Funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. EST. on Monday, July 21, 2025 at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 784 Co Rd 298, Smiths Station, AL with Rev. Jeffrey McCauley, pastor and Rev. James Smith, officiating. Burial to follow in Lakeview Memory Gardens. Public viewing is 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 P.M. EST on Saturday, July 19, 2025.
Bennie “Billy” Seldon, Jr., age 92, of Smiths Station, Alabama, peacefully passed away on July 14, 2025. He was born on December 22, 1932, in Smiths Station, Alabama, to the late Bennie and Mattie Willie Seldon.
Billy attended Spencer High School in Columbus, Georgia, before entering the United States Army, where he proudly served during the Korean War.
After his military service, he worked at the Columbus Airport before beginning a long career with Georgia Power Company, retiring as a dedicated mechanic. Billy stayed very active in the community, always ready to lend a hand or share his wisdom. For several years, he was deeply involved with the Alabama Democratic Conference (ADC), continuing his lifelong commitment to civic service and his passion for making a difference in the lives of others.
A man of great faith, Billy devoted much of his life to St. Mark CME Church in Smiths Station, Alabama, serving as Chairman of the Steward Board, Superintendent of the Sunday School, Trustee, and Bible Study teacher for decades.
Billy was also a proud member of the Smiths Station Ruritan Club and co-owner of the Esquire Lounge in Smiths Station, Alabama. He enjoyed hunting and was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves.
He was united in marriage to Annie Laura Seldon on January 10, 1956, and they shared 43 years together until her passing in November 1999.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Bobbie Jean “BJ” Thomas; and siblings Haywood Harris, Chester Seldon, Lottie Mae Seldon, Annie Ruth Collier, Jannie Mae Ashford, and Ruby Nell Lewis.
His legacy lives on through his seven devoted daughters: Glenda Chavies of Smithfield, North Carolina; Sylvia (Sonny) Stringer of Smiths Station, Alabama; Brenda (Shelton) Rhodes of Centreville, Virginia; Evelyn Joyce (Tony) Jones of Birmingham, Alabama; Deborah (Mike) Kelly of Phenix City, Alabama; Laura Yvette (Darryl) Collins of Centreville, Virginia; and Lisa (Randy) Ray of Phenix City, Alabama.
He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren: Tiffany (Ben) Weldon, Tonika Payne, Anica Thomas, Terrance (Natalie) Stringer, Courtney Rhodes, Brittney (Jonathan) Bulls, Collin Jones, Lauren Jones, Nicholas (Travis) Kelly, Matthew Kelly, Michael (Darianny) Collins, Darryl Collins, Jr., Andrew Collins, and Mikayla Ray.
Billy was blessed with 16 great-grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and his church family, all of whom will forever hold his memory dear.
He is survived by his loving sisters: Bennie Patricia Wilson of Columbus, Georgia; and Willie Mae (Aubrey) Newberry of Columbus, Georgia; and sister-in-law Lula (Nathaniel) Walker of Decatur, Georgia.
The family extends their deepest appreciation to Jill and Calvin Ashford, Dorothy Barnes, Ernestine Hookfins, Desiree Harris, P&H Health Services, The Oaks at Grove Park, and Affinis Hospice both of Columbus, Georgia for their compassion, support, and loving care during Billy’s time of need.
Damian Collins sent The Peace Lily for Bennie Seldon Jr. - July 19, 2025
Work many years with Bennie learned a lot from him he will be missed.
My condolences goes out to the entire family at this difficult time Mr Benny had such a pleasant personality when taking care of him at the Oaks ,may you rest in eternal peace 🙏
It was a pleasure being Mr. Sheldon's care partner here at the oaks! Very loving sweet man, kept me laughing all day everyday. We will truly miss you bennie ben!
May the Lord hold y'all hands as you walk down the road of sorrow.Charles and Kathy (Turner)Anthony.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Our condolences to your family.
As a child growing up in St Mark I had the privilege to learn through your teaching. Your dedication at St Mark will never be forgotten.Rest on thy faithful Servant.🙏🏾
Another member of the good Ole baseball team has been elevated to Glory..wonderful memories. Our condolences to the family.
To the family, with sincere sympathy and prayers for each you, during this most difficult time. May God give you peace, comfort and strength in Jesus name. So sorry for your loss. Much love❤❤❤🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿🌹🌹🌹special prayers for Mr.Seldon children; I understand your hurt/loss.
Extending Heartfelt Condolences And Prayers To Mr Billy's Family, Thinking Of You All During This Difficult Time 🙏🏽🕊️🙏🏽
We will miss you Uncle Billy rest on.
Expressing my sincere condolences to the Seldon family. Mr. Seldon was one of my favorite employees to work with when I was at Bartletts Ferry Hydro, during the late 70's & early 80's. He was a great role model who always encouraged me in my career. He will be sorely missed.
We are expressing our sincere condolences to the Seldon Family. Our prayer is that "The One True God" brings comfort that surpasses all understanding to each of you during the passing of Mr. Billie. Soon we shall see that death will be a thing of the pass according to Revelation 21: 4.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.