William "Billy" Wiggins Stallings III passed away at home on March 17, 2025, at the age of 85. Known for his ever-present cigars, chewing tobacco, large belt buckles, and signature Stetson cowboy hats, Billy earned the nickname "Cigar" from friends and family. His southern drawl, sharp wit, and distinctive habits made him a memorable figure in the community.

Billy proudly served his country as a maintenance engineer in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Independence and the USS Currituck, demonstrating the same dedication and work ethic that would define the rest of his life. After traveling the globe during his military service, he worked for 30 years with Carolina Telephone as a master craftsman before retiring and transitioning into farm equipment sales for John Deere. Eventually, he found his true calling as a cattle rancher—a role that perfectly suited his love for the land and the great outdoors. Whether he was tending his cattle, hunting, fishing, or simply soaking in the beauty of the farm, Billy was happiest under an open sky, from sunup to sundown.

A man who appreciated life's simple pleasures and a good joke, Billy found joy in riding his lawnmower, keeping his yard in pristine condition, and cooking whole hogs at the Conetoe Barbecue Club. He had a deep love for horses and excelled in the show ring, winning numerous competitions in his younger years. Billy was a lifelong fan of North Carolina Tar Heel basketball and NASCAR and loved debating politics, having served as past chairman of the Edgecombe County Republican Party. He had a keen eye for deals at estate sales and enjoyed haggling with customers at his yard sales. Billy also had a gift for woodworking and welding and could turn the simplest scrap farm materials into whimsical, one-of-a-kind yard art.

Above all, Billy treasured time spent with family and friends, especially during Thanksgiving, his favorite holiday. Each fall, he looked forward to gathering with loved ones to share laughter, stories, and boiled peanuts. His greatest joy was his family. He was a proud husband, father, and grandfather who made sure his loved ones always knew how much they meant to him.

Billy was preceded in death by his father, William Wiggins Stallings, Jr., and his mother, Marie Richardson Stallings. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Joan Sherrod Stallings; his sons, Wayne Stallings (Karen) and Stephen Stallings (Margie); his daughter, Lonna Dew (James); his sister, Joan Marie Stallings; and his cherished grandchildren: Amber Stallings, Lauren Deans (Zachary), Matthew Stallings (Lauren), Alex Lucas (Caleb), Marley Winstead, Jordan Dew, Sarah Stallings, and Hannah Stallings.

Billy will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, laughter, and hard work will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

A memorial service will be held outdoors at his home on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM Eastern Time. Casual dress is welcome. Following the service, a private ceremony for immediate family will take place, where his cremains will be scattered across his cherished Wintergreen farm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in his honor.