LOUISBURG, NC--William "Billy" Nathaniel Farmer, Jr., 89, of Louisburg, passed away Friday, November 15, 2024 at his home.

He was preceded in death by his life partner, Bill Morrison in 2023, as well as his parents Willie "Red" and Mamie Farmer, his brother, Bernice Ray Farmer, and a nephew David Michael Farmer.

Billy grew up in Wilson, NC, attended Atlantic Christian College (Barton), and continued his studies in music at Chapel Hill, NC State, and Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. He served his country in the NC National Guard. Billy was a big band leader and master jazz pianist. He retired from the Wake County School System as a beloved music teacher and band director. Upon retirement Billy became a celebrated painter of rural NC landscapes as well as historic homes. He had numerous solo shows and was named 2014 Franklin County Artist of the Year. Other passions included genealogy and a deep love for animals.

Billy is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Bobby and Carole Farmer of Wilson; niece (Mandy Farmer Mew), nephews (Robert, John, and Will Farmer), cousins, his beloved pets (Hank, Ivan, Scott, and Puddin), and a multitude of friends.

A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 26 at the family plot at Maplewood Cemetery in Wilson.

In lieu of flowers you may donate in Billy's name to either of these local animal rescues: https://www.pawsforlifenc.org/ or https://www.secondchancenc.org/

Arrangements are by Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, Louisburg, www.stricklandfuneralhome.net.

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