Bill Ireland

Joe “Bill” Ireland of Shallowater, Texas passed away on Friday, March 14, 2025 at the age of 80. Born on May 31, 1944, in Lubbock, Texas to Bailey and Allie Ireland, Bill lived a life marked by service, dedication, and an enduring love for the great outdoors.

A proud graduate of Shallowater High School’s Class of 1962, Bill continued his education at Texas Technological College, now Texas Tech University, earning his bachelor’s degree in political science in May 1967. Shortly after, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. As a tank driver in the Vietnam War, Bill achieved the rank of SP5 and was honorably discharged in 1969.

Bill spent many years as a trusted banker, first with First State Bank of Shallowater and later as a loan officer with Whisperwood National Bank, now Plains Capital Bank, where he dedicated 18 years before retiring. He was also a member of the First United Methodist Church of Shallowater.

Beyond his professional and military service, Bill was a true outdoorsman. Hunting, fishing, camping, reloading, and shooting sports were his lifelong passions. A member of the South Plains Archery Club and a dedicated bow hunter, he later turned his passion into a business, owning and operating The Bow Stop, where he provided archery supplies, maintained a shooting range, and crafted arrows with precision and care.

Bill’s legacy lives on through his beloved family. He is survived by his children: April Pool and husband Chris of Jasper, Texas; Jason Ireland and wife Jade of Fort Smith, Arkansas; and Brynn Ireland and wife Emily of Lubbock. He also leaves behind his sister, Carol Ann Mitchell of Lake Forest, California, as well as seven cherished grandchildren.

Bill will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his spunky personality, unwavering dedication to his family, his love for the great outdoors, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness, service, and friendship.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Casey Powe Memorial Scholarship Fund (Attn: Tommy Powe) 1007 8th Street Shallowater, Texas 79363.

Services will be Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 10:00 am at the Combest Family Funeral Home Chapel in Lubbock. The family invites you to come at 9:30 am for a time of fellowship before the service begins.