Billy Ray Ashley September 17, 1941 - June 3, 2023

Billy Ray Ashley, age 81, of Anderson, South Carolina, went to be with the Lord Saturday night, June 3, 2023 at Anmed Health. Born September 17, 1941 in Abbeville, SC,  he was the son of the late Johnny Ashley and Sadie Burnette.

Billy is survived by his loving wife Dolores Ashley of 60 years, devoted children Ronda (Jody) Jones, Neal Ashley, Kimberly (Chad) Seagraves, his brother Kenneth Ashley, four beautiful granddaughters he adored: Courtney, Lauren, Rylee, and Emily Ashley and many loving nieces, nephews and extended family.

Billy and his wife, Dolores, met while working together at Belton Blanket Factory. It was love at first sight and their many wonderful qualities drew them towards each other and they married in January of 1963. He was a faithful, loving husband for 60 years. Like many in their generation, there were setbacks and struggles along the way but they endured never leaving each other’s side. Their family grew with the addition of their three children, Ronda, Neal, and Kim.

Billy retired from Anderson County after 25 years of service in his mid 50’s. He enjoyed spending his free time after retirement buying and renovating houses, restoring cars, cooking delicious food for those he loved, and helping out his family regardless of the need. He loved going to the beach with all his loved ones and enjoyed finding seashells on the beach. He loved spreading Christmas joy for his grandchildren and for others by extravagantly decorating his house. He was a loving, stern, selfless husband and father that made many sacrifices for his family. His wife, children, and grandchildren brought him the greatest joy and he loved them all more than words can adequately describe.

Billy will be greatly missed by his family and by all who knew him, but we celebrate his life and will continue to do so knowing he is now in a better place without suffering.

The family will receive friends at Sosebee Mortuary, 3219 South Main St, Anderson, SC 29624 from 11:30-1 pm on Thursday, June 8, 2023. There will be a brief ceremony to follow in the chapel.

The Sosebee Mortuary and Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements.