Billy Herman Sykes was born to the biological parentage of Josie Carrington and Frank Sykes on March 6, 1943, in Conroe, Texas. He was reared in the loving home of Joshua and Bertha L. Johnson.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents and son: Billy Sykes, Jr.

Billy was a member of Hills Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Jimmy Lawrence.

Those left with beautiful memories include his wife: Melva J. Sykes; sons: Christopher Sykes, Melvin Sykes (Erica), Joshua Sykes, and Jason Sykes; daughter: Mooney Wilburforce, and sister: Ethel Sykes, a host of additional relatives and friends.