Petersburg, IN – Billy Joe Gadberry II, 67 years old of Petersburg Indiana, was welcomed to “The Big Party” on May 22, 2023 surrounded by his loving family at Deaconess Gateway. Bill was born in Wichitaw, Kansas on February 8th, 1956 to Bill and Quindola Gadberry. He married the love of his life, Tina on August 10th, 1981.
Bill was preceded in death by his father Billy Gadberry, his wife Tina Gadberry, grandson
Jayden Barnes, and sister Quindola Gadberry.
Bill is survived by his mother Quindola Gadbery, children Misty (Michael) Bell of Petersburg,
Jamie Manning of Pike County, Jalah (Jacob) Sisk, and son Rylan Gabdberry. Grandchildren
Kylee Shoultz, Ashlyn Shoultz, Zayne Bell, Hadley Jo Bell, and Brynlee King. Siblings,
Kathie (Jamie) Heflin of Arkansas, Donnie Gadberry of Missouri, and Gary (Pat) Gadberry of
Missouri, as well as countless extended family members and the best of friends.
Bill was employed at the Pike County School Corporation as the Lead Bus Mechanic, was a
lifelong truck driver and a jack of all trades. His favorite part of life was his family, specifically
his grandkids! He loved watching them and cheering them on in ANY and everything they’ve
done throughout their lives. His pride was his legacy, his love for his family and friends was
unmatched. He loved the Lord and preaching The Good News. Bill was the best lead
guitarist for multiple gospel groups and cover bands (back in the day!), when his wife Tina
was pregnant with their daughter, he turned down a career opportunity to play lead for
George Straight. Music was a passion of his, and he was known for being the best… music
and his majestic hair!
Bill left nothing unsaid to anyone, regardless of whether they wanted to hear it or not.
Whether you knew him as Bill, “Wildman,” “The Silver Fox,” or “Kenny Rogers,” he was
“Pop,” to everyone in the community.
The loss of him on this Earth is going to be felt for a long time to come, however, the gain at
The Big Party (Heaven), and the reunification between the “Dynamic Duo” is certainly the
best reward and honor he will have ever received.
Celebration of life for Bill will take place on Saturday, May 27th at Glezen Revival Center, in
Petersburg, Indiana. Visitation will be 11:00am-4:00pm EST, with a brief service to follow at
4:00pm.
Simple Cremation Evansville is entrusted with care.
Shirley Mckendree says
I have so many memories of Uncle Bill. He came into my life when I was very young and remains to this day. Very sad for the loss of this amazing man, but very happy that he is with his love again and neither have anymore sickness. Thanks for many memories Uncle Bill, you will be missed.
Jerry Hendershot says
So sorry for you. He’s gone way to soon.
Tom Chiles says
I loved Bill and Tina when I knew them when we all lived in Sikeston and attended church together back in the 1970’s & 80’s. Bill and I played music together in church and he was a great lead guitarist. I wish I had been able to reconnect with him later in life. Prayers for his family.
Mildred Elaine Young says
Our prayers and empathy are with the family. We have attended church in different places with him and Tina over the years. My husband Jeff, always enjoyed talking with him at the store. We were always surprised at the people who did not know he was a fine guitarist. He and Tina worked overtimes taking care of their loved ones and I hope those memories will never be forgotten. Glad we had the opportunity to know him.
Cynthia Hurt says
Oh Billy. Your kindness your smile… I remember you from school. Always polite. You helped me out with many wise words when I was hurting. I know those heavenly doors opened up with grips of angels welcoming you. If you every need to feel the cool Breeze on your face you and your wife come fly by with your wings 🪽 in the air. I’ll know it’s you two. Blessings.