Mr. Billy E. Barkley Sr., 97, of Syracuse, NY, born March 5, 1929, in Leary, GA, passed away July 18, 2026. He was a U.S. Army veteran (WWII and Korean War).
He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Jones Barkley; sister, Sara Barnett; and brothers, Phil and C.B. Barkley.

He is survived by his children, Billy (Reba) Barkley Jr., Saralyn Barkley, Mary Barkley, Willie (Carolyn) Barkley, Cynthia Barkley Daniels, Timothy (Patrice) Barkley, Ola Phillips, Ron Williams, Chester (Jeannette) Williams, Emma Williams Kirtley, Rufus Williams, David (Helen) Williams, and Robert Williams; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; and his best friend, Worthy “Rabbit” Graham.

A memorial service will be held by his devoted church family on Thursday, July 30, 5:00–7:00 PM, at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 241 West Lafeyette Ave, Syracuse, NY 13205. Flowers welcome and may be sent to the church at the above address.

A funeral service and burial will occur on August 8, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Bethel CME Church in Leary, GA. 

Flowers are welcome and may be sent to Westover Funeral Directors, 515 N. Westover Blvd Suite E, Albany, GA 31707.