Billy James Shirer

Billy James Shirer, 97, of Zanesville, died at 7:39 A.M. on Friday, August 10, 2018, at Genesis Hospice-Morrison House, Zanesville. He was born July 18, 1921, in Zanesville, a son of the late Wilmer and Ina Gardner Shirer. He was raised in Sonora, member of the Sonora United Methodist Church and graduated from Adamsville High School. He retired from AT&T. Billy was a Veteran of World War II serving in the Central Pacific Theatre. He was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps in 1945 and married Helen M. Bradford January 1, 1947. He is survived by two sons, Stephen (Dianne) and Christopher (Kelly); four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; and a sister, Alice Ruth Shirer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Helen, in June 5, 2015; six brothers, Rollin, Howard, Ralph, Robert, Thomas, Richard; twin sister, Betty Jane Ardrey; and infant sisters, Minnie Evelyn, and Mary Elizabeth No calling hours will be observed. A Cremation-With-Care will take place and a Private Graveside Service will be held at the convenience of the family with full Military Honors to be accorded to him by the United States Marines in conjunction with the VFW George Selsam Post 1058 and the American Legion Post 29 at New Hope Cemetery, Adamsville. To send a note of condolence visit www.bolin-dierkesfuneralhome.com , follow us on Facebook, or call our professional staff at (740)452-4551. BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE entrusted to all arrangements.