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The Tennessee sports world has lost one of its best kept secrets.  Billy Schrivner of Jackson passed away yesterday at 81 from a long illness that took his body, but not his spirit.  I have known Billy for about 40 years, and I can say with all conviction that there is not a more solid man anywhere in West Tennessee, than Billy.

Billy was a true sportsman, and may have been the only well liked and respected referee in the history of mankind.  He was the anti-Ted Valentine in all manners.  He began refereeing games (in multiple sports) when he was very young.  He even did some of my dad's high school BB games, and dad graduated in '56.  There were some great articles in the Jackson Sun over the last month or two, and they are worth searching and reading.

I saw Billy in Dec '12 at a Scotts Hill BB game, and again 2 weeks ago at his home.  The physical difference was striking.  Although he was weak, his mind and attitude was strong.  He even had the game on!  We had a great visit (although much too short) and talked about the glory days when everyone was still young and full of vigor.  I came away from that visit melancholy, but confident that Billy would soon be with mom and dad and that they would be having a great time.  They would probably be hanging out at Guido's tailgate getting caught up on all of the latest news.

Today, the heavens rejoice, and we mourn.  Godspeed Bill Schrivner.

http://www.jacksonsun.com/article/20140313/NEWS01/303130017/Billy-Schrivner-mourned-by-many-longtime-sports-official-dies-age-81

I knew Billy for 40 years.....A truly, truly good man.