Billy D. Pyron

Billy Daryl Pyron, 85, of Tyler/Lake Palestine, went to his heavenly home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, May 18, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Tyler on November 20, 1939, to Eddie Harold Pyron and Ona Lee Whiddon Pyron. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Billy D. Pyron II; his brothers, Bobby H. Pyron and Eddie Michael “Mike” Pyron; and several nieces and nephews. Billy graduated from Tyler High School, Class of 1958, and attended Tyler Junior College. He grew up a member of Central Baptist Church in Tyler, where he also played on their baseball team. He continued his Christian faith by attending The Immaculate Conception Catholic Church for many years, where he ushered. Billy, known as “Big Daddy” by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, had a giving heart and a passion for helping others. It was important to him that his children and family did the same. Two of his favorite charities he supported were St. Jude and Tunnel to Towers. He was a past member of the Cedars of Lebanon, as well as Willowbrook and Hollytree Country Clubs. A hard worker on many fronts, Billy eventually started his own companies, one being Pyron Investments. He loved working in his profession—buying and selling commercial real estate and investing in properties, both big and small. Billy was a natural born business leader, a visionary, forward thinker, and he was involved in numerous development and real estate opportunities around the Tyler area. He was instrumental in the land development of South Tyler; including what is today Broadway Crossing, Walmart, and Target. Even at 85 years old, he was still acquiring and selling commercial real estate. Billy’s early interest in collector cars prompted him to invest in his own collection of unique sports cars. He also enjoyed motorhomes—driving them on long family trips or even just short trips to the Country Tavern. Billy was an avid football fan, rooting for the Texas Longhorns, and a devout fan of the Dallas Cowboys. He loved the lake, his quiet time, sunsets, and, above all, spending time with his loved ones. He had a knack for making people laugh with his quick wit and sense of humor. Words alone cannot express the love Billy carried in his heart for his family and his friends. He adored his mother his entire life, and was so very loved by all of his children, referring to his daughters as “his girls”, who will miss him beyond measure. A private family burial was held on Friday morning, May 23, 2025, at Rose Hill Cemetery with Rev. Steve Turrentine officiating. Becky Pyron Hamilton was the soloist. Pallbearers were John Simpson, Hunter Hartley, Todd Overbergen, Clayton Overbergen, Cole Overbergen, Dax Nutt, John Paul Manziel, Nolan Manziel Jr. and Nelson Manziel. Honorary Pallbearers were Billy Pyron III and N. Paul Manziel. Billy is survived by his loving longtime companion, Judith D. Elliott; his daughters, Merilyn Hartley, Shelley Simpson (John), and Rhonda Overbergen (Todd), and their mother, Merigale Manziel Pyron; his grandchildren, Hunter Hartley (Jennifer), Morgan Hartley (William), Clayton Overbergen, Carley Overbergen, Cole Overbergen, and Billy Pyron III; his great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. If desired, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

Billy D. Pyron

November 20, 1939 - May 18, 2025