William "Billy" Franklin Burney gained his heavenly wings at home on Friday, January 3, 2025. Billy was born to Claude and Verna Burney in the St. John's community in North Carolina on May 10, 1942. Billy graduated from Grifton High School and was then drafted into the US Army. After serving in the Army, Billy moved to Hampton, VA and graduated from The Apprentice School in Newport News. Thru the years, he worked for Newport News and Norfolk Shipyards. Billy also owned and operated a feed and seed store in Grafton, VA.

Some of Billy's favorite past times were farming, serving the Lord, listening to music and spending time with friends and family. He farmed land on Topping Lane for years. In recent years, he sold plants, vegetables and eggs at his home. Billy had a generous spirit and often shared his produce and eggs. Billy attended All Generations Church in Newport News.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents; a sister Patricia Tripp (Burt); and a brother Tommy Burney (Montez).  He is survived by nieces and nephews Susan Tripp of Ayden, NC, Tony Tripp (Gina) of Winterville, NC, Rebecca Vanover (John) of DuPont, IL, Mary Ellen Burney (Jason Wingate) of Ayden, NC and Tommy Burney II of Ayden, NC and many great nieces and nephews. Also, special cousins Danny Dudley (Anahid) of Hampton, VA, Anne Harmon (Gene) of Newport News, VA and Ellen Dudley of Seaford, VA. A special thanks to Emily Vernakes for all of your care and medical guidance.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025 at 11:00 at All Generations Church, 28 Harpersville Rd Newport News, VA 23601.

Memorials May be made to All Generations Church or samaritanspurse.org.