Billy Gene Messer, Sr., 67, of Lexington, passed away Wednesday, August 7, 2024.

Born January 31, 1957 in Hazard, Kentucky to the late Jack & Ella Mae McCray Messer, he was a self-employed painting contractor for  more than 20 years and took great pride in his work. Billy loved to travel and had the distinction of walking in every state in the continental U.S. He was an enthusiastic fan of U.K. sports and a skilled pool shark. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren.

Surviving are his longtime companion, Lan Walling of Lexington; 2 sons, Kyle William Messer (Melissa McGrandy) of Hale, Michigan & Billy Gene (Ashley) Messer, Jr. of Newton, Texas; Lan's children, Hung Walling & Mylee Blythe; 6 brothers: Lenny, Thomas, Shane & Dean Messer and Bo & Donnie McCray; a sister, Phyllis Feltner; and 10 grandchildren: Sawyer, Gavin, Ava & Georgia Messer, Grant, Izabela, Austen, Jack & Petten Walling and Lily Blythe.

Also preceding him in death were 2 sisters, Carol Elson & Tina Griggs.

In accordance with his wishes, Billy will be cremated and his remains spread on his parents' graves in Hazard.