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BORN
1928
DIED
2012
Billy McCormack Obituary
On the morning of May 31, 2012 as the sky above Shreveport began to reveal the blue and pink of sunrise, beloved husband, father and pastor Billy Ervin McCormack crossed over to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was born August 4, 1928 to Charlie and Ida McCormack. Words could never describe the lives he touched during his 60 years in the ministry. He was the senior pastor for four churches in the area, and has been pastor of University Worship Center since 1980. He is the Founder and served as Headmaster of Trinity Heights Christian Academy, University Christian Prep and University Montessori School.
Billy was a mighty Christian soldier, educator and statesman. He championed all people, young and old, rich or poor, black or white, in the name of Christian love. Many great men have walked this earth. Few have given so much and sought so little in return. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Dr. Jack McCormack, and his first wife, Carolyn Tomme McCormack. For his legacy, Dr. McCormack leaves a grateful and loving church family, a school for children, his wife, Barbara Talley McCormack; daughters, Victoria Lynn Williams and husband Charles; Patricia Jane Reeves, and son, William Michael McCormack and wife, Cynthia; Grandchildren: David Isaac Williams his wife, Starr and their children Sean and Elliot; Rachel Williams Merji and her husband, Moez; Joy Rawls and husband, Jeff and their daughter,Jaclynn; Josh Gutierrez, wife Catie, and their daughter; Marley and Hope Gutierrez; sister Patsy Payne.
Honoring Dr. McCormack as pallbearers will be David Cole, P.J. Harrington, Daryl Mackinnon, Dan Perkins, Jeff Rawls, Mike Rigdon, and Randy Roberts. Serving as honorary pallbearers will Sonny Harville, Pete Petty, Walter Schewe, and Dr. Fred Stucker.In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials may be made to University Montessori School, 9000 East Kings Hwy., Shreveport, LA 71115.
Visitation will be from 2:00pm to 4:00pm followed by a devotional service at 4:00 pm Saturday, June 2, 2012 at Rose-Neath's Southside Funeral Home. The funeral will be held on Sunday, June 3, 2012 at 2:00 pm at University Worship Center. Interment will follow at Providence Cemetery in Ringgold, LA. Officiating will be Dr. Carlos Spaht.
"...to be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord." 2 Corinthians 5:8
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Billy McCormack
Naomi Schmitt
June 10, 2012
Dear Family, .....He was such a special person......I first met Bro. Billy in December '95 while visiting with my in-laws Peg and Harold Johansen.....Jim and I had just arrived in Shreveport and it was time for the annual Christmas Party.....we were welcomed with such warmth and love.....I am proud to say that I knew him.......and am very honored to have given him the pleasure of our daughter Sarah's baby dedication.... we send our love and prayers to all of you, sincerely and with sympathy.....Jim, Naomi and Sarah Schmitt, and Peg Johansen
Sherri Gates
June 5, 2012
Dr. McCormack, I attended Trinity Heights Christian Academy and graduated in 1975. You were a wonderful influence on me , Sherri Arivett Gates, and my husband, Jerry Gates. Your daughter, Patty, and I were friends in school. Patty is a couple of years younger than I am. We will miss having you here, but we know that you are with our Lord in Heaven. We would like to convey our sympathy to your family. We will be praying for them in the weeks and months to come. God Bless you, Sherri Arivett Gates and Jerry Gates
Dan Perkins
June 4, 2012
We just completed two days, of two (memorial/funeral) services, for my freind and mentor of nearly fifty years. Dr. McCormack worked twice as hard as anyone I know, that's why he had two services. The deep and sincere love poured out, for Bother Billy, at these events was the most I've ever seen in my lifeteime. He opened doors for thousands of us "kids" through his many endevors. I traveled the country with Billy as he spoke and prayed with national political and religious leaders, including Rev. Myun Sun Moon and Lewis Farakan. Though he influenced thousands worldwide, Pastor McCormack would cancel his plans and return home every time a member of his congregation was in need. That repeated scenerio displayed his true heart and "calling" as a Pastor above all else. He was a second "father" to many of us and his touch in my life lives through two local radio stations, broadcasting songs and messages of the Christian faith.
