Billy Ray Linker

Obituary: China Grove-Billy Ray Linker, 85, passed away Sunday, December 11, 2016 at Novant Health Rowan Medical Center. Born May 3, 1931 in Rowan County, he was a son of the late Paul Seif Linker and Mary Elizabeth Roseman Linker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 14 siblings. Bill joined the army in 1949 and honorably served his country during the Korean War, where he was a Sgt. 1st Class tank supervisor. Following his military service, Mr. Linker worked for Akers and Roadway as a truck driver. A loyal member of Unity United Methodist Church, he was a Unity's Come Along Seniors Group. Bill was also a devoted member and past master of the Allen Graham Masonic Lodge, VFW 8989 and Oasis Shiners member. Family members left with loving memories include his wife of 62 years, Mary "Betty" Rogers Linker; his sons Rocky Linker and Ricky Linker (Faye); his foster daughter Tiffany Hayes and her children Kris and Kori; numerous nieces and nephews also survive. The family will receive friends Saturday, December 17th from 12:30 - 2:00 pm at Whitley's Funeral Home. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 pm in the funeral home chapel, conducted by the Revs. Tim Whittington and Carl Settles. Burial will follow at Carolina Memorial Park, with Masonic rites. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Unity UMC, 8506 Unity Church Rd., Kannapolis, NC 28081.
Visitation: 12:30-2:00 pm Saturday December 17, 2016 Whitley's Funeral Home

Service: 2:00 pm Saturday Whitley's Funeral Home Chapel

Interment: Carolina Memorial Park Kannapolis, NC