Billy Joe Smith

Billy Jo Smith of Lake Charles passed away on June 2, 2026.

He loved cooking, fishing, and spending time with the people he cared about most. His favorite place in the world was on the river with a fishing pole in hand.

For many years, Billy made his home at Grand Cove Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. While he was naturally a private person, his time there brought out a different side of him. He came out of his shell and became quite the social butterfly. He loved playing bingo, spending time with his friends, and visiting with the staff who cared for him. The friendships he formed at Grand Cove meant a great deal to him.

Above all else, Billy loved his family. His granddaughters were the center of his world, and he adored them. Whenever he was physically able, he could be found cheering them on from the stands at their softball games. Nothing brought him greater pride or joy than watching Peyson and Karsyn do what they loved.

Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Nikki Denton (Michael); and his beloved granddaughters, Peyson Denton and Karsyn Denton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Billy Jo Smith Sr. and Margie Perkins; and his brother, John Smith.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff and residents of Grand Cove Nursing & Rehabilitation Center for the friendship, care, and compassion shown to Billy throughout his years there.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Lake Charles Little League Softball in honor of Billy's granddaughters, Peyson and Karsyn. Donations may be made at:

https://www.lakecharlessoftball.com/Default.aspx?tabid=872162