Billy Joe Abercrombie

LEXINGTON Billy Joe Abercrombie was born in Mt Holly, North Carolina to Toy and Josephine Abercrombie. He is preceded in death by his only brother Bobby Abercrombie. Billy maintained a lifelong interest in fishing and photography. Early in life he developed an interest in airplanes that lead to obtaining a pilot license and service in the Civil Air Patrol. His interest in flying would later culminate in his service in the Korean War as a jet fighter pilot and Captain in the United States Airforce. After returning from Korea he obtained a Bachelor’s degree from Belmont Abby College in North Carolina and married his wife of 59 years Peggy McKinney. Billy then embarked in a law enforcement career that spanned over 40 years, starting as a rural police officer in Gastonia, North Carolina. He then served as a Special Agent in the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms for over 25 years before retiring. Billy pursued a second career with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, retiring from SLED as a Lieutenant. He was awarded the Order of the Palmetto by Governor Beasley and an honorary commission as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Alabama National Guard from Governor Wallace in appreciation for his service in law enforcement. Billy became a Master Mason in 1954 and was a member of the Dutch Fork Lodge # 402 for over 60 years. He is survived by his wife Peggy Abercrombie and two sons, Wesley and Nathan. Services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, March 3, 2018 at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.