Billy Joe Sewell

Billy Joe Sewell, 83, died Tuesday, January 25, 2011, at his home in Pontotoc. He was born December 23, 1927, to Leonard A. and Jimmie Clyde Pitts Sewell. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. He was a member of the First Baptist Church, American Legion, Jaycees, and Rotary. He was a power use advisor for the Pontotoc Electric Power Association for 50+ years. He coached Little League and American Legion Baseball. He was very active in his church and in the community.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Friday, January 28, 2011, at the First Baptist Church with Dr. Ken Hester officiating. Burial will be in Pontotoc Memorial Gardens. Browning Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Ella Ruth Perry Sewell; a daughter, Kathy (Keith) Reece of Tupelo; a son, Perry (Sharen) Sewell of Pontotoc; a brother, James (Laveda) Sewell; three grandchildren, Ian Boswell, Haley Sewell, and Wesley Sewell.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two granddaughters, Kathryn Bethany Reece and Ilisabeth Anna Reece.

Pallbearers are Judge Fred Wicker, Claude Jones, Sammy Cruse, Jimmy Wise, Bill Jackson, Floyd McCullough and Bobby Davis.

Honorary pallbearers are Jimmy Wise’s Sunday School Class and the past and present employees of the Pontotoc Electric Power Association.

Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 27, 2011, at the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church Building Fund, 31Washington Street, Pontotoc, MS 38863.

Arrangements under the direction of Browning Funeral Home, Pontotoc, MS.