Billy D Short

TEGA CAY, SC - Billy Short 86, of Tega Cay, SC, passed away on July 27, 2017, at his home, surrounded by his immediate family. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on July 11, 1931 to Doyle Edward Short and Lelia Agee Short. He was raised in Charlotte, NC and was a member of Harding High School, Class of 1950. He is a retired welder, and sheet metal worker. Billy had a passion for boxing and was named “Most Promising Boxer” in The Ring Magazine in 1955. He was also inducted into the North Carolina Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.

He had a successful amateur experience and turned pro, winning all of his 13 professional fights. He was looking forward to a great career in boxing, unfortunately, after the Gault fight, was involved in a traffic accident , losing not only a kneecap but his chances in the ring. Always striving to be best in anything and knowing he must provide for his family, he had to get a “real job” and chose welding, which he learned watching his father weld from an early age. He became ‘one of the best’ in this new endeavor, working in several nuclear power plants. His most difficult adventure was working for Reynolds Aluminum in Venezuela for 3 years, teaching the Venezuelans the art of welding. His greatest accomplishment was his family. Loved attending and watching Terry’s wrestling matches as he became a very good athlete, and the many dance recitals for Tammy. Enjoyed the many family trips to the beach and mountains, and he and Sarah were delighted when Harrah’s opened in Cherokee. Later in life the little ones brought lots of sunshine and love, whom he adored. Billy – Pop – Papaw – you will be sorely missed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ronald D., Raymond D., Anthony L., and Paul Pinkney. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Sarah Wilson Short, son, Terry Dale Short and daughter Tammy Star Thacker, four grandchildren, Mindy S. Solaka, Michael Alan Crum, Kevin Daniel Crum, and Lee Fox Thacker; five great grandchildren, MaKenzi, Skylyn, Starlyn, Luke Fox Thacker and William Joseph “Bill” Solaka.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Tuesday, August 1, at 2:00 pm at McEwen Funeral Services Chapel, 5716 Monroe Rd., Charlotte, NC 28212. The family will receive friends in the Chapel at 1:00 – 2:00 pm. Interment will follow the service at Sharon Memorial Park.

The family would like to thank Doctors John Alexander and James Smith for the exceptional care given to Billy and his family during his final years of life.

Arrangements under the direction of McEwen Funeral Services, Charlotte, NC.