Billy Finger

Born on November 2, 1941, in the humble town of Louisville, Tennessee, Billy Ray Finger's life was a melody crafted with determination and a lot of country soul.

Billy's love for the guitar began at the tender age of nine, when he strummed his first chord and began a life-long serenade with music. His passion drove him to cut a record that received air time—an achievement many musicians only dream of. Two songs written by Billy, “Blue Memories Never Die” and “Early Morning Blues”, were a testament to his talent, echoing through the radio waves and touching the lives of those who heard it.

Billy's biggest joy was sharing this musical journey with his son, Billy Curtis, and their band " Country Boys Band." Together, they played countless tunes, singing their hearts out and leaving audiences smiling.

While music was a paramount aspect of his life, Billy was also known for his skilled craftsmanship. He spent years as a dedicated machinist at Robert Shaw Controls, where his precision and meticulous nature shone brightly. After his retirement, he turned his handyman passions into art, becoming a skilled gunsmith and crafting beautifully intricate guitars. Fishing, woodworking, playing guitar and singing were his forms of meditation—endeavors that kept his hands busy and heart full.

Billy had a knack for fixing anything you put in front of him. He found joy in woodworking and was an avid fisherman, finding peace in the gentle lapping of water against his boat. His determination and hardworking spirit never wavered, a true testament to his character and life.

He loved the Lord and carried his faith with him closely. His life was a harmonious blend of music and artistry, and he cherished every sung note and every spoken prayer.

Billy leaves behind his wife, Bobbie; daughter, Cindy (Paul) Sielawa; daughter-in-law, Mary Finger; step-daughter, Julie (Tim) Lickliter; step-son, Rick Phillips; grandchildren, Rayna (Kevin) Sherwood, Carol Sielawa, Taylor (Beth) Sielawa, Adam Finger, Kristen (Bryan) Andrews, Byron Finger, Dillia Finger; step-grandchildren, Jared and Thomas McGill, and Brandi Phillips; great-grandchildren, Adalee, Oaklee, Lynlee, Smith, and Brooks; siblings, Ronnie (Pam) Finger, Nancy (Dale) Collins, and Becky (Mike) Van Metre.

He is predeceased by his son, Billy Curtis Finger; his parents, Vola and Mirtie Finger; siblings, Calvin Finger, Vola (Junior) Finger, Catherine Price, Alvin Finger, and Almeda Roberts; nephew, Roy Cooper; step-grandchild, Tora Phillips.

In his final moments, Billy passed peacefully, listening to his cherished old gospel hymns and Christmas music with his daughter, Cindy, by his side, reminding us all of the profound joy faith and family bring.

The family will hold a private memorial service for Billy at a later date tbd. To honor Billy, may we reflect on the words from Romans 8:35, 37-39. These verses remind us of the unwavering connection love and faith provide, assuring us that nothing—not hardship, nor distance, nor passing—can separate us from the love of Christ. May these words bring comfort as we bid farewell to Billy. May his beautiful songs play for our Lord forevermore.