Atlanta, Ga. - Originally from Felton. Billy was born to William and Virginia Lee Degnats, on October 25, 1948. He passed away suddenly on January 18, 2018, due to complications from a blood clot. Billy was a loving father, husband, son, sibling and teacher.
He graduated from Felton High School in 1966. He was known professionally as a talented and accomplished Drummer and Teacher. He toured worldwide and played with musicians and groups, such as, Ray Charles, Barbara Streisand, Diahann Carroll, Lou Rawls, The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, The Gene Pitney Band and The Ringling Brother Circus, just to name a few. Billy's dedication to his craft and his ability to pass his knowledge on will never be forgotten.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Lee Sapp Degnats.
He is survived and deeply missed by his parents, William Sr. and Catherine Degnats; his wife, Suzanne; his sons, Torin Degnats (Amanda), Alec Degnats (Nicole); his siblings, Richard Degnats, Larry Minner, Lynn Minner Hobbs (Greg), Robin Degnats Bohn (Pete) and Dana Degnats. He is also survived by a very large loving family of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A Memorial Service for Billy will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2018, 11 a.m., at Manship Chapel, 4912 Burnite Mill Road, Felton, DE 19943. A Fellowship Gathering will follow the memorial at the Chapel. Burial will follow the reception, for all who wish to attend, in Barratt's Chapel Cemetery, Frederica.