Billy Green

BILLY GREEN, brother, uncle, partner in life, and beloved friend, joined his creator's glory in the evening on February 19. Born on Feb. 27, 1950, in Little Rock, Ark., Billy was raised in North Little Rock, Ark., and attended North Little Rock High School. Awarded a full college scholarship, he was accepted to Hendrix College in Conway, Ark., where he excelled in the mathematics program and was eager to learn from the Information Technology classes, which were on the forefront in education at the time. His beautiful voice gave light to the remarkable choir at Hendrix. Billy's love of animals, especially dogs, was complemented by his adopted "granny" who groomed and raised poodles, giving him the opportunity to spend his summers helping and learning from the love of the beloved pets. She also was his guide to Sunday services where he developed a lifelong love of Christ and Creator. Upon graduation, Billy proceeded to a career in information technology, which brought him to positions in Dallas, Texas, Santa Clara, Calif., and eventually Little Rock, where he became the data center manager at Baptist Health Medical Center. Billy's gifts of love for others, stewardship and devotion to life were tremendous assets to the healthcare system of Baptist Health. Billy remained active in church life as choir member, pastoral counselor and confidant. All who were fortunate enough to know him in life knew the blessing of immediate warmth and friendship that flowed from him so naturally. After a long and rewarding career with the Baptist Health Medical Center, Billy was diagnosed with heart disease. For the following fourteen years he endured many health hurdles and all the while his beautiful soul continued to shine for others. In 1999, he and his partner in life, Steven Spain, relocated to Dallas, where he continued to enjoy many new journeys, friendships and joys. Dearest Billy, your love and spirit have taught us to live better and you will forever sing in our hearts. Billy was preceded in death by his father and mother, Charles and Vestal Green; his brother, Jimmy Fred Green and his grandmother, Maggie Green. Additionally, beloved pets Snoopy, Joker, Jewels, Jasmine, Sheba, Rene' and little Pepe' have been waiting just over the rainbow bridge to greet him. Billy is survived by his partner in life Steven Spain; precious pet Pierre; sisters, Charley McAfee (husband Mac), Addie Gassman (husband Ronnie), Pat Scruggs (husband Danny); brother, Richard Green (wife Carol) and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great nephews whom he loved unconditionally. To Billy, family was held dear, treasured, and second only to his Creator. He found the greatest warmth in the arms and presence of his beloved mother. Although Billy had no children of his own, he found a way to be a special part of his nieces and nephews lives. He was an impeccable Christian role model for them with a fabulous sense of style. A celebration of his life will be held at First United Methodist Church on JFK Boulevard in North Little Rock on Saturday, March 16 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers or gifts Billy would love to see support or donations given to the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).