William "Bill" Barnette Hornsby

William Barnette Hornsby, known affectionately to many as "Bill," passed away on March 21, 2026, at Hot Springs National Park. Born on May 7, 1925, in Memphis, Tennessee, Bill lived a full and distinguished life marked by service, dedication, and a deep love for family and cherished pastimes.

Bill was a proud graduate of the Merchant Marine Academy and went on to build a respected career as Chief Engineer in the Merchant Marine. His time at sea left indelible memories, and he often recalled those days with a hearty laugh and a sparkle in his eye, reflecting on a life well lived and adventures bravely undertaken. One of his proudest accomplishments was the thrill of soloing a plane during flight school—an experience he described with great joy as being alone in the air, with no one beside him, a feat he found terrific beyond words.

His dedication to service extended to his time in the Navy, further testament to his commitment and courage. Bill carried throughout his life the legacy of his own father, Albert Guy Hornsby, Sr., who was a gentle man and a steadfast provider, qualities Bill himself embodied fully.

Beyond his professional and military achievements, Bill found great joy and fulfillment in his hobbies and interests. He was an avid enthusiast of horse racing, a passion he shared lovingly with his daughter and daughter-in-law, the latter being a horse trainer. Their many trips to the horse races are fondly remembered as times of lively discussion and shared excitement. Bill also engaged actively with the junior golf program in Hot Springs Village, where he enjoyed the camaraderie and the sport’s nuances.

Bill's personality was marked by warmth and easy laughter. He often told those around him, with a grin that revealed both humility and satisfaction, that he had a happy life and never imagined he would live to be 100 years old, but was grateful for the good life he had been given.

Bill is survived by his son, William Barnette Hornsby, II, and daughter-in-law Tammy of Pearcy, Arkansas; his daughters, Brenda J. Clark of Tomball, Texas, and Rebecca Bowen of Phoenix, Arizona. He also leaves behind a loving family of grandchildren: Laura Avelar of Spring, Texas; Taylor Hornsby, Jarrette Hornsby, Ben Hornsby all of Arkansas; Dawn Mclusky of Florida; and William Hornsby III of South Carolina. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Stephan, Hannah, and Haley Avelar, as well as his great-great-grandchild, Skyla Elizabeth Avelar.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Albert Guy Hornsby, Sr. and Thelma Barnette Hornsby; his daughter, Cynthia Thomas; and his brother, Albert Guy Hornsby, Jr..

William Barnette Hornsby’s life was a testament to strength, joy, and unwavering love for family and country. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hot Springs Village Jr. Golf Program Scholarship Program, contact Gary Sikes, Sikesga1954@yahoo.com.

Below is a touching artice capturing the life and memories of Mr. Hornsby, shared though an interview with Suzzane Sweeten with the Hot Springs Village Voice newspaper published on June 24, 2025.

'No regrets, I’ve had a wonderful life'

BY SUZANNE SWEETEN

William Barnett Hornsby has witnessed many changes since his birth on May 5, 1925. Now, at 100 years old, Mr. Hornsby may be a little hard of hearing and slower than he would like, but his mind and eyes remain sharp, as does his wit. He is a man with few regrets who loves the life he has led, and his vibrant personality is evident the moment you meet him.

Hornsby was born in Memphis, Tennessee, but he lived all over the United States because his father worked in construction. He grew up with an older brother who was two years older, and remembers being happy.

"I graduated from high school in 1943, and back then, you knew where you were headed. I enlisted in the Navy and volunteered for flight school. Unfortunately, I struggled to reach the rudder pedals, which ultimately led to my failure in flight school. As a result, I joined the Merchant Marines instead. I spent 37 years in that career, ultimately being discharged as a Chief Engineer. I've spent most of my life at sea.

I have been married three times and have three children, as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. This year, I am expecting my first great-great-grandchild. It’s a big family, and they all gathered to celebrate my 100th birthday, except for two of my grandchildren who are healthcare workers and were on call.

Hornsby laughs easily, especially when reminiscing about his time at sea. He speaks affectionately about the men he worked with over the years. "I've traveled all over the world and lived in various parts of the United States. Being at sea can be tough on marriages and family life. I once had a young engineer tell me he was considering getting married the next time he returned home. He said he wanted someone to come home to. I advised him, 'Son, let me give you some advice: get a good dog. They’re always happy to see you, no matter how long you’ve been away.'"

In 1984, Hornsby retired to Durango, Colorado. Initially, he rented an apartment for a year to see how he adjusted to the weather. Eventually, he purchased a home in Durango West, located at an elevation of 7,000 feet. "I loved it there," he said. "I think living there strengthened my lungs because when my friends came to visit, they would be huffing and puffing, but it didn't seem to affect me.

I learned to ski at the age of 69, and I also learned to fly fish. During my last winter in Colorado, we had 10 feet of snow that remained on the ground for nine months. I said, I'm outta here, enough is enough.

My son and his wife were living in Little Rock at the time, and he talked me into visiting Hot Springs Village. I came down here and stayed a few days, bought my house here, went back to Colorado, and sold my house. That was 31 years ago. I've been in this house right here the whole time."

Hornsby credits his long life to regular doctor visits. “I have a physical every year. That started for me back when I was in the Merchant Marine, and I've kept it up. Why, I've been going to the same doctor for the last 25 years. He probably knows more about me than anyone else on earth.

I believe that tracking your health is essential. I never dreamed I would live to be 100. I asked my doctor several years ago if he thought I would make three digits, and he told me he didn't see a problem reaching that goal, and I made it."