Billy Dee McPhail, 94, of Memphis, Tennessee, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on June 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He is survived by his sister Betty Jo Santucci (née McPhail); his beloved wife of 43 years, Linda Sue McPhail (née Hodge); his children, James McPhail (Cindy) of Oxford, Mississippi; Lisa McPhail Ellis (Tim) of Batesville, Mississippi; Teresa Lester (Johnny) of Southaven, Mississippi; and Kimberly Allen (David) of Bartlett, Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Janie McPhail; and by his siblings, Helen Ruth McPhail, Prentiss Hix McPhail, and Ronald Mays McPhail.

Billy was born on April 18, 1932, in Slate Spring, Mississippi, to A.D. and Eleanor Irene McPhail (née Mays). He joined the United States Army in 1953 and served nearly two years before receiving an honorable discharge.

Billy worked as a mechanic and enjoyed fishing, taking long scenic drives through the Smoky Mountains, and spending mornings at Gibson’s Donuts visiting with friends. Above all, he loved and served his God, he loved and served his family, and he loved and served his country.

At the age of 29, Billy accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. Alongside his wife, he was a faithful member of East Side Baptist Church. Founding Pastor Teddy Steele once said of him, “You can always count on Billy because he’s always the same.” His steady character, warm spirit, and unwavering faith served as a faithful witness to the grace and compassion of the Lord.

Billy was the proud and devoted grandfather of 15 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren. His love for family extended far beyond these generations, and he also held his nieces, nephews, and their families just as close to his heart.

He was a source of unconditional love, wisdom, and strength to each of them. His family cherished him deeply, and the legacy of his love, guidance, and faith will continue through the generations that follow.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 13, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at East Side Baptist Church, followed by a Homegoing Celebration at 3:00 p.m.

Friends and family are welcome to send floral arrangements or sympathy plants to East Side Baptist Church, 7981 U.S. Highway 70, Bartlett, TN 38133, prior to the service. In Lieu of flowers, a donation to the East Side Baptist Church Building Program could be given.

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8-10, KJV)