William John "Big Billy" Byers

Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | November 01, 2023

William John "Big Billy" Byers, 89, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 13, 1934 in Clairton and was the son of the late William James  and Isabele (Bach) Byers. Billy was a US Navy Veteran who served during The Korean War, for his service he was awarded the National Defense Medal, The China Service Medal, United Nations Medal and The Korean Service Medal.  Upon completion of his Naval service, he would go on to work for 32 years as a truck driver for Fox's Grocery.  He enjoyed vegetable gardening, especially cucumbers, tomatoes, corn, green beans, beets and garlic.  He loved camping at his camp in Vacationland in Meadville, PA where he would also go fishing and also enjoyed cruising to Ireland and Alaska. Big Billy was also a member of club VFW. He was a man of many friends and would help anyone in need, anyway he could. Most importantly, he loved his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Janet L. (Finfinger) Byers; daughters, Sharon R. Raczkowski and Kim (John) Echols; a son and daughter-in-law, Melissa Byers; Pappy Bill to grandchildren, Danielle (Chris), Ashley (Mike), Dr. Michael John (Erin), Dana (Mitch), Matthew, Kassidy and Hailey; great-grandchildren, Alyssa, Garrett, Ty, Vander, Milia, Jaxson, Brayden, Addie, Gavin, Stirling, Luca and Gabe; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his daughter, Leslie Byers, who passed away in 1977 and his three sisters.  There is no visitation or services planned.  Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township (412) 751-5000 Drew J Gilbert, Director.  Condolences may be made at GilbertFuneralHomeandCrematory.com

Originally published November 01, 2023.

Other deaths:
"Gloria A. Glagola" || "Robert J. Chomas"