Billy Franklin Herndon

Billy Franklin Herndon was born on March 6, 1934 and died peacefully at home on January 28, 2021.  Billy was predeceased by his parents Wade Hampton “Bill” and Clara Mae Herndon.   He is survived by his loving wife Julie Harris Herndon, daughter Joni L Herndon, son Larry W Herndon.  Grandchildren Amber Herndon Malia and Adam Herndon.  Brother, Joseph L Herndon (Michelle), In-laws Joseph and Gean Busch Puleo, Brother In-law Norman Harris (Sonya), Sister in-law Jill Salvi (David) and several nephews and extended family members.  Billy will be missed by his beloved Schnoodle puppies Gigi and Trumpy.

Billy was a graduate of Hillsborough High School c/o 1952 and attended the University of Tampa.  He served in the US Army, the majority of time based at Ft. Richardson, Alaska and was proud to be a part of the Screaming Eagles.  Billy was a pioneer in the sport of Drag Racing and is credited by “Big Daddy” Don Garlits for rekindling his interest in drag racing. As a teenager, Billy spent his summers travelling to California to see hot rods and later became a drag racer himself.  He owned and operated Tampa Dragway, Central Florida Dragway and Orlando Speed World.  In 1996, Billy was inducted into the National Hot Rod Association Southeast Division Hall of Fame.  Billy was a real estate developer and developed office parks to include the award-winning Hampton Oaks Office Park.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, February 2^nd at 1 pm at Myrtle Hill Cemetery with a Celebration of Life to follow at the Carrollwood Country Club from 3-5pm.  The family wishes to thank Sandra Joachim, PA, James A Haley VA Hospital for her care and compassion over the years.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his memory to Seasons Hospice Foundation, 1408 N Westshore Blvd., Suite 260 Tampa, Florida 33609, the Carrollwood Village Small Dog Park c/o Carrollwood Park Conservancy, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL 33618 or a charity of your choice.