Billy Ray Edwards, 74, husband of Cathy King Edwards, formerly of Florence, South Carolina, passed away on May 20, 2025, at his home in Lawrenceburg. He was born in Wilson, NC, on April 8, 1951, to the late Willie Edwards and Mamie Mae Reason Edwards.

Billy proudly served his country in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Sergeant during his four years of service. After his military service, Billy became a successful business owner, operating H & H Chimney Sweep in South Carolina for over 30 years. A passionate Harley Davidson rider, Billy was active in a South Carolina-based motorcycle club for veterans, where he found camaraderie and purpose. He was a proud patriot, a loyal friend, and above all, a devoted family man.

Billy's greatest joy in life was his family. His wife Cathy was the center of his world, and he fiercely loved his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Affectionately known as "Poppy" and "Papa," he was cherished for his generous spirit, his sense of humor, and his knack for lighthearted mischief. His family remembers him as both a giver and a prankster—someone who could make you laugh just as easily as he could lend a helping hand.

In addition to his parents, Billy was preceded in death by his brother, Nelton Edwards, and a grandson, Waker.

Billy is survived by his wife of 48 years, Cathy King Edwards; his children, Heath Edwards (wife Haley) and Heather Willingham (fiancé Jared Smith); grandchildren, Wesley, Wyatt, Waylon, Jakob, LeaAnne, Aiden, Ashton, and Zander; great grandchildren, Everlea and Karlee; and a sister-in-law, Lettie Edwards.

Funeral Service will be 12:00 PM on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at Ritchie & Peach Funeral Home with Pastor Paul Carey officiating. Burial with Military Honors will follow immediately after the service at Camp Nelson National Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service on Wednesday.

Serving as pallbearers will be Jakob Edwards, Heath Edwards, Aiden Edwards, Ashton Edwards, Wesley Willingham, and Jared Smith.

Memorial contributions in honor of Billy Edwards are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 or online at Wounded Warrior Online Donation.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ritchie & Peach Funeral Home, Lawrenceburg, KY. Condolences may also be expressed at www.ritchieandpeach.com.