MR. WILLIAM ANTHONY TIGNER

I met William "Billy" Tigner in 1970 (51 years ago) when he joined the best community choir that was ever or will ever be organized, The Donald Vails Choraleers. Both of us, first tenors, born in January shared a mutual interest for all music, especially gospel music. We became the best of friends right away and continued to be friends throughout the years.

There were five young men in total that hung out together all the time as members of The Choraleers: Willie Chambers, Willie Fountain, David Croxton, (all who have since gone home to be with the Lord) Billy and myself, attending engagements, musicals, concerts and other church functions. We were inseparable! This led to Billy becoming one of the groomsmen in my wedding in 1974 along with the other guys in the group besides one more from the choir.

Billy's voice was amazing, so strong and sweet when it needed to be. He had a special expressive way and technique of displaying his God given talent and gift. I loved to hear him sing and watch him sing during his delivery, he was unique in his ability. Unity Baptist Church will truly miss my brother as I will also.

Brothers In Christ Forever,

Joseph Welch