Patti Reeves
June 3, 2012
My daddy was a light. He could love better than anyone I know. He loved my mom for 55 years and then the Lord blessed him with Barbara. They loved each other so thoroughly for their short six years that it seemed like they had been together forever. I am so grateful to the Lord for sending Barbara to dad. She put a twinkle in his eye. Daddy loved me to the Lord just as he did so many of you. I see different aspects of him in each of my children. I see his amazing cornflower blue eyes in the, eyes of my 3 month old granddaughter, Jaclynn Elisabeth Rawls. I pray I can be even a faint glimmer of the light he gave to the world. I love you, Daddy.
Richard & Debbie Berget
June 3, 2012
Brother Billy was very special to us! He was such a cheerful, loving, and generous person. Even when he was in the hospital, he had a smile on his face and wanted to see how we were doing.
He always seemed to see the glass as half full!!! We will miss him but know he's with Jesus now!!!
Marianne McDonald
June 3, 2012
Thanks to Dr. McCormack for leading THCA. I have found memories of his chapel services.
THCA Class of 1975
June 3, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the McCormack family. Dr McCormack left his imprint on this community for many years with his work at Trinity Heights, his church and as a community activist for those less fortunate. His legacy will live on.
With deepest sympathy
Ross and Regina Prewett
James & Lila Nickel
June 3, 2012
Our condolences. We loved brother Billy and were recipients of his kindness and encouragement over the years. To his family and to his congregation: May the Shalom of Christ be yours in its fullest.
Malcolm Davis, Sr.
June 3, 2012
Our prayers go out to you. Mr. Billy was a good friend to Uncle Bill and will always be remembered with love by our family. Sorry we just found out today. If you or your family needs anything just let us know or call Malcolm Jr.
Jim Barnwell
June 3, 2012
My prayers go out to the family.
Dr. Mac had my deepest admiration and respect starting way back at Trinity Heights Christian Academy in 1971. He was a man of integrity and consistency, and honored Jesus Christ with his life.
Lisa Fitzgerald Brantly
June 3, 2012
I can still remember Dr. McCormick leading us in singing "Onward Christian Soldiers" at T.H.C.A. I have so many fond memories of my time there and of Dr. McCormick. Patti and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I know he is leading some songs in Heaven now.
Linda Carpenter-Guardado
June 2, 2012
Your wonderful christian ways will never be forgotten Dr. McCormack. Thank you for all the wonderful memories at Trinity Heights
Rob and Robin Stockton
June 2, 2012
Dear Patty and family,
I was so sorry to hear about Dr. McCormack. I have such fond memories of him when he was our Headmaster at THCA. I had the privilege of being in chapel with him five days a week, 4th grade thru 9th grade. The way he led us and taught us about Jesus Christ will be with me always. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Dale Sauls
June 2, 2012
Just now saw the news about Bro. Billy on Facebook. He was a great Christian leader, pastor, and preacher. I'm sure he will be missed but know he is now enjoying his new Heavenly home.
June 2, 2012
Bro. Billy truly had a pastor's heart in every way. He was kind, loving, compassionate, and His love for Jesus radiated from his innermost being. Our hearts are heavy after receiving the church bulletin today and learning of his passing. He and Barbara came to Nashville to visit us not long after they were married, and we took them to the Grand Ole Opry. Bro. Billy knew all the singers, and we had a wonderful time. That was the last time we saw him and feel so blessed to have those wonderful memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara and the entire MCormack family.
Bob & Dewanna Phillips, Nolensville, TN
Bubba and Linda Talbert
June 2, 2012
Patti,
So sorry to hear of your precious daddy's passing. Take comfort in knowing he is in God's presence right now. Praying for you and your family.
