Billy Logan Speer, 83
Mr. Billy Logan Speer of Sarasota, Florida, formerly of Campbellsville, passed from this life on February 1, 2015 in Florida. He was 83 years, 9 months, and 21 days of age. He was the son of the late Clarence and Cleo Speer. Mr. Speer was a long-time Campbellsville businessman and entrepreneur. Among other things, he founded Speer Systems, a manufacturer of industrial equipment, and was the former owner of the local Fox34 television station.
Mr. Speer also loved traditional music. He was a founding member of Flakespear, a bluegrass band and TV production company, that was inducted into the Old Time Country Music Hall of Fame in 2007. He was also well-known for his hand-made aluminum banjo’s; one of which he presented to Kentucky Governor Paul Patton in Frankfort.
Mr. Speer was a veteran of the Korean War, and served his country honorably as a wire sergeant in the United States Army.
Mr. Billy Logan Speer leaves to mourn his passing:
One son: John Logan Speer of Danville, KY,
Three daughters: Paula and Larry Lee of Clarkson, KY, Denise Ramsey of Glasgow, KY, and Katie Mynette Speer of Campbellsville,
Two brothers: Bob and Vera Speer of Altus, OK, and Don and Sue Speer of Bowling Green, KY,
Three sisters: Betty and Bob Matthews of Edmond, OK, and Joy Bryant and Sharon Reese of Campbellsville,
Six grandchildren,
Five great-grandchildren,
And a host of other close family and friends.
He was also preceded in death by a brother, David Speer.
Cremation rites were accorded. A graveside military service and celebration of life ceremony will be conducted at the Brookside Cemetery in Campbellsville on Saturday, June 27, 2015.
L.R. Petty Funeral Home in Campbellsville in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials take the form of donations to Gideon Bibles or the Kentucky Christian Academy Music Department. These can be made at the funeral home.
