Obituary

Billy Gene Sylvest
September 15, 1928 - March 31, 2017


Billy Gene Sylvest, age 88, was received by His Lord and Savior on Friday, March 31, 2017. He was born on September 15, 1928 in Alva, FL and was a member of the Masonic Lodge #101 in Franklinton. Billy was a lifetime devoted member of Bethel Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. After time in the National Guard, he later retired from AT&T in 1986 after 31 years of service. He spent his retirement years as a volunteer with Southern Baptist Disaster Relief, Campers on Mission, the North American Mission Board, and the Red Cross—traveling the US and Canada rebuilding churches, helping people after disasters, and making friends across the nation.
He is survived by: Wife of 63 years – Jeanette Fisher Sylvest, Daughter – Marian Sylvest Porter Son and daughter-in-law – David and Sherry Sylvest, Grandchildren -- Philip (Lindsey) Porter, Lauren (Matt) Farrand, Mitchell Sylvest, and Austin Sylvest, Great grandchild -- Michael FarrandSister -- Freda Welch, Brother -- Lawrence (Nell) Sylvest
He is preceded in death by: Parents – Cluster and Lucille Sylvest, Brothers –Sammie Jay Sylvest and Joe Floyd (Ann) Sylvest, Son-in-law -- Perry Alan Porter
The family will receive friends and family at Crain Funeral Home in Franklinton from 9 to 12 on Tuesday, April 4, with a service at noon and burial at Bethel Baptist Church cemetery. Reverend Joe Kelly and Reverend Paul Watts will officiate.
In Lieu of flowers—please consider a donation to Bethel Baptist Church or the Southern Baptist Convention Disaster Relief.
A special thank you to St. Tammany Parish Hospice, Gladys Ard, and Ramona Creel for their excellent care and guidance.