Billy David Abner, age 78, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, at Saint Joseph Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. He was born on Sunday, January 4, 1948, in Mount Sterling, Kentucky, to the late Harding D. Abner and the late Helen Stokley Abner. Billy served his country honorably in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict, demonstrating a commitment to service that would shape his character for years to come. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Technology from Morehead State University, which laid the foundation for his professional journey. With a Master HVAC License in hand, Billy embarked on his career in the energy sector, beginning his tenure at East Kentucky Power in the fall of 1973. He started as a Sub Station Power Plant Operator, where he honed his skills and knowledge. Over the next 34 years, he evolved within the company, transitioning from dispatching roles to ultimately serving in marketing until his retirement in 2007. In addition to his career, Billy was a dedicated entrepreneur, owning Abner's Motel in Stanton and Lil' Abner's Motel in Slade, Kentucky, for three decades. His contributions to the community were numerous and impactful. He was recognized for his achievements as a member of the Powell County High School Basketball Hall of Fame, celebrating his athletic accomplishments and love for the sport. Billy played an integral role in various local organizations; he was a devoted Board Member and former President of the Beechfork Golf Course and a long-time member of the Powell County Tourism Commission. His leadership extended to the broader hospitality industry as he served as a past President of the Kentucky Hotel and Lodging Association and was the Chairman of the Stanton Motel and Hotel Association. A passionate supporter of youth athletics, Billy devoted much of his time to coaching basketball at both youth and high school levels, inspiring the next generation of players. A lover of golf, he could often be found on the course, enjoying the camaraderie it offered. Community-minded and generous, Billy always aimed to give more than he took, embodying the spirit of service and connection. Known for his warm demeanor, he never met a stranger, making friends wherever he went and leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. Billy is survived by his wife, Lois Abner; one son, Chad (Davida) Abner; one daughter, Casey Abner; and one granddaughter, Cacia Rose, all of Winchester. Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Hearne Funeral Home, 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, Kentucky. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 1:00 P.M. immediately following visitation. Burial will be held at Donnie G. Randall Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Stanton, with Marty Denniston, Michael Denniston, Wyatt Denniston, Sawyer Denniston, Wendell Denniston, and Zach Denniston serving as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Mike Tipton, Gary Abner, Chris Abner, J.T. Abner, Steve Abner, Roger Overbee, Steve Hale, Ronnie Thomas, Gary Reed, Jerry Schureman, Henry and Sandy Pettit, Bernard Wireman, David Goodwin, Bobby Small, and Abner's and Lil' Abner's Motel Employees. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hearne Funeral Home of Stanton.