Bill G. '49

Bill Bockmon was born to Leo and Dena Bockmon on April 2, 1928, on a farm outside Pittsburg, Texas. Bill attended school in Pittsburg, where he was a Boy Scout throughout his teenage years and proudly achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. After graduating from Pittsburg High School in 1945, Bill attended Texas A&M University, Class of '49. After which, he transferred to East Texas Baptist College where he lettered 2 years in football.

Bill was named "Ironman Bockmon" by a local sportswriter because of the minutes he played in the games. He played fullback (offense), cornerback (defense), and was also the punter, showcasing his athleticism and true love for the sport. Bill earned his B.S. in Physical Education from ETBC in 1949, leaving a mark as a dedicated and accomplished athlete. In May 2005, his contributions to the university's athletic program were celebrated with his induction into the East Texas Baptist University Athletic Association Hall of Fame, a proud moment shared with former teammates, family, and friends.

While attending East Texas Baptist College, he met and fell in love with Frances Camille Hornbuckle, and after graduation, they were married on June 12, 1949. During 53 years of a happy marriage, they were blessed with 2 children, 2 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. After the passing of Camille, the Lord blessed Bill by bringing Susan Jopling Meiller into his life. They married in December 2003. Susan has been a delight in Bill's life with her devoted, loving, and caring nature.

Bill coached high school football before honorably serving his country for 4 years in the US Navy during the Korean War. Bill returned to Texas A&M University, completing his degree in Civil Engineering in 1958, and remained a proud, lifelong Fightin' Texas Aggie.

His dream of building bridges and highways became reality when he earned his Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) license. Bill devoted over 32 years to the Texas Highway Department, designing and overseeing the construction of bridges and highways in the Navasota, Buffalo, and Bryan areas, including his notable role supervising the completion of Interstate 45 in Buffalo, Texas.

Bill faithfully served the Lord as a deacon at First Baptist Church Bryan for more than 30 years, also dedicating his time as a Sunday School teacher, Director of the College and Couples Departments, and Small Group Leader. Raised as a Master Mason, he was also a proud member of the Scottish Rite, 32nd Degree.

Bill served his community in the Lions Club for over 50 years as Past President, United Way Division Chairman (Bryan), and the American Legion Earl Graham Post 159 Bryan. Bill's love for the game of football drew him back onto the football field, where he was a member of the Southwest Football Officials Association and officiated high school and junior college football for over 20 years.

Bill's legacy is defined by a life of devotion-to his family, his faith, and his community. Steadfast in his principles, he lived with integrity, love, and generosity, leaving a lasting impact on all who were fortunate to know him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Dena Bockmon, and his first wife, Camille Bockmon of Bryan. Bill is survived by his wife, Susan Bockmon, daughter Laura Bockmon Pemberton and her husband Russell; son Brian Bockmon and his wife Christina; grandson Justin Pemberton and his wife Annie; granddaughter Courtney Pemberton Hood and her husband Josh; great-grandsons Kash and Kross Pemberton and Anderson Hood, and great-granddaughter Carter Camille Hood; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Joe and Marty Jopling.

Bill's family appreciates the care and support of Hospice Brazos Valley and Home Instead for the past year. The family also wants to give appreciation to the outstanding caregivers that made it possible for Bill to spend his last days at home.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Bill's memory may make memorial contributions to Gideons International to introduce soldiers to Scripture. By introducing those who are ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for their nation to the One who sacrificed His life for the sins of the whole world.

The Gideons International officially began distributing Scriptures to soldiers in 1941 at induction centers under the motto, "Arm them with the Gospel too." While Gideons are mostly known for placing God's Word in hotels, reaching the lost with the Gospel includes distribution of Scripture at military installations around the world.