Billy Joe Hensley II

Billy Joe Hensley II, passed away on May 1, 2024, in Bettie, Texas. He was born on November 20, 1947, in Prague, Oklahoma to Billy Joe Hensley and Hazel (Burns) Hensley.

During his remarkable life, Billy Joe wore many hats and touched the lives of those around him in various ways. He dedicated himself to service as a teacher in Louisiana and Texas, including Big Sandy and Gilmer ISD, also served as a police officer in Oklahoma, and as a highly decorated pilot in Vietnam and back home.  His commitment to these professions showcased his unwavering dedication to helping others and making a difference in his community.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Billy Joe also proudly served in the US Army as a member of the 101st Airborne at the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 2. His dedication embodying the values of duty and honor. His bravery and selflessness in the military mirrored the way he lived his entire life—with courage and integrity. His military accomplishments included National Defense Service medal, Army Aviator Badge, Vietnam Service and Campaign medal, Army Commendation medal, Air medal with 12 leaf clusters (one for valor) and the Bronze Star medal. He was a member of and also a Past Master of the Franklin Masonic Lodge No. 57 AF & AM in Franklin, LA. The bonds he formed within this community were cherished by him and added another layer of richness to his life.

Billy Joe will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of service, kindness, and strength that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Carolyn Dianne Kerby; brother-in-law, James Edgar Kerby; son, Christopher Samuel Williams. 

Those left to cherish his memories are his wife, Suzanne (Senette) Hensley of Bettie; son, Billy Joe Hensley III and his wife Tresley of Adair; daughters, Hazel Elise (Hensley) Hammett and her husband Charles of Gilmer and Joey Suzanne Williams of Tulsa; brother, Daniel Thomas Hensley and his wife Amanda of Lampasas; 4 grandchildren, Billy Joe Hensley IV, Ella Vahn Hensley, Hensley Jade Hammett and Hadley Elise Hammett and many nieces and nephews. 

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Billy Joe Hensley II will be held on May 18, 2024, at Croley Funeral Home in Gilmer, Texas. The service will begin at 2:00 PM.