Love,
Bubba and Linda Talbert
Holly Hall Wood
June 2, 2012
Patti,
Take comfort in knowing that you and your family were all part of a well-lived life. All of heaven is rejoicing today because Bro. Billy is there! We have wonderful memories of your parents and my parents and their friendship through the years. Wishing you and your family strength and peace.
ROLAND WISINGER
June 2, 2012
OH, WHAT YOU AND YOUR STAFF DID FOR MY TWO GIRLS, TAMMY AND TINA, AT TRINITY HEIGHTS IS STILL GREATLY APPRECIATED TODAY.
I FEEL AS THOUGH I'VE LOST A PERSONAL
FRIEND.
Pamela Perkins
June 2, 2012
Dr. Billy McCormack was a pastor & friend to 3 generations of the Otis Perkins family. He was a mentor to my brother Dan. He was kind, compassionate, encouraging, a wonderful man of God. He touched many lives all over the nation & beyond. Many souls will be in Heaven because of his ministry. He ran his race & finished well! He is now in the presence of the Almighty..."Go rest high on that mountain! Son, your work on earth is done! Go to Heaven a-shoutin' love for the Father & the Son!"
Brian K. Hewitt
June 2, 2012
Another Mentor and Gracious Brother in the Lord is "graduating into GLORY" and the rewards of being faithful and true to his Lord and Savior! My memories of him will always be joyful because he shared the "joy of the Lord" so warmly and sincerely. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. "SHALOM"-peace and comfort to the McCormack family and friends.
Brian K. Hewitt
June 1, 2012
Our prayers and thoughts are with you and all your family. Bro Billy was an important part of my life since Westside Baptist Church.
Your friends.
Berta, Patsy and Peggy Reynaud
Diane Mangham Blake
June 1, 2012
Patty,mickey and Vicky, what memories are flooding back. Summer at your grandparents house,your mom and the world series, your dad being the only man I'd ever known that wore hairspray" we had so many wonderful times together with all " the gang". I. Loved your dad so. I've never had another pastor like him. He was the best. I love to see you all. If your on Facebook contact me. I' so sorry for the loss of your dad. He meant so much to so many people. He was the only pastor to ever reach out to my dad. Bless all your family as you go through the difficult time. Love to you all.
Jean Foster
June 1, 2012
Bro Billy is a great warrior. He championed right in the face of opposition and loved unconditionally. Always giving and upbeat, he was a true shepherd for his flock. He opened our eyes and showed us the streets of gold. We will miss him dearly, but know he is walking those streets of gold. May God be a special comfort to his family.
Patty Curtis
June 1, 2012
I believe it was Westside Baptist Church in Sunset Acres, Shreveport, La. where I met Dr. Billy McCormick and his daughters... Prayers are lifted to the family.
Patty Curtis
June 1, 2012
Dr. Billy McCormick, I knew since he pastored Sunset Acres Baptist Church. also knowing both of his daughters. My prayers are with his family. He was a good man as well as a friend to my own family. Billy McCormick came to my dad's funeral February 17, 2012, James Loftin. He will be missed, but will be loved thru our entire life here on earth. Dr. McCormick, you are with our Lord and Savior and you are helping in painting the walls of Heaven with Jesus...
June 1, 2012
Our prayers are with all of the family.
Larry, Betty, Janey and Margaret Wise
Trellis Grafton/Jones
June 1, 2012
How honored and blessed I was to have studied under Dr McCormack at Baptist Christian College. He was a Mighty Man of God, an example for all that knew him. He is Praising his Lord and Savior right along side my dad, Louie Grafton and my pastor Dr Jimmy Tharpe. Thank you Dr McCormack for your love and devotion to our Lord and Savior, the earth has lost a wonderful man, but Heaven has gained one of God's greatest. Heaven is sounding sweeter every day. God Bless you all in this time of sorrow.
Vicki Glisson
June 1, 2012
I don't really think you can put into words what Bro. Billy meant to so many people. He was so eloquent with his writing and I feel so unworthy to try to express the love, admiration and gratitude I had for him. I am praying for you all and I can just see him and Jerry having a good laugh together in heaven.
