Billy “Pedro” Eugene Deen Jr., 53, of Ellerslie, GA, passed away on December 29, 2023. Born in Alma, GA, Billy was known to many by his childhood nickname Pedro. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Billy proudly served in the US Army from 1994 to 2009 where he held various roles including Tanker, MP, and Explosives Dog Handler. Billy bravely served in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was medically retired from the Army in 2009 and worked hard to overcome injuries he sustained from an IED. Billy was the recipient of numerous awards and certificates including a Purple Heart. Billy’s dedication to his military service was commendable, and his fellow servicemen held him in high regard.

Billy’s military career took him to many places both stateside and overseas which helped fuel his love of travel. Some of his favorite places however, were back home where Billy grew up in Fernandina and St. Augustine. Billy had a passion for cooking, deer hunting, hiking and spending time with his family and friends. Aside from his hobbies, Billy always found solace in the outdoors.

Billy is survived by his loving wife Elizabeth, daughter Emily Brayman, and her husband Chris, son Hunter Deen and his wife JiaVanna and grandson Finn as well as Billy’s parents Billy Deen Sr., Ginger Dowling and her husband Larry, sister Holly DeRossett, her husband Adam and their daughter Autumn. His family was his pride and joy and he treasured the time he spent with each of them.

A funeral service will be held on January 26, 2024, at 11:00am at the Ft. Moore Main Post Cemetery in GA, where Billy will be laid to rest with military honors. Additionally, a celebration of life will be held on February 3, 2024, at 11:00 am located at the Chem Cell Club in Fernandina Beach, FL, where friends and family can come together to honor his memory.