Billy Hilson

Billy Hilson, 78, a resident of Dothan passed away Sunday, August 24, 2014.

Funeral services will be held 4pm Wednesday, August 27, 2014 at Sunset Funeral Home with Rev. Ray Cobb officiating.  Burial will follow in Cowarts Baptist Church Cemetery with Robert Byrd directing.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6-8pm Tuesday.

Mr. Hilson was born August 31, 1935 in Houston County and he resided most of his life in Cowarts.  He was employed with Adams Marine as an outboard marine mechanic and general manager for over 35 years. Mr. Hilson later owned and operated Bill Hilson Marine Service Center for 20 years until he medically retired in 2013. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren.  Mr. Hilson was preceded in death by his wife, Gayle Hilson and by his parents, Ralph Waldo and Florence Cobb Hilson.

Survivors include, 6 children who were loved dearly, Misty Hilson Jeff Golden, Chad Kayanne Hilson, Shawn Smith, Melanie Johnny Giddens, Gayla Smith, and Scott Smith; 8 beloved grandchildren, Brandon Sanders, Michael Smith, Hunter Golden, Cole Hilson, Cade Smith, Wyatt Golden, Zoey Smith, and Madison "Maddie" Golden; his brother, Larry Jean Hilson; his sister, Susan Kornegay; nieces and nephews, Daphne and Chris Lingo, Ashley and Dennis Ezell, Leah and Craig Bullock, and Steven and Brandy Hilson; his close friends, Rex Davis, Mike Bice, Doug Simmons, Billy Moore, Stanley Nowell, Bobby Clemmons, and Terry and Margie; his very special pet, Buddy also survives.