Jacksonville – Billy Jackson Lanier, 80, of Jacksonville, North Carolina passed away on July 22, 2026, at his residence. Memorial services will be held at Jones Funeral Home, Jacksonville Chapel on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Burial will immediately follow at Hicks Run Cemetery.

Mr. Lanier was born on February 21, 1946, in Lenior County, North Carolina to the late Jack Lanier and Pauline Raynor Lanier. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judith Lanier and daughter, Jennifer Rochelle.

He is survived by his children, Deborah Sinclair (David), Eddie Rochelle, and Denise Lanier Norris; brother, Benny Lanier (Cyndi); sister, Lola Lanier; grandchildren, Rawlin Sinclair, Reece Sinclair, Hargett Rochelle, Colby Rochelle, Curtis Arant, and Lydia Arant; special family and friends, Caroline Rochelle, Tom Rice, and Toby Thomas; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:00 AM.