Billy Ray Vance

Billy Ray Vance, 73, of Quinland, West Virginia, was born on February 5, 1952, and went to his eternal resting place on August 29, 2025, after a courageous battle with illness over the past year and a half. He passed peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, and is now at rest—free from pain.

To know Billy was to love him. He was a simple man with a generous soul and a heart as big as the hills he called home. Billy would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need, even if it was his last. Those who knew him best witnessed this kindness and selflessness time and time again throughout his life.

Billy was a retired underground coal miner and a proud, lifelong supporter of the United Mine Workers of America. He carried the values of hard work and loyalty through every chapter of his life.

Above all, Billy was a devoted father and beloved Papaw. In his final year, he found great joy living in South Carolina with his daughter Hannah and spending precious time with his three granddaughters, whom he loved deeply and unconditionally.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Bill Vance and Lucille (Browder) Robertson; his son, Billy Ray Vance Jr.; his brothers, Kendall and Jimmy; and his sister, Coleen.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Hannah, of Lancaster, South Carolina; and his cherished granddaughters, Bethany, Isabella, and Gianna.

Billy also leaves behind a host of dear family and friends. In his final days, he spoke with deep gratitude about the brotherhood he shared with his best friend Phillip Pauley of Quinland, and his brother David Vance of Scott Depot.

Services for Billy will be 2:00 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2025 at Handley Funeral Home in Danville, WV with Steve Burns officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial to follow at Memory Gardens on Low Gap Road in Madison, WV.