6461 County Road 41, Arley, Alabama 35541 for the creation of community basketball courts. Nichols Funeral Home made the announcement.
