William Everett Gault Jr.

William “Billy” Everett Gault, Jr., 83, known affectionately as Mr. Bill, Billy, and Billbo, passed away on July 16, 2026 after a short and courageous battle with lung cancer. He left this world quietly and simply, — just as he lived. Billy was born to William Everett Gault and Gladys Satcher Hanna on September 5, 1942 in Albany, Georgia.

Billy spent his career working in neighborhood taverns and establishments, eventually becoming a successful owner of several establishments before retiring. He had a gift for creating places where people felt welcome, and he took pride in the community that grew around him. Outside of work, Billy enjoyed the things that brought him peace: hunting, fishing, camping, gardening, shooting pool, a cold beer, and a good homemade cherry pie.

He was also one of the founding members of the Hold ’Em & Hit ’Em Club, an organization dedicated to raising scholarship funds for underprivileged youth in the livestock program — a legacy of generosity that continues to impact young people today.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents and stepparents: father William Everett Gault, mother Gladys Hanna, stepmother Roylene Gault, stepfather Chester Hanna. He is also preceded in death by his sister Mary Jane Fleck and his son, William Everett Gault, III.

Billy is survived by his children and grandchildren:

· Kathy Salinas, husband Ed

· Brian T. Smith, wife Kimmy, and their children Hayden and Addison

He is also survived by a large family of siblings:

· Larry James Gault, wife Patricia

· William Edward Gault

· Margaret Jean James, husband Larry

· George Michael Gault, wife Pam

· Linda Sue Spears, husband Earl

· John Anthony Gault

· Gary Hanna, wife Linda

· Mary Jane Duke

· Betty Sue Pep

· Donna Lou Hanna

· Cecelia Hickerson, husband William

Billy also leaves behind 44 nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, hospital staff, the team at Friendship Haven, and the hospice professionals at Essential Hospice who cared for Billy with compassion during his most fragile days.

Billy was a simple and gentle man, never asking for much and always appreciating the small comforts of life. In keeping with his wishes, he asked for no flowers or plants. Instead, he requested that donations be made in his name to the American Cancer Society, supporting the fight against the disease that ultimately took him.

He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his humor, his stubborn sweetness, and the way he loved — not loudly, but deeply.