Obituary for
Billy Lee Pelham
Billy L. Pelham, died peacefully on November 4, 2016 after a short illness. He is survived by his daughters Denise Pelham Smyth (Paul) of Jupiter, Florida and Dena Pelham Edenfield (Robin) of Dallas, Texas, two grandchildren, Michael Francis Smyth (Amina) of Atlanta, GA, and Andrew Christopher Smyth of Jupiter, FL. He is also survived by his sister, Virginia Arnold (Neil) of Southport, FL and brother Reginald Pelham (Dee) of Columbia, SC. There are also nine nieces and nephews that will all miss their Uncle Bill.
Mr. Pelham, born in Slocomb, Alabama, graduated from Washington County High School, in Chipley, FL, attended Chipola Jr. College and Santa Fe Jr. College, earning an associate degree along the way. Billy also served in the Army, spending most of his active duty in Germany. After the service, he worked for many years at the Washington County News, the Panama City News Herald, and retired from the Gainesville Sun. He called himself a native Floridian, despite the birth in Alabama.
In younger days, he played American Legion Baseball, played on championship softball teams, and was an accomplished tennis player. In later years, he enjoyed his grandchildren, the dog track, fishing at the lake, and the occasional vacation. He moved to Palm Beach County in 2001 to be near family.
A memorial service will be held at Christ Fellowship Church on Saturday, November 12 at 1:00. Internment will be at a later date at the National Veterans Cemetery in Lake Worth.
