[List] Obituary: Billy Yarbrough

[Cecil Stokes]

    Billy Yarbrough Obituary

Billy Yarbrough
June 18, 1931 - January 9, 2024

Billy Yarbrough, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and 
great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2024, in 
Florence, Alabama. Born on June 18, 1931, in Margerum, Alabama, Billy 
was the son of the late Charles Olin and Ruth Gaisser Yarbrough. Along 
with his parents, Billy was preceded in death by his first wife, 
Katherine Threet Yarbrough.

Billy is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Yarbrough,  children, 
Helen Yarbrough, Sandra (Scotte) Bell, and Russell G. Yarbrough; 
grandchildren, Derek Bell, Keegan (Megan) Bell, Kathleen (Kyle) Butcher, 
Russell G. Yarbrough II, and Joshua Yarbrough. They brought immense 
happiness to his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them. 
His great-grandchildren, Aidan, Russell III, Kailyn, Tyler, Gracen, 
Delaney, Harlow, and Kellan, held a special place in his heart.

Billy was a dedicated Christian. He found solace in his relationship 
with God and lived his life according to the teachings of Christ. As an 
internet Bible teacher, he shared his knowledge and faith with countless 
individuals, spreading love and hope to those in need.

Billy was an avid reader, always eager to expand his knowledge and 
explore new worlds through the pages of a book. He was also a 
self-published author, who poured his thoughts and experiences into his 
writings. Additionally, he had a passion for genealogy and spent many 
hours unraveling the intricate threads of his family history and many 
others.

In his earlier years, Billy served his country with honor and 
distinction. He dedicated four years to the United States Navy from 1950 
to 1954. His commitment to his country was unwavering, and his service 
was a testament to his patriotism.

Professionally, Billy was a chemist turned dedicated programmer in the 
aerospace industry. Throughout his career, he worked for seven different 
companies in Huntsville, Alabama, leaving an indelible mark on the 
field. His contributions to programs such as the Saturn V program, the 
Star Wars program, and the software for the main engine controllers for 
the Space Shuttle were invaluable. Billy's work with companies like 
Boeing and Honeywell played a vital role in advancing space exploration.

Billy's thirst for knowledge led him to achieve great academic success. 
He graduated as the valedictorian of Cherokee Vocational High School in 
1949. After serving in the Navy, he attended FSTC (UNA) and graduated 
Magna Cum Laude in 1959 with a double major in Mathematics and Chemistry.

Billy's character was marked by kindness, humility, and a genuine love 
for others. He was a pillar of strength for his family and a trusted 
friend to all who knew him. His wit and humor brightened every room he 
entered, and his wisdom touched the hearts of many.

A man of deep faith, integrity, and compassion, Billy's legacy will 
forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. We take comfort in 
knowing that he will be forever remembered as a remarkable man who 
touched the lives of many.


The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 13, 2024, from 
10:00 am to 11:00 am at Hazel Green Funeral Home.  Ben Renager will 
officiate funeral services at 11:00 am Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 
the funeral home. Burial at Plainview Cemetery will immediately follow 
the service with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, the 
family asks that donations be made to the North Alabama Christian 
Children's Home, PO Box 2652, Florence, AL 35630 or to the charity of 
your choice.

https://www.hazelgreenfuneralhome.com/obituary/Billy-Yarbrough

He worked in the HD Chemistry Department in the '50s.
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