Billy John McAlister, 77, of Valley Springs, Arkansas passed away on Thursday, February 8.  He was born on September 7, 1946 in Harrison, Arkansas, to the late Herrel and Claudia (Hall) McAlister.  He was a lifelong resident of Boone County, Arkansas.

Billy John graduated from Valley Springs High School.  He received a bachelor's degree in Agriculture from the University of Arkansas.  He worked briefly for the Conservation Department before entering into sales for commercial helicopter applications in the forestry and agriculture industries.  This led to him being a founding partner and Vice President of Sales for Summit Helicopters where he remained until retirement less than 2 years ago.

BJ lived life to the fullest on his own terms. Generosity was his calling card. He never knew a stranger because when you met him, you instantly became his friend. His smile and laugh were infectious. To be razzed by him was to be loved by him.  He loved his family and friends fiercely. No matter what, you could guarantee that he was always just a phone call away. He was passionate about the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He could recount endless stories, but none as great as his morning turkey hunt that garnered him two turkeys with one shot. He was a lifelong enthusiastic fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and Arkansas Razorbacks.  In his later years, spending time with friends and family at his cabin on Table Rock Lake gave him unparalleled pleasure. He was loved by many and will forever be missed.

Billy John was married to Beverly Cope McAlister Rains, the mother of his two children, and Lois Williams McAlister. He also had a special companion in his later years, Monica (Mickey) McAlister.

Billy John is survived by his two children, Dr. Tamara Fusco and Tiffini Koehler, two sons-in-law, Dr. Evan Fusco and Kerry Koehler, and four grandchildren, Heath Fusco, Brendan Fusco, Amarra Fusco, and Colton Koehler.  He is also survived by his two sisters, Shirley Vandel (Allen) and Sharon McAlister (Gená Day), a nephew Lance Foresee (Stephanie), a great nephew, Landon Foresee, and a great niece, Allison Foresee, a stepdaughter, Melanie McDonald (Kevin), and a stepson, Sean Campbell (Valerie).

A visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 pm on Friday, February 16, 2024 at Coffman Funeral Home of Harrison located at 501 Old Bellefonte Rd, Harrison, AR 72601.  Funeral services will take place at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at Coffman Funeral Home of Harrison with graveside services following at Crawford Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a charity he supported wholeheartedly.