Mr. Billy Ray McLaurin Sr.

November 30, 1949 - June 3, 2020

Mr. Billy Ray McLaurin, Sr. was born to the late Rob Watts and Vicie Lee (Rankin) McLaurin on November 30, 1949 in Brandon, MS. Billy Ray was the youngest of 4 children and is preceded in death by brothers; J. W. McCollum and Rob McLaurin and sister Margie Jolley. Billy Ray joined Rock Star Missionary Baptist Church at an early age. He graduated from Carter High School in 1968. While at Carter High School, he played basketball and according to him, every time he was at the goal to shoot his Dad would yell 1 -2 which is how he got his nickname. His nickname has lasted him a lifetime from the basketball courts to the softball fields with the legendary Royals. Billy Ray continued his education at Jackson State University and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree. While at JSU, he became a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. He was employed by the Mississippi State Hospital for over 30 years as a social worker. During his tenure, he trained and assisted numerous fellow social work ers. He helped to form and coach the Mississippi State Hospital female softball team. When Billy Ray wasn't playing softball, he was refereeing softball and basketball games. He was an active member of Rock Star Missionary Baptist Church where he served in different capacities: Sunday School Superintendent, Member of the Male Choir, Treasurer and Va cation Bible School Assistant. Billy Ray leaves to cherish his memories his wife of 15 years, Linda McLaurin; three sons: Alonzo Dale (Josette) of Houston, TX, Billy Ray McLaurin, Jr. and Nathan McLaurin (Adonya) of Brandon, MS, one step-son, Cedric Luckett, one step-daughter Demetrice (Derek) May, a special niece Lauretha (Thomas) Bellinder, 7 grandchildren (Alanna, Ad dison, Jordan, Nathan, Alonzo, Jamari, and Ladarius), Sister in Laws, Ana McCollum and Carrie Ware; Brother in Law, James Myers; a special cousin, Charles Fletcher, devoted friend, M.J. Myles and host of other relatives and friends that loved him deeply.