Melody Von Einem
June 1, 2012
Please accept my condolences. I know he was a wonderful man, I watched him share many meals with my dear friends Betty and Barbara Helms who are heart-broken but who have a faith so strong they, as well all others who knew and loved him know, will meet him again some day. Godspeed.
Suzanne Weeks
June 1, 2012
Our deepest condolences to Billy's family and congregation, and especially to Aunt Barbara. May God and those closest to you comfort you during this difficult time. Billy was such a kind and charismatic person. He will be greatly missed. Love, The Weeks Family (Stephen, Suzanne, Noah, Lillian, and Colton)
Richard Thompson
June 1, 2012
One of the greatest men I was ever blessed to know. He was always there to pray with me when I needed him. My life will not be the same without his guidance.
Richard F Law
June 1, 2012
Your walking with the lord now,
You will be missed dearly I love you Billy.
You son Richard F Law
Gerry Rich
June 1, 2012
There are just no words to describe the loss that I feel. Bro Billy was my pastor and what a great pastor/shepherd he was. Available 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week. Always encouraging, always demonstrating the love of God in word and deed and always putting the needs of others before himself. Heaven's gain is truly our great loss. We will miss him so much and even though we must go on, he will never be forgotten. He was really a man bigger than life. And now the Father has called his son home....I know he is rejoicing in the presence of Jesus and o the things his eyes have seen by now...By faith we shall all attain it one day if we belong to Jesus. I'm finding it so hard to let him go. We weren't through with him. But the Father had a different plan. Blessed be His name.
Teresa Lynch
June 1, 2012
The O'Connor family (Teresa, Christine, Sarah, and Natalie) has great memories of Brother Billy from our University Montessori days. Much love and prayers for all of the family.
LaBetha Casey
June 1, 2012
So saddened to learn that our nation & world had lost a mighty Christian Warrior!! Heaven gained a jewel for sure. May the comfort of the Holy Spirit be with all the family.
Donna & Dustin Smith
June 1, 2012
Praying that the Lord comforts you with peace and love. We were blessed to know Pastor McCormack.
Glenda Dickens-George
June 1, 2012
Rest in Peace, Doc
Now you can be with that Heavenly Choir you always spoke of when we visited you at UCP.
Jeff Wallace
June 1, 2012
So sorry to hear of Dr. McCormack's passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire McCormack family.
Blake Franklin
June 1, 2012
Dr. Billy was a good man, who always had the best of intentions at heart. He will be greatly missed and my sympathy goes to the family.
June 1, 2012
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Stan & Catherine Beard
Michelle Andrews
June 1, 2012
I remember growing up at University and the memories of the church and the body of the church. It broke our hearts to hear of the loss of Bro Billy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time...Michelle (Andrews), Dustin, and Adrianna
R K
June 1, 2012
Barbara, I am sorry for your loss. I pray that as God holds you in his arms, that you find peace, and comfort.
Debbie Franklin-Toddy
June 1, 2012
Dr. McCormack was indeed a very special man....so loving and kind. Always a Godly example....and loved and respected by so many, especially so many students. Blake, Bailey and Brooke experiencd that love and example first hand at UCP.
May God be with all of his loved ones at this time, and may all the precious memories bring you comfort in the days to come.
Patti, Joy, Hope, Josh and Mrs. McCormick, our heart, thoughts and prayers are with you.
With much love,
Debbie Franklin Toddy
Blake, Bailey and Brooke
Cathy Blaine - Cogley
June 1, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Dr. McCormack played a big part in my life. He married my husband and I 37 years ago at Belcher Baptist Church. The counseling sessions we had before the wedding have stuck with us. We have two childen and three grandchildren. We have enjoyed a good married life. I attribute some of that to Dr. McCormack.
He was a kind and good man.
My prayer is that you will each feel the love and peace of God surrounding you today ane the days ahead.
June 1, 2012
He was respected and loved by our whole family.
He performed the wedding service for my youngest brother, Robert and wife Janie.
Bob and Myrna Wilson
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