Billy Royce Mewis

Billy Royce Mewis, age 80, passed away Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at his home in Bellville, Texas.
"Uncle Bill" was born September 21, 1943, in Bellville, Texas, the third and youngest child of Colbert and Anita (Hildebrandt) Mewis. He grew up and attended schools in Bellville. Billy was baptized, confirmed and a lifelong member of St. John Lutheran Church. Uncle Bill, affectionately known as "Nana's Baby Boy", was a hard worker and full-time rancher taking on responsibilities and duties with his family. They tended cattle and ranch land in Austin and Falls Counties, Texas, and Chico County, Arkansas, as well as working alongside his dad at the Sealy Livestock Auction. He took great pride in raising outstanding purebred Beefmaster cattle and was very particular in his selection of the bulls he chose to breed his cows. Billy attended many sales to purchase the best.
Uncle Bill had an infectious, hearty laugh and family gatherings were always enjoyable as he told many stories that entertained even the youngest members. He had a great love for history and was an avid collector of many unique and historical items. He loved going to antique and gun shows in search of a new token, plate, and other authentic items. He took great pride in his firearm collection which he researched and documented.
Uncle Bill was known to enjoy a cold beverage or two with his co-workers and friends after a hard day's work. Brock's, Burleigh Store and Crossroads Tavern were some of his favorite establishments and he considered the people there a part of his extended family. In his younger years, Billy enjoyed participating in fair parades and trail-rides, sporting his treasured horse teams, wagons and buggies. He was known for cooking "gravy" (barbecue sauce) for various local events and festivities. He was very supportive of many local organizations and to those in need. Many people knew they could go to Uncle Bill for anything.
Uncle Bill is survived by a sister-in-law, Janie E. Mewis and brother-in-law, William S. Jackson. His nieces, Cheryl Sackett, husband Eddie of Tignall, GA, Patti Kim Jackson, husband David, Sherrie Hoppe, Suzanne Braun, and husband Greg of Bellville. Nephews include Stanley Jackson and wife Belinda, and Steven Jackson and wife Lori also of Bellville. Great nephews and nieces, Matt Jackson and wife Tanya, Shawn Jackson and wife Wendy, Brent Jackson, Kirk Hoppe and wife Angela, Grant Jackson and wife Kelsi also of Bellville, Nikki Shreve and husband Jeremy of Big Piney, Wyoming, Mandi Schwartz and husband Aaron, Mallory Ferreira and husband Danny of Houston, Bethany Ellis and husband Johnny of Fulshear, Sarah Shupak and husband Trey of Bellville, and Jenna Jackson of Austin. Uncle Bill was blessed with 18 great-great nieces and nephews, numerous cousins, and loyal friends.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents: Colbert and Anita Mewis, brother: Charles (Bubba) Mewis, sister: Jeanette Jackson, niece: Elois Jackson, and nephew: Frankie Hoppe.
Funeral services were scheduled for Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church in Bellville. Visitation at 10:00 AM with the service following at 11:00 AM. Private burial at Pilgrims Rest Cemetery.
Pallbearers include David Jackson, Stanley Jackson, Steven Jackson, Greg Braun, Kirk Hoppe, Robert Fick, Dusty Falk, and Sherman Henderson. Honorary pallbearers: Matt Jackson, Shawn Jackson, Brent Jackson, Grant Jackson, Joe Speckmaier, Colby Grawunder, Bill Hegemeyer, Bonnie Hegemeyer, and Darrell Hyatt.
Billy was truly one of a kind and will be missed by so many-tall in stature, strong, yet gentle and kind, and always a favorite. Billy supported many charitable organizations. Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to St. John Lutheran Church Retreat Center or an organization of their choice.