William Judson Church

William “Billy” Church Jr., age 83, passed away on February 13, 2026.

Billy was born in 1942 in Leeds to Carolyn (Shaneyfelt) Church and William “Bill” Church Sr. As the son of a military father, he attended many schools throughout the South before returning to Leeds to finish high school. During his school years, he played football and performed with his own band, reflecting a lifelong love of music.

He graduated from Jacksonville State University with a Master’s degree in 1964 and went on to teach in the Birmingham area. Billy was a devoted member of First Baptist Church Leeds and enjoyed playing slow-pitch softball for the Leeds Merchants. Known for his love of music and performance, he appeared on The Country Boy Eddie Show as an Elvis impersonator, delighting audiences with his talent and personality.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carolyn (Shaneyfelt) Church and William “Bill” Church Sr., and his nephew, Shane Smith.

He is survived by his sisters, Judy Moore and Katrina (Mike) Smith; nieces Tracie, Dana, and Courtney; nephew Todd; and a host of great-nieces and great-nephews. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Services will be held at Cedar Grove Cemetery on February 21, 2026, at 12:30 PM.