Billy Howard Suthern

Billy Howard Suthern, 83, of Lepanto, Arkansas, formerly of Dyess, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 26, 2026, in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

Billy was born on October 23, 1942, to Richard Posey Suthern and Virginia Turner Suthern. He was raised in Dyess, Arkansas, where he would later raise his own family.

Billy was a faithful pastor for 45 years, dedicating much of his life to serving God and the people he loved. His faith was an important part of who he was, and his love for music was just as deeply rooted. Throughout the years, Billy traveled and played guitar with various singing groups and shared his musical gifts at his home church. Music and ministry were woven throughout so much of his life.

Outside of his work in the church, Billy enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved watching westerns and basketball, but above all, he loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and brother who leaves behind a legacy of faith, music, hard work, and love.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 63 years, Earlene Suthern; his daughter, Tiffany Kimbrough; his brothers, Burvis “Pete” Suthern Sr. and Frankie Suthern; and his sisters, Bettye Olive, Imogene Mueller, and Sue Simpson.

He is survived by his daughters, Rhonda Suthern of Dyess, Arkansas and Billie Ann Burt (Mark) of Lepanto, Arkansas; his son-in-law, Freddy Kimbrough of Blytheville, Arkansas; his grandchildren, Kerrie Burt, Kaitlyn Burt, Taylor Ashley, Richard Burt (Jammye), and Adam (Morgan), LeAnna (Fernando) Murillo, Ashleigh (Khalil) Williams, Kamyn Burt, Fred Kimbrough, and Caleah Kimbrough; and his great-grandchildren, Adalene, Dakota, Raylee, Seth, Avery, Kadence, Ramsey, Lillianna, Isabella, Carlyn, Keaton, Willie, Everett, and Alden; and his sister, Maxine Wooten of Portage, Michigan. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and all those whose lives he touched throughout his many years of ministry.

Billy’s life was one of faith, music, family, and service. His presence will be deeply missed, but the love he gave, the music he shared, and the faith he lived will continue through the many lives he touched.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Delancey Funeral Home in Lepanto, Arkansas. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. and continue until service time.

Burial will follow at Bassett Cemetery in Bassett, Arkansas.

Arrangements are under the care of Delancey Funeral Home in Lepanto, Arkansas.