Billy Ralph Tessneer, age 79 of Shelby, NC, passed away Sunday, October 19, 2014 at Cleveland Regional Medical Center.  Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday, October 22, 2014 at Cleveland Funeral Services and Crematory Chapel conducted by Rev. Tommy Price and Rev. Wayne Pittman.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Sunset Cemetery.  

   He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Nellie Sue (Hoppes) Tessneer and a daughter, Robinette Tessneer of Shelby, NC, a brother-in-law, Noah Hoppes and wife Martha of Shelby, NC, and a sister-in-law, Linda Hoppes of Boiling Springs, SC, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. 

   Born June 29, 1935 in Cleveland County, Mr. Tessneer was the son of the late Ralph and Lela (Black) Tessneer. Billy graduated from Boiling Springs High School.  After graduation, he entered the United States Navy, stationed at Norfolk, Virginia.  After an Honorable Discharge, Billy worked on televisions for a short time before working and retiring from Fiber Industries in Shelby.  Billy met his wife in 1956 and several years later, married the love of his life.  He enjoyed the outdoors, cooking, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends.

   In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Association for Welfare-Animals, 708 Hanover Drive, Shelby, NC 28150.

   To sign the guest book, please go to www.clevelandfuneralservices.com.

   A service of Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc.