Billy Jess Messer

1957—2022

Billy Jess Messer, 64, of Newark, Ohio, passed away Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022, at his home.

Born Nov. 17, 1957, in Kermit, W.Va., he was the son of the late Archie and Myrtle Parsley Messer.

Billy Jess was known for his fun personality, always laughing despite life’s challenges. He was a selfless person with a large heart for family, friends and even strangers.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters.

Survivors include his loving wife Barb, whom he shared over 42 years with; one daughter, Veronica Messer; three sons, James (Julie) Gardner, Chuck (Mindy) Ross and Adam Taylor; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; five sisters; one brother; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022, at Walnut Grove Church of Christ, Kermit, W.Va., with Bruce Justice officiating. He was laid to rest at Perry Point Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of the Callaham Funeral Home, Inez.