William A. Strother

William A. Strother, affectionately known as Billy, was born on June 10, 1938, in Freeport, Texas. He passed away on January 9, 2026, in Normangee, Texas, surrounded by loved ones, a testament to the warm and vibrant life he led.

Billy's journey took him through many paths, leaving a legacy that embodies hard work, love for family, and a spirit that could light up any room. He dedicated a significant part of his career to being a heavy equipment operator with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 450 before transitioning into the role of owner/operator of an 18-wheeler for ACE Trucking.

In 1956, Billy made the noble decision to serve his country by joining the Navy, where he proudly served aboard the USS Robert H. McCard (DD-822) until his honorable discharge in 1961. His military service was just one facet of a man whose bold and outspoken personality made a lasting impact on everyone he met. Always quick to tell a story or make someone laugh, he carried an uncanny ability to connect with people, never meeting a stranger.

Billy’s interests were as colorful as his spirited demeanor. He cherished moments spent singing and dancing, often found with his beloved coffee in hand, enjoying the sweet sounds of old country songs drifting from his radio while sitting on the porch. His love for family was unwavering, and he found joy in every moment shared, from playing bingo to watching classic episodes of Gunsmoke.

His proudest accomplishments included the joy of fatherhood, celebrating reaching his 87th birthday, witnessing his granddaughters’ weddings, and getting to see his great-granddaughter go off to prom. A charming anecdote from his later years reveals that even in his 60s, he was fierce enough to beat any teenage boy in an arm wrestling contest.

Billy's family continues to thrive, including his brothers Donald, Richard, Kenneth, and Michael Strother, as well as his sister Sharon Strother Hensley. His deep love for his children and the many lives he touched is reflected in his beloved sons, Ty Kilsby, Stephen "Stoney" Strother and his wife Christina. He also held a special place in his heart for his stepdaughters Sheena Thomas, Jody Wright, and Micki Cameron. His legacy lives on through his grandsons Joshua Thomas, Jared Strother, Garrett Archer, Kenneth Wright, Ryan Wright, and Lincoln Strother, and his granddaughters Lauren Thomas, Hannah Padon, Brianna Strother, Kalee Thomas, Jada Davis, Stormy Strother, Jerica Jarnecka, and Valerie Cameron. He is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren, including a particularly cherished bond with his great-granddaughter Laylyah Godfrey, who lovingly cared for him until his final moments.

Billy is preceded in death by his loving parents, Crockett and Anna Bell Strother; his devoted wife, Patricia Miller Strother; his children Wadale Strother and Karla Strother Archer; and his siblings Leroy Strother, Loretta Valdez, and Darlene Jordan. Each of these relationships shaped the warmth and character of the man we remember today.

A memorial service to honor Billy’s remarkable life will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026, at The First United Pentecostal Church in Normangee, Texas, beginning at 10:00 AM.

Though he has departed this world, Billy's legacy will remain alive in the hearts of those who love him, a beacon of unconditional love, laughter, and resilience. He will be dearly missed but forever cherished.