We are gathered here today to pay our respects to Billy Holmes, who passed away on June 8, 2023, at the age of 72.

Born on August 17, 1950, in Jonesboro, Louisiana, Billy was the son of Bernard and Donna Holmes. He was married to his beloved wife Joanna for over 50 years, and together they raised four beautiful children, Mary, Cynthia, Wesley, and Kevin.

Billy attended Burke High School, where his love of construction first began. He graduated in 1969 with a hammer in one hand and a diploma in the other.

Over the years, Billy became known for his impressive work on construction sites all around Louisiana. If you've ever driven on a well-paved road, built a sturdy house, or marveled at a towering skyscraper, there's a good chance Billy played some small part in its creation.

But Billy was more than just a construction worker - he was also a devoted family man with a wicked sense of humor. He loved nothing more than cracking jokes and making people laugh, whether he was at a family gathering or chatting with coworkers on the job site.

At the end of his life, Billy faced his toughest foe yet - cancer. But he fought with everything he had, determined to stick around for as long as he could. Even as he faced his final days, he managed to crack a smile and crack a joke or two.

Billy will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and coworkers. We'll miss his quick wit, his hearty laugh, and his expert craftsmanship. Rest in peace, Billy - we know you're already cracking jokes up there in construction heaven.