Billy "Bill" Lewis Tyson, 72, of Powhatan, Arkansas, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family after a brief battle with kidney cancer.

Bill was born on October 9,1952 in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, to Billy Joe and Armilda Tyson. On June 5, 1971, he married the love of his life, Linda Robert's, with whom he shared 53 beautiful years. Together, they raised four children: Amy, Billy, Lacy, and Kacy. Bill proudly served in the United States National Guard during his younger years. He was a dedicated husband, father, Poppa and best friend. Bill's professional life reflected his natural talent as a skilled heavy equipment operator, a role that brought him great satisfaction and eventually sparked his passion for collecting heavy equipment replicas. Over the years, he also worked as a truck driver. Outside of work, Bill enjoyed the outdoors, particularly camping and fishing. However, his greatest joy in life was his family. He cherished every moment spent with them; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were especially dear to him. His grandson Jett Lewis often delighted him with their shared plans and adventures.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, Billy Joe Tyson; his sister, Beth McEntire Bess; and his niece, Valerie.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda, of the home; his four children: Amy Ellis (Ray) of Hoxie, Billy Tyson (Jenny) of Powhatan, Lacy Slusser of Powhatan, and Kacy Booth of Southaven, Mississippi; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his mother, Armilda Tyson; one brother, Johnny Tyson; two sisters, Retha Taffar and Mitzi Kieffner; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024 at Cox Funeral Home in Walnut Ridge, followed by a graveside service at 4:00 p.m. at Powhatan Cemetery in Powhatan.

Pallbearers will be Billy Tyson, Drew Cromeans, Tristan Slusser, Brad Booth, Coty Luther, and Gunner Russell. Honorary pallbearers include Jett Slusser, Brandon Clark, Jackson Clayton, and Ray Ellis.

Bill's memory will live on through the legacy of love and dedication he leaves behind.