William Harold Vann

William Harold Vann, was born on September 20, 1931, in Huntsville, Texas. He was the youngest of three children born to Willie Aminus Vann and Fannie Naomi Kittrell Vann. William and his two sisters were lovingly raised in a Christian home, where faith and family were guiding principles. He received his early education at Rosenwald School and graduated in 1950 from Samuel Walker Houston High School. William went on to attend Prairie View A&M University before relocating to California with his uncle. Upon returning to Huntsville, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army during the Korean War era. He trained and was stationed at Fort Bliss, TX; Camp Crowder, MO; and Fort Sheridan, IL. He was assigned to D Battery, 86th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Missile Battalion in Chicago, IL. William was awarded both the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal in recognition of his dedicated service. Following his military career, William worked at Delta Airlines, where he retired after 13 years of service. One of his greatest joys during retirement was the ability to travel freely with his beloved wife, Bennie Mae. Together, they shared a beautiful life filled with love, service, ranching, traveling, and countless cherished friendships. A devoted man of faith, William was a long-time member of St. Paul United Methodist Church (now St. Paul Methodist Church), where he faithfully served for many years as a Trustee. Known for his generosity and devotion, William, ("Brother") considered it both a blessing and an honor to care for his parents, grandmother, aunt, and others when they could no longer care for themselves. He also had a deep passion for ranching, caring for his cows and horses, and participating in the Huntsville Juneteenth Parade. In later years, William found joy in new activities, including Yoga for Veterans and Seniors, playing Bingo, and serving with the Huntsville Lions Club. On the morning of September 13, 2025, in Huntsville, William peacefully entered eternal rest, releasing him of all pain. William was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 49 years, Bennie Mae Vann; his son, Rufus Earl Vann; and his sister, Willie Florine Woods. He leaves to cherish his memory two daughters, Harold Marie Vann Mathis of Atascocita, TX, and Toxie (Benny) Oliphant of Huntsville; one sister, Fannie Earline Irving of Huntsville; four grandchildren, Vanetta Vann-Matteer, Cory Lee, Kelbee (Jasmine) Oliphant, and Kelsee Oliphant; great-grandchildren, nieces, and a host of other relatives and friends. Among those who miss him are his entrusted friend and caregiver, Liesa Hackett, along with others who cared for him during his illness, including DeKeenan Bell, Therese Bell, Mattie Doris Sowells, and Ocia Cottrell. His legacy of faith, service, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 10:00 AM and services will begin at 11:00 AM at St. Paul Methodist Church in Huntsville, TX. He will be laid to rest at Kittrell-Wilson Cemetery in Huntsville, TX. Memorial condolences may be made to the family at www.shmfh.com.