Billy Wayne Chesney

Billy Wayne Chesney, Master Sergeant, United States Air Force, passed away September 25, 2026, at the age of 87. While he carried many titles throughout his life, his favorites and most distinguished were “Dad and Papa.”

Born in Knoxville, TN, on June 30, 1939 and later baptized at Thorngrove Baptist Church.

Before building his family and career, Bill answered the call to serve his country, spending 20 years in the United States Air Force. His military career taught him leadership, resilience, and unwavering loyalty. These virtues he carried into every aspect of his life. While Bill was instilling a strong work ethic in his children, telling stories of his active-duty days, and supporting his family through every stage of their lives, he led by example.

During Bill’s military service, which included deployment in Vietnam, Guam, and flying over every hemisphere of the world as he served as part of The Strategic Air Command (SAC), he demonstrated exemplary service to his country, earning a Commendation Medal and the honorable “Bronze Star.”

Bill’s courage on and off the battlefield will never be forgotten. He taught his family what it truly means to live with honor, strength, and compassion.

Bill also demonstrated a love for the game of golf. Whether he was chasing the little white ball early in the morning or after a day of work, it brought him “JOY.” As Bill was working on perfecting his swing or enjoying a cold drink at the 19th hole with good friends, the fairways naturally became his second home. To Bill’s credit, he had three celebrated hole-in-ones and was always chasing number four!

After retirement from the Air Force, Bill spent his time working for the United States Postal Service. He was a devoted family member, a true friend, loyal colleague, and a positive presence to all who knew him, and will be forever dearly missed by so many.

Bill believed in community and service. He spent many hours as the President of the PTA and Optimist Club. Bill loved to serve the children as a Boy Scout leader, umpire, and referee. He gave his time willingly. Bill would also fix anything for family, neighbors, or friends. One phone call and his little red Ford truck would show up to help. Bill’s legacy and service to others were a vital part of each community that he served.

Bill is survived by his children Brian (Casi) Chesney and Shawna (Derek) Broadley; their mother, Lagonda Chesney; and his grandchildren Angela Parisi, Bryce Chesney, Reed Chesney, Ryan Chesney, and Maddi Tipton. He is also survived by his sister, Carolyn Garrett, as well as his stepchildren Tamma (Dewayne) Radar and Tres Monceret, and grandchildren Brianna Radar and Cloe Radar.

He is preceded in death by his devoted wife, Shirley Chesney; his brothers Roy Chesney, Gene Chesney, and Maynard Chesney; his sister Mary Katherine Webb; and his parents Alex and Alice Chesney.

A Graveside Service with military honors will be held at The East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery-John Sevier on Friday, October 23, 2026 at 12:30pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill’s memory to East Tennessee Veterans Honor Guard.

Mynatt Funeral Home is honored to serve the Chesney family.