Billy Ray White

Billy Ray White was born November 10, 1930 and passed to his eternal home March 25, 2026. He was born at Huttig, AR to John and Victoria Hendrix White. Growing up on a farm he knew gardening was in his blood. He worked hard traveling many miles back and forth to school for his college education.

Billy Ray built his life defined by love, hard work, faith, and deep devotion to family. Through his years of service in the National Guard, retiring as a Master Sergeant (E-8), his career in education as a school teacher and Vo-Tech Director, and raising his daughters, Lori and Lana. He cultivated a legacy rooted in dedication, integrity, and a life well-lived.

To many, Billy Ray was simply known as “Pappy”, a title he wore with pride and joy. He was a master gardener, a devoted sports fan, and a true buffet connoisseur, but above all, he was a proud dad, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He found joy in the simple things: being elbows deep in the dirt planting a garden, or sitting in the stands cheering on his great and grandchildren at their sporting events. If the TV was on, it was tuned to a Razorback or Vol’s game at full volume; if it was winter, he was likely in the deer woods, and he was known as the best "ground checking" hunter around.

If you were lucky enough to have a conversation with him, you likely heard stories of his time in the Military, his years teaching, his family, or memories from growing up with his seven siblings. He never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel like a friend. More often than not, he’d greet you with a simple, familiar: “Hey buddy.”

Billy Ray lived a full and beautiful 95 years doing the things he loved most, surrounded by the people he loved. We are deeply grateful for the years we were given with him, and for the lessons, laughter, and memories he leaves behind.

Billy Ray is survived by his former wife and lifelong friend, Lynda Roebuck White. His children Drs. Don and Lori Weiss of Dickson, TN and Lynn and Lana Chaffin of Mabelvale. He was blessed by his grandchildren Dr. Trae and McKayla Weiss, Taylor and Amanda Weiss, Caleb Chaffin, and Clift and Ashlyn Chaffin. His precious great grandchildren Andrew Owens, Bain Weiss, Lennon Weiss and Lucy Weiss. He also loved his four legged family members Diesel, Whiskey, Millie, Oakley, and Murphy who would not let him go anywhere unless they went with him.

Burial will be at the North Little Rock Veterans Cemetery with full honors Friday, April 3. Family and Friends visitation will be Saturday, April 4 from 5 to 7 at Pinecrest Funeral Home in Alexander.

The family would like to thank the VA Hospital and Pleasant Hill Adult Health Center for helping us take great care of Pappy.