He is survived by a daughter, Stephanie Packin (Glenn), a son Jeffrey Maples (Fran), grandchildren, Brian Packin (Carrie), Courtney Osman (Hesham), Chris Maples, Kyle Maples, great grandchildren, Alex Osman, Samantha Osman, Cosette Packin and Elle Packin.
Billy grew up in Knoxville, TN, the youngest of three children.
He was 15 years old when he drove his little motorcycle from his family’s farm to work and the airport to take flying lessons.
He enlisted in the Air Force at the age of 18, however, he got homesick and returned home. Within a year he returned to the Air Force. He passed the exam that put him in the flight school program. He became a reconnaissance pilot during the Korean War. He remained in the Air Force until he made Captain and ended his career at the age of 28.
Billy then went into commercial aviation. He flew for Capital, which became United Airlines. He retired from United as captain after 33 years of flying.
Billy was an accomplished musician. He played the guitar and he also played the saw. Other hobbies included, flying, golf, inventing, crossword puzzles, cooking, and art.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00pm, Sunday August29, 2021, at Coble Funeral and Cremation Chapel at 1155 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington, NC, officiated by Pastor Billy Batten.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.CobleGreenlawn.com for the Maples family.
