Willie "Billy" Leon Floyd, Jr. age 73, of Rose Hill, left this life on earth for his eternal rest on Tuesday, June 14, 2011 from his residence.

He was born October 15, 1937 in Cornwall, New York and was the son of the late Willie Leon Floyd, Sr. and Evelyn Drumheller Johnson. He was predeceased by his wife of 29 years, Ruby Sanderson Floyd and his brother, Norman Floyd.

Mr. Floyd was a member of Rose Hill Baptist Church.

Leaving behind to cherish his memories are his loving children, Lisa Michelle Dillon and husband, James of Wilmington, Laura Denise Taylor and husband, Robert Wade of Rose Hill, Tonya Leigh Smith of Fayetteville and Christopher Darwin Floyd and wife, Catherine of Rose Hill; grandchildren, Michael Taylor, Joshua Taylor, Amber Floyd, Hattie Floyd, Elliott Smith, Schuyler Floyd and Christopher Floyd, Jr.; two great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Fannie Floyd of Rose Hill and close personal friend, Inez Baker of Teachey.

Funeral service will be 2:00 pm Friday, June 17, 2011 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel with the Reverend Bruce Herrmann officiating.

Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park in Watha.

Casketbearers will be Michael Taylor, Joshua Taylor, Lloyd Wells, Thomas Smith, James Dillon and Elliott Smith.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm Thursday, June 16, 2011 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home in Wallace.

"Billy" or "Rocket", as he was affectionately called, was a loving father and grandfather who loved his family dearly. With an outgoing personality, a wonderful sense of humor and a genuine love for people, he never met a stranger. Billy was proud of his German heritage and was fascinated with World War II. A lover of politics, he was a dedicated, proud Republican and would let you know where he stood. Billy was a very educated and intelligent man who spent many years educating himself in different areas. He enjoyed teaching and always took time to explain and teach his children things he wanted them to learn in life. Billy was a man tall in stature but gentle in nature. His warmth and loving spirit greatly impressed everyone he met. Billy was loved by many and will surely be missed but his legacy will continue to live in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Memorial gifts may be sent to American Cancer Society, 930-B Wellness Drive, Greenville, NC 27834.

Condolences may be sent to the family below.