Bro. Bill Elliott, lovingly known as Billy Gene Elliott, 85, of Romance, AR, was born on September 24, 1939, in Mabelvale, Arkansas. Surrounded by his beloved family, he peacefully entered the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 25, 2025.

He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion. Cherishing his memory are his devoted wife of 65 years, Irene Elliott; his daughters, Tamara Sanchez (Roy) and Terri Adams (Bryan); and his grandchildren, Michael Sanchez (Cassandra), Carrie Flowers (Johnathan), Stephanie Wortham (Cody), Mark Sanchez, and Rebecca Ward (Jeremy). His joy was multiplied through his great-grandchildren: Hunter and Gracie Sanchez, Kade, Kase, and Kole Wortham, Addy and Aubri Flowers, and Philip and Benjamin Ward. He was also blessed with bonus great-grandchildren who brought him much joy: Nyssa, Azariah, Zebastian, Kathy, and Baby Sissy. He is also survived by his loving sisters, Shirley Cornwell and Sarah Combs. He was preceded in death by his mother, Nell Elliott, and his brother, Gary Elliott.

Bro. Bill delighted in the little things that brought joy to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. When his grandkids were young, he always kept the rooster candy jar full—ready with a sweet treat and a smile. As the family grew, so did his love. He had a special place in his heart for his great-grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them. Whether cheering them on at the county fair as they showed cattle, keeping up with the latest baseball scores, or making sure the pantry was stocked with Little Debbies just for them, he found great joy in being part of their lives. His quiet pride and constant support were felt in every hug, every smile, and every shared moment.

For 64 years, Bro. Bill faithfully served as a Southern Baptist Preacher. His greatest passion was sharing the message of salvation through Jesus Christ with everyone he met. His life was a testament to unwavering faith, compassion, and a deep love for people.

Bro. Bill was also obedient to God’s call to build and grow the Church—both spiritually and physically. Throughout his ministry, he played a vital role in the construction of churches and ministry buildings at many of the congregations he served. Through God’s guidance and under his leadership, several churches flourished, including Holly Springs Baptist Church, Ironton Baptist Church, and Moro Baptist Church. He also helped plant new churches, such as Bingham Road Baptist Church and Floyd Baptist Church, where the seeds of faith continue to grow today.

Outside of his ministry, Bro. Bill found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid deer hunter who cherished time spent in the woods. He also enjoyed tending to his cattle over the years, finding peace and purpose in caring for his land and animals. One of his constant companions was his beloved dog, Jazzy, who brought him comfort and companionship in his later years.

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of faith and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A special thank you to the staff and nurses at Gentiva Hospice for their wonderful care.

Visitation is 12:00 p.m. with funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Valley Baptist Church, Searcy, with burial in Antioch Cemetery, Beebe. Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, 404 W. Dewitt Henry Dr., Beebe, Arkansas. www.smithfamilycares.com/westbrook

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