1934-2018

Billy Stuart Batts, 84, passed away on July 24, 2018. He was the only son of the late Lonnie and Ruby Batts of Raleigh, NC. His love of fishing, particularly along the Outer Banks, inspired his educational interests and pursuits in research and teaching. Dr.Batts retired as an Associate Professor Emeritus of Biology in the Science Department of Longwood University, having taught biological sciences there for 35 years, where he implemented the first courses in Ecology and Marine Biology. While attending Elon College in North Carolina, he met his future wife, and then went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree from N.C. State University in 1956. Through further postgraduate research and education at the University of Miami and the University of Washington, he received his Master of Science degree from the UW College of Fisheries in 1960. He earned his Ph.D. in Zoology from N.C. State University in 1970, publishing several internationally acknowledged scientific articles in the fields of herpetology and ichthyology. He was a Fellow of the American Institute of Fisheries Research Biologists, and a member of the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, the National Marine Educators Association, and the American Fisheries Society.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Emma; two sons, Dr. Kenneth B. Batts (Sherreen) and Dr. Keith F. Batts (Michelle); and one granddaughter, Emily (daughter of Ken and Sherreen). The family will hold a private funeral service at a later date.

In his memory, donations can be made can be made to the Prince Edward County Volunteer Rescue Squad in Farmville.