Billy "Bill" Ray Calhoun Sr.

Billy "Bill" Ray Calhoun, Sr, age 85, of Alabaster, Alabama, passed away peacefully surrounded by family after a long and courageous battle with congestive heart failure on June 11th, 2025. Born on August 20, 1939, Billy was born in Calhoun, Louisiana, the fourth of seven children of Hugh and Clotea Calhoun.

A devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and loyal friend, he leaves behind a legacy he defined by quiet strength, humility, and unwavering love for those around him.

He was a man who never sought attention but always showed up — at every ball game, family gathering, celebration, and moment of need. He taught his children not just how to hunt, fish, drive a stick-shift, or sink a jump shot from the top of the key, but also how to live with patience, curiosity, and compassion.

Whether he was watching Nationals’ games on the porch, checking in during storms, or filling the kitchen with the scent of his famous vegetable soup and cornbread, his presence brought comfort and steadiness. He loved God, lived for quality time with family, believed deeply in the people he loved, and showed that love in everyday moments.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and countless others whose lives were better because he was in them. His legacy is not in what he owned, but in who he raised, taught, and loved.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Milton Calhoun and Hugh Calhoun, Jr.; sister, Pat Tedeton; and brothers-in-law, Shelby Funderburk and Clayton Tedeton. He is survived by his wife of 58 ½ years, Melinda Calhoun; two sons, Marc Calhoun (Katie) and Billy Calhoun Jr. (Abby); one daughter, Seancee Touhey (Matthew); six grandchildren, Kelsi Ertman (Shawn), Dillon Calhoun, Alec Calhoun, Sierra Calhoun, Mikayla Touhey, and Madison Touhey; three great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Joseph, and Tommy; one brother, Robert Calhoun; two sisters, Barbara Smith (David) and Jo Funderburk; sisters-in-law, Gaye Calhoun and Grace Calhoun; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He will be laid to rest at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Calhoun, Louisiana on Saturday, June 21, 2025, following a celebration of life service at Mulhearn Funeral Home in West Monroe, Louisiana.