Billy Boatwright

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Billy Boatwright, age 73, a beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, who entered his heavenly home on July 21, 2026. Billy was born on October 30, 1952 to the late Jones & Annie Boatwright.

Billy and Nova celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in April. Though he had only been given six months to live, he made sure to stick around long enough to hold “Hot Rod”, the nickname he gave his first great-grandson.

Billy never met a stranger and found his greatest joy in the simple things. Whether he had a fishing rod in his hand, was behind the wheel of his favorite Jeep, bringing home the bacon from the turkey shoot, or walking through a classic car show, he always had a smile on his face.

Known by many as the man who could fix anything, Billy had a gift that went beyond tools and parts. Family often joked that he turned wrenches in his sleep. If something was broken, you brought it to him. If you needed help, he was already on his way. 

He was a hardworking man who would give you the shirt off of his back. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his sense of humor, and the love he showed through his actions every single day.

In addition to his devoted wife, Nova, Billy is survived by his children, Toby Padgett, Carmen Stone (Brent), and Jada Garris (Kevin); grandchildren, Billie Green, Avery Hefner, Ainsley Padgett, and Kal Garris; great-grandson, Korbin "Hot Rod" Green; and his brothers, Johnny Boatwright (Mary) and J.P. Boatwright (Wanda).

The funeral service to celebrate Billy's life will be held at 1 o'clock on Saturday, July 25th, at Eastside Baptist Church with burial immediately following in Hall Town Cemetery. Rev. Mitch Bruner will officiate. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church, beginning at noon. Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Batesburg-Leesville Chapel, is assisting the family with arrangements. Active pallbearers will be Avery Hefner, Kal Garris, Preston Hall, Oscar Martinez, Kevin Garris, and Brent Stone. Honorary pallbearer will be Cindy Cole.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the VIA Hospice care team for the compassion, kindness, and comfort they provided during Billy's final days. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Eastside Baptist Church c/o Building Fund, 325 Mill Street, Batesburg, SC 29006.

Though he may be gone from our sight, his spirit lives on in every engine that hums, every line cast into the water, every shot fired at The Lead Shed turkey shoot, and every problem solved with seven fingers and a determined heart.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.