Terry Gayle Billings, 78, of Fayetteville, Tennessee, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, at Elk River Health and Nursing Center of Ardmore. He was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on April 30, 1946, to the late Gordon Gilbert and Mildred King Billings.

Terry was a 1964 graduate of Blanche High School. After high school he served in the United States Air Force. He obtained an associate degree from Motlow State Community College and attended Middle Tennessee State University. Terry taught for a year at Eight District School, after which he realized teaching was not his calling. However, he served on the Lincoln County School Board. Terry farmed and retired from Copperweld. He was a member of the Harms Methodist Church.

Terry, affectionately known as Pappy by his family and friends, didn’t know a stranger. He would strike up a conversation with anyone. Pappy loved to visit flea markets and yard sales, he couldn’t resist a good bargain or the chance to haggle. He enjoyed finding obscure artists’ 45 records and learning about them. He was a rebel in his later years, growing a ponytail and getting tattoo sleeves on both arms. These “rebellious acts” didn’t stop kids from thinking he was Santa Claus with his white hair and beard and his infectious smile.

Terry is survived by his wife of 56 years, Suzanne McNatt Billings; children, John Eric Billings and Terri Leigh (Joe) Harper; grandchildren, Nalanie Harper, Enola Harper, Jayde Billings, and Brody Billings; brother, Ted Billings; nephews, Tim, Brandon, Brian (deceased), and Cain Billings.

At Terry’s request there will be no services.

Lynchburg Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.