Billy Wayne Goatcher

Billy Wayne Goatcher, 82, of Jonesboro, formerly of Bakersfield, CA, passed away on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at his home with his family by his side. He was born on August 8, 1941, in Caddo, OK, to the late Uyless and Lucille Goatcher. Billy moved to Jonesboro in 2005 from Bakersfield, CA, and became a member of the New Antioch Baptist Church in Brookland, AR.

Billy honorably served his country in the United States Army. He had a distinguished career as a firefighter and arson investigator for the city of Bakersfield and also worked for the Bishop Police Department in California. He enjoyed horseback riding, golfing, and fishing.

In addition to his parents, Billy was preceded in death by his loving wife of 54 years, Karen Goatcher, and his sister, Dorothy Lavoy.

He is survived by his son, Michael (Christina) Goatcher of Jonesboro; his daughter, Martha (Donald) Jones of Paragould; his sisters, Frances Brannan and Ann (David) Kardian, both of Rosemond, CA; five grandchildren, Nickolas (Stephanie) Frazier, Aaron (Krystal) Jones, Mathew (Edge) Jones, Joshua Goatcher, and Brittni Jones; and four great-grandchildren, Nick Frazier Jr., Briley Frazier, Billy Frazier, and Deacon Jones.

A celebration of Billy's life will be held at a later date. For those who wish to make lasting memorials, the family kindly requests donations to the National Cancer Society.