Billy Joe Tench

Billy Joe Tench, 75, of Gastonia, passed away Wednesday, June 1, 2016, at Caromont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia.

He was born June 11, 1940, in Habersham, GA, son of the late Robert and Blanche Tench.

Billy enjoyed fishing, dirt track racing, watching his grandson play baseball, and spending time with family. He retired from Fiber Controls.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving bride of 40 years, Glenda Tench and sister, Brenda Tench Norris.

Left to cherish his memories are his daughter, Michelle Tench Smith and husband, Jeremy; son, Billy Tench, Jr. and wife, Tracey; grandchildren, Noah Black, Klyi, Libbi, and Jace Smith, Jessica and Leah Tench, Trevor and Averie McCarthy, Brandon, Baleigh, and Brooke Taylor; brothers, Roger Tench, Bobby Tench and wife, Phyllis; special niece, Amy McCarthy and Petie; special companion, Judy Haney; and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held 2pm on Saturday at the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service, 1503 South York Rd., Gastonia. Pastors Larry McAllister and Dennis Bean will be officiating.

The family will receive friends 6-8pm on Friday at the funeral home.

Interment will be held at Westview Gardens Cemetery in Bessemer City.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 4217 Park Place Ct. Glen Allen, VA 23060-9979.

Arrangements are with the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service and Crematorium, Gastonia.