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Billy Joe Campbell, 87, of Oak Ridge, passed away Friday, October 30, 2020, at his home.
He was born June 28, 1933 in Hampton, Tenn., the son of Joe Hill and Ethel O. Campbell and was a long-time member of Union Baptist Church in Hampton. He also enjoyed attending Central Baptist Church alongside his wife, Nina Jean.
Mr. Campbell graduated from E. TN State University with a Bachelor of Science degree. He served his country from 1953-1955 with the U.S. Army.
Billy Joe Campbell was loved and respected by his family, friends, and the community. He was an accomplished musician and loved playing his guitar. He shared his love of music in a multitude of ways. He played his guitar for community events, celebrations, weddings, funerals and whenever requested for gatherings of family and friends. He recorded a CD of his favorite selections over the years and freely gave copies so others could enjoy his music. His Chet Atkins style of pickin’ was one of a kind.
He enjoyed farming, fishing and hunting. He loved spending time outdoors, gardening at the farm and working at the Farmer’s Market. He enjoyed sharing with produce alongside buddies Rice Cross (deceased) and Don Long at The Oak Ridge Farmer’s Market every Saturday. Spending time with his family and his friends brought him great joy. All who knew Billy Joe held him in high esteem. He loved to socialize with people from all walks of life. His genuine smile, warm embrace and jokes were his trademark characteristics which will be missed. He enjoyed living and made the most of each day. “Today is Mine” was one of his many favorite songs.
He served on the Member’s First Credit Union Board of Directors for many years. He was also an active member of the Elks Lodge #1684 and retired from the Department of Energy where he was a chemical engineer.
He was preceded in death just 12 days ago by his wife, Nina Jean Campbell, and brother, Howard McGinnis, in earlier years.
He is survived by his son, Billy J. Campbell Jr. and wife Leslie of Kennesaw, Ga.; daughter, Rita Elwood and husband Robert of Oak Ridge; sister, Ruby Nidiffer of Elizabethton; and five grandchildren, Reid, Rebecca and Rhett Elwood and Cameron and Parker Campbell. Always the proud father and grandfather, he was often seen attending his children and grandchildren’s sporting events with great pride. He was always their number 1 fan.
The family wishes to express a very special thank you to caretaker, Kelli Randall Eldridge, of Oak Ridge, who took such special care of both of their parents.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, November 4, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Weatherford Mortuary. The funeral will follow at 7 p.m. with his nephew, Rev. Mike Wilson, officiating. Family and friends will meet for a graveside service on Thursday at 10 a.m. at Oak Ridge Memorial Park, where military honors will be led by the Tennessee National Guard Honors team. Memorials in his memory can be made to the Oak Ridge Boys Club or to Central Baptist Church of Oak Ridge. An online guestbook can be signed at www.weatherfordmortuary.com.