Billy R. Almon

Family will receive friends on Friday, July 17th at 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:30 a.m. at White's Funeral and Cremation Services, 867 S. James Road, Columbus, OH 43227. Officiant/Eulogist: Dr. Reginald A. Moore

Our beloved Billy Ray Almon Sr. (Rosco), peacefully passed away on Friday, July 3rd, 2026 at The Ohio State University Hospital; the same place he entered this world. Born in Columbus, Ohio on January, 16th 1949, Rosco spent the next 77 years of life shining with his vibrant personality and radiant smile.

He is preceded in death by parents, LC and Liddie B. Almon, brothers Larry J. (LA) Almon, Charles R. (Chico) Almon, Sister Katherine Valentine. Survived by his eldest brother, Jay L. Almon [Sally], Children; Tracey Almon-Taylor [Brady], Billy Ray Almon Jr., Patricia Almon, Terissa Cole [Roshawn], Raylon Almon Sr. & Justin Almon. Previous wives and dear friends; Joyce Jones & Denise Harper-Almon as well as a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and loved ones.

Rosco was a talented guitarist and entertainer who got a start in his early childhood years, singing with his family gospel group, “The Almonaires” which included his mother, four brothers and sister. He later graduated from Marion Franklin High School in 1967 as a Two-Sport athlete.

Shortly after graduation, Rosco married, started a family and decided to resume his musical career with his brothers Jay & LA in a band called ‘The Soul Partners’ based out of Columbus, OH. The trio of brothers later revamped their sound and co-founded ‘The Buckeye Politicians,’ finding success in Harlem, NY which led to years of domestic touring, international travel and a record deal. Upon returning to the Ohio, the group temporarily changed their name to SWANKK before dissolving.

After music, Rosco remarried, expanded his family and began his career with the Columbus Fire Department, where he worked for over 2 decades and went on to retire from in 2007. In his later life, Rosco was a Youth mentor and basketball coach for Columbus Recreation & Parks, coaching mostly at Barnett Recreation Center, and short stints at Marion Franklin & Schiller Recreation Centers also. Rosco also coached girls High School basketball at Beechcroft and Walnut Ridge.

He spent time as chess teacher, mentor, avid bowler, role model and philanthropist who dedicated his time to serve & develop the community he lived in. He spent his last days with his guitar while surrounded by loved ones until he was reunited with his ancestors and called home by The Lord.

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