Billy Ray Eastep peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home on May 27, 2026, surrounded by friends and family. Billy was born to Tut and Roberta Shelton Eastep on May 18, 1952 and grew up in Arab, Alabama.

From a very early age, Billy showed a talent for golf which carried him throughout his life. He spent his 50-year career as a PGA Teaching Professional and taught thousands of people to enjoy and appreciate the game. One of Billy’s unique gifts was his ability to observe a golf swing and very quickly diagnose any problems. He was also, more often than not, able to correct that problem.

Billy was predeceased by his parents, Tut and Roberta, and his sister, Kay Eastep Mardis. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Becky Robertson Eastep; children Thad Eastep (My-Hanh) of Phoenix, AZ, Jodie Sproul (Marc) of Nashville, TN, and Chris Campbell (Joni) of Seattle and Walla Walla, WA. Especially precious to Billy were his grandchildren, Billy Le Eastep, Braden Ellis Eastep, and Chloe Faith Jones. Because of his love for his grandchildren, one of his favorite phrases to hear was “Let’s go play, Popi!”. Other survivors are his niece Jennifer Mardis King (Ty), children Kayleigh and Lawson and nephew Jeff Mardis (Michelle), children Anna Mardis Farquhar (Garrett) and Mallory Mardis.

A special thank you goes to Billy’s wonderful caregivers who took such good care of him through the past years and months: Kirsten Kaetz, Donna McCutcheon, Anna Hester, and Sue Eshenour. They gave their all and nothing was too hard for them in his caregiving.

Thanks also goes to the Parkinson’s Foundation and Hospice of North, AL for their support throughout Billy’s illness. Contributions to these organizations are appreciated if you so choose.

Funeral Arrangements are being handled by Berry Hill Funeral Home. Visitation will be Tuesday June 2, 5pm-7pm. Funeral Service will be Wednesday, June 3, 11am. Burial will be at Arab Cemetery following the funeral service.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants. Psalm 116:15