Billy Ray Dickerson, 78, of Pekin, IL, passed away in the emergency room of Carle Health Medodist Medical Center in Peoria, IL, at 1:50 p.m. on Sunday, September 10, 2023.

He was born on January 1, 1945, in Meridian, MS, the son of Lester and Eleanor Dickerson. Surviving are his children Billy Ray (Lynn) Dickerson Jr., Janice (Tracey) Lewis, Joe (Gina) Lockwood, whom Billy raised; Josh Dickerson, Jake Dickerson, and Jared (Holly) Dickerson—also surviving 23 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, two brothers, Doug Dickerson and Buddy Joe Dickerson. His parents, two brothers, James and Robert Dickerson, and four sisters, Mary Ann Maggart, Doris Moore, Joyce Harpen, and Barbara Moore, preceded him in death.

Billy was in the auto industry for over 60 years and was a bouncer in East Peoria nightclubs.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A private family burial will be held at a later date. Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services, Peoria, assists the family with arrangements. To share a memory or send a condolence to his family, visit www.peoriafuneral.com.