Billy D. Saxton

Born February 5, 1942 in Bentonia, MS and gained his heavenly wings and entered paradise on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Hospice Care in Gulfport, MS. He is survived by his wife Cindy Saxton of Gulfport, MS who lovingly and selflessly cared for him during his long goodbye. He is survived by four children, Duane Saxton of Gulfport, MS, Cindy (Norman) Woodard of McKinney, TX, Darrell (Laura) Saxton of Merigold, MS, Kelly Whitesell of McKinney, TX; six grandchildren, Lincoln (Kelly) Fryer of Benoit, MS, Lauren Saxton of Merigold, MS, Ashlyn Ross of McKinney, TX, Jenna Ross of McKinney, TX, Reese Whitesell of McKinney, TX, Jacob Woodard of McKinney, TX; and one great grandchild, Willow Saxton of Merigold, MS. He is also survived by one sister, Dorothy Ashley of Yazoo City, MS; one extra special friend, Chuck Lopez of Gulfport, MS and countless extended family. He was preceded in death by his father, Claiborne Saxton of Gulfport, MS; his mother, Josephine Saxton of Yazoo City, MS; and siblings, CB Saxton of Omaha, NE, Travis Saxton of New Orleans, LA, Nola Saxton Hyde of Gulfport, MS, Claiborne Saxton Jr. of Saucier, MS. Mr. Saxton graduated from Bentonia High School in 1960 and began his career with the Yazoo City Fire Department where he remained until transferring to the Gulfport Fire Department in 1965. Eventually transitioning into law enforcement, he served the people of Gulfport for 33 years as a member of the Gulfport Police Department and Harrison County Sheriff’s Department. He was nominated Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer several times during his career and was awarded the title of Outstanding Young Man of America in 1978 at the age of 36. He retired with the distinguished rank of lieutenant from the Gulfport Police Department. Billy was a strong, loving man of great faith. He always cared about others and would often go out of his way to help those in need. He loved his family tremendously and was the rock of our foundation. Known as “Poppy” to many, Billy MY MAN, the patriarch of our family was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to all who knew him. He will surely be missed. “HEY BOY, love you more. I did it my way.” Your family will always love and miss you. Rest high upon that mountain. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, December 9, 2023, at Trinity Funeral Services in McHenry from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM.