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Billy Olan Rucks, Beloved Father, Grandfather, and Friend, Passes Away at 86

Hanceville, AL – Billy Olan Rucks, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on July 23, 2024 in Hanceville, Alabama. He was 86 years old.

Born on April 14, 1938 in Blount County, Alabama to the late William and Molly Nobinger-Rucks, Billy was a lifelong resident of Hanceville. He attended Hanceville High School, where he was a member of the 1955 Championship football team.

After graduating from high school, Billy went to work for Southern Natural Gas, where he worked for 35 years before retiring. He was also a proud member of the Masons.

Billy was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved spending time with his family, fishing, and traveling.

Billy is survived by his daughter, Lacey (Douglas Clark) Wilson; grandson, Jonathan Taylor Wilson; sister, Fifa Jo Harris; sisters-in-law, Judy Lockard-Goldsmith and her husband, John and Melba Rucks; and a host of many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Rucks was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Faye Lockard-Rucks; siblings, Murl Rucks, Louise (Bill) Whitt, Lorene (Joe) Bachmuth, Faye Rucks and W.C. Rucks; and brother-in-law, Harold Harris.

Funeral services for Billy Olan Rucks will be held at 2 p.m. on July 26th at Hanceville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow the service at Shanghi Cemetery in Walker County. Bro. Rick Davis will be officiating services. The family will welcome friends for visitation on Friday at Hanceville Funeral Home from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Tributes to Billy Olan Rucks

“Billy was a wonderful man who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He always had a smile on his face and a kind word to say. He will be forever in our hearts.” – Lacey Wilson, daughter

“Billy was a great friend and teammate. He was always there for me, both on and off the field. I will always cherish the memories we shared together.” – John Goldsmith, friend and teammate

“Billy was a true Southern gentleman. He was kind, compassionate, and always willing to help others. He will be truly missed.” – Judy Goldsmith, sister-in-law

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