Billy Gene Birdsell

Billy Gene “Bill” Birdsell, 82, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, departed this life on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital in Jonesboro.

Bill was born on September 26, 1943, in Jonesboro to the late C.B. and Aline Birdsell. A hardworking man with a strong mechanical mind, he spent much of his life doing what he loved as the owner and operator of B & J Compressor Repair. Through the years, he built lasting relationships with customers and friends who appreciated his knowledge, honesty, and willingness to help others.

Bill found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved tinkering with cars, fishing, cooking and grilling for family and friends, and working on air compressors. He had a special appreciation for antique automobiles and enjoyed attending car shows and admiring classic cars. Above all else, Bill cherished time spent with his family. His greatest pride and joy came from being surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Jackie Birdsell; one son, Timothy Spence; one brother, Bobby Birdsell; and three sisters, Catherine Morris, Carolyn Kiplinger, and Ellen Birdsell.

Survivors include his son, Dallas “Butch” Spence of Jonesboro; three daughters, Regina Marie Spence of Delaware, Ginger Davis (Greg) of Houston, Texas, and Kim Birdsell of Jonesboro; one sister, Hazel Kennedy of Memphis, Tennessee; eleven grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and many lifelong friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Visitation will be held Friday, June 26, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Emerson Funeral Home. A graveside service will immediately follow at Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the NEA Humane Society in Jonesboro, a cause close to their hearts.

Bill will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love of family, his willingness to lend a helping hand, and the countless memories he created with those he loved. His presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished.