Billy Ray Blanset

Billy Ray Blanset, age 65, passed away on December 24, 2025. He was born on February 7, 1960, in Birmingham, Alabama, and lived his life boldly, faithfully, and with a personality that could not be ignored. Bill proudly served in the United States Army from 1978-1987 and again from 1990-1994, later continuing his dedication through service in the Army Reserves from 1994-1997. Bill achieved rank of Sergeant during his military career. Bill was a dedicated patriot who served in Operation Desert Storm, receiving a Bronze Star Medal for heroism in combat action against hostile enemy forces on February 15, 1991, while in Iraq. Bill was a proud Christian man who loved the Lord with his whole heart and never hesitated to talk to anyone who would listen about the God he served. Whether he was driving the church bus on Wednesday nights to pick up children, singing loudly and joyfully in the praise and worship band, or simply striking up conversations wherever he went, Bill lived his faith out loud. A Blanset through and through, Bill was known for his strong will and quick temper in his younger years—traits that softened with time and grew into a deep, fierce love for his family. As he aged, he became the kind of man who would do absolutely anything for the people he loved. He was loyal, protective, and endlessly devoted to his family. Bill had a playful, goofy side that shined brightest around those closest to him. He loved making people laugh, even if it meant making himself look silly. His humor, expressions, and larger-than-life presence filled every room he walked into. You always knew when Bill was around. Among his hobbies, Bill enjoyed collecting coins—sometimes more enthusiastically than responsibly—and spoiling his beloved cat, Ava, with endless love and treats. He is survived by his loving wife, Robin Blanset; his children: Nick Blanset; Daniel Blanset and wife Brittany, and their children Luke and Caroline; Isabella Graner and husband Andrew, and their children Macey, Peter, Aurora, and Scarlet; Maria Tesseneer and husband Dan, and their children Ian and Sophia. He is also survived by his stepsons: Jacob Baxley and wife Tori, and their daughter River Kate; Justin Baxley and wife Lacey, and their twins Lakelynn and Liam. Bill is further survived by his sisters Gloria Dailey, Linda Montgomery, and Kay Wallace; his brothers James Blanset and Ricky Blanset; and his many beloved nieces and nephews: Joey, Michelle, Kim, Chris, Delinda, Chad, Taylor, Kory, Rhonda, Clayton, and Elizabeth. Bill is preceded in death by his parents: Arlet Blanset and Louise Taft, his brothers: Stephen Blanset, and Dewey Blanset, his sister Brenda Furman, and his son Billy Blanset Jr. Bill’s faith, humor, fierce love, and unmistakable presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. While our hearts are broken, we rejoice knowing he is now home with the Lord he loved and served so faithfully. Service Details: Visitation will be held on Friday, January 2, from 9:00–10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at Deerfoot Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will take place at 1:00 p.m. at Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo In lieu of flowers, the family request a donation be made to the First Baptist Church of Pinson or to their student ministries division.

Billy Ray Blanset

February 7, 1960 - December 24, 2025