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William Bethea Obituary
09/28/1938 - 05/29/2025
William Bethea, born September 28, 1938, in Greenville, Missouri, passed away on May 29, 2025.
He is survived by his wife, Patsy; children, William Jr., Lorie, Michael, Claude, James; stepchildren, Aleecia and Joseph; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Claudette; his parents, Oscar and Gladys; and siblings, Betty, Theodore, and Oscar Jr.
A graduate of LSU in Petroleum Engineering, Bill served with the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne, and later in the Reserves, reaching the rank of Major. His long career in the oil and gas industry included leadership roles at Texaco, Taylor Energy, W&T Offshore, and his own ventures, Explore Enterprises and OTC.
Known for his larger-than-life personality and leadership, Bill left a lasting impact on the industry and those who knew him.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral services at E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 W. 21st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433. There will be a Wake Thursday evening, June 5, 2025, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM, and Friday morning, June 6, 2025, beginning at 9:00 AM, with eulogies at 10:45 AM; followed by Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church, 66110 Vortisch Road, Lacombe, LA 70445, on Friday, at 12:00 noon. Interment will follow in Pinecrest Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Lady of Fatima Church. Condolences may be shared at www.ejfieldingfh.com
E.J. Fielding Funeral Home has been entrusted with funeral arrangements. The Bethea family invites you to share thoughts, fondest memories, and condolences online, at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home Guest Book, at www.ejfieldingfh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Bethea
Sponsored by E.J. Fielding Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
4 Entries
Gary Fanguy
June 3, 2025
Patsy, I'm so sorry to hear about Mr Bill. He was a wonderful man to know. May he rest in peace
Mea
June 3, 2025
I´m so sorry for your loss. I am praying for you all. Please know that your loved one is safe in God´s memory (Proverbs 14:14,15). Just as he brought his son Jesus back to life, he will do the same for your loved one. May God give you comfort and strength to help you cope during this difficult time.
The Staff of E.J. Fielding Funeral Home
June 3, 2025
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Marine brother.
June 1, 2025
Rest in peace Soldier.
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Funeral services provided by:
E.J. Fielding Funeral Home & Cremation Services2260 W. 21st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433
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