Billy Irvin Cone Sr.

Billy Irvin Cone Sr., a proud veteran and beloved family man, passed away on June 22, 2024, at the age of 72. Born on March 8, 1952, in Lake Wales, FL, Billy was the son of the late Lester E. Cone and Mattie Ruth (Copeland) Cone.

Billy served his country with honor as a member of the US Marine Corps, completing one tours of duty in Vietnam. His bravery and dedication earned him both the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. Following his military service, he continued to support his fellow veterans as the Post Commander of Lake Wales VFW Post 2420.

Outside of his service, Billy enjoyed square dancing, fishing, and horseback riding. His greatest joy, however, was his family. Billy was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who worked tirelessly to provide for his loved ones.

Billy is survived by his son, Billy Irving Cone Jr., and wife Gloria of Brunswick, GA; his adopted son, Cary Bennett, and wife Melissa of Valdosta, GA; his daughter, Angela L. Cone of Valdosta; his grandson, Anthony K. Cone, and wife Cheyanna of Valdosta, GA; and his granddaughter, Cheyenne Cone of Valdosta, GA. He also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Jackson L. and Annaliese M. Cone, both of Valdosta, GA; three step-brothers, Michael Rudy and wife Malinda, and James Rudy, both of Crawfordville, FL, and Travis Cone of Thomasville, GA; two step-sisters, Victoria C. Harry and husband Mark, and Shelia C. Finchum and husband Randy, both of Thomasville, GA; a brother-in-law, Bobby Moore and wife Beate of Chester, MD; two sisters-in-laws, Shirley Lawson and husband Marvin of Annapolis, MD and Dorothy Connley and husband Roger of Kileen, TX, and a cousin, Marie Chambers of Lake Wales, FL. Billy was cherished by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Besides his parents Billy was predeceased by his loving wife, Linda Darnell Moore Cone, his brothers Roger E. Cone and Roy K. Cone, and his sister Betty R. Lowder.

A service to celebrate Billy's life will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, 2024, in the chapel of the Carson McLane Funeral Home with Pastor Wes Hazel officiating. Burial will follow at Riverview Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday morning from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Carson McLane Funeral Home.

Condolences to the family may be conveyed online at www.mclanecares.com

Carson McLane Funeral Home