WISE, VA.                                    SEPTEMBER 19, 2022

Billie Joe Cress 83, passed away peacefully and quietly in his home September 13, 2022 at the age of 83. Bill, as so many know him, was born in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. Growing up, his father was a carpenter, and his mother a wonderful home maker. Bill enjoyed playing in his box cars and playing the guitar. Bill was raised with his many siblings and would often tell stories about them.

Bill was a simple man who enjoyed movies, being with his family, friends and time spent with his dog. He loved collecting novelties and had many trinkets. Some of his favorites include eagles, owls and Indians. He went by 'Cowboy' and loved the night life. Bill was known for his dancing and could do "The Twist" all the way up till the day he passed. He never knew a stranger and he was a kind, fun loving man. He worked many years painting and was proud of his beautiful painting skills. He would pick up a paintbrush and paint any opportunity he had. Early in life Bill met Gearldine and together they welcomed their daughter, Patricia. Bill later married Betty and they raised their son, Allen. Bill enjoyed attending family parties and could always get a good laugh out of his short stories. Bill always had a story to tell from experiences during his life. As a family we remember Bill by his boiled chicken, cooking homemade cakes with frosting and his willingness to help or come along for the ride whenever possible. Bill is proud of all the items he worked for and the many vehicles he owned over the years. His four door Cherry Red Cadillac was his favorite. Bill loved riding around, and would tell the story about the time he found himself on top of a barn in his Chevy.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Omea Cress, who have been laid to rest in Big Stone, VA; his wife, Betty Cress and a brother, Bobby Cress.

Surviving are his sisters, Brenda Thacker and Evelyn Webb; daughters, Patricia Triplett and Brenda, Allen Joe Cress of Greenville, Tennessee; many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Bill is remembered for, "Huh" and "Yeah". The family would like to give special thanks to his sister Brenda and his best friend Rosco for being there for him. He spoke highly of so many of his family and friends. We are grateful he had so many that love him as much as we do. His family would like to share how much he means to each of us. He is such a great example of how to love, be patient and not let the little things get to us. Bill has left us with such good memories. We will miss him greatly and will remember the scent of his freshly lit cigarette and crisp pop of a "Cold drink" being opened as he called it. As believers in God we know Bill has moved on in his journey. We have peace in knowing that he also had a belief in God. We can see his smile now, as he passed over and was met by so many of his friends and family that have gone before him. Bill is a treasured soul. He has a beautiful lineage of children, grandchildren and now great grandchildren. How blessed and grateful we are to Bill to have had him in our lives. Until we meet again. We will still hear your famous sayings, "Ok Buddy", "Huh", "Yeah" and "It's cooooled". Love you Dad, Papaw and Great Papaw.

Services will be held In Billie Joe Cress Honor at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your local Pet adoption centers. Bill loves his pets.

Please visit www.sturgillfuneral.com to leave online condolences for the family

Sturgill Funeral Home 1621 Norton Road SW Wise, VA 2493 is in charge of arrangements.