William "Bill" Temple

He is survived by his children, Joe (Vicki) Dumas, Cindy (Mike) Payne, Dawn (Robert) Fortner, Terry Temple; nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.

He served in the United States Army where he received a battlefield commission during the Korean War. During the Vietnam war he flew both multi engine fixed wing aircraft and helicopters. During his first and second tour of duty in Vietnam he distinguished himself by flying 125 air combat missions as a pilot in support of the counterinsurgency efforts in Vietnam and flew a total of 794 combat support mission hours. His awards include; The Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Purple Heart, Air Medal with/6 oak leaf clusters, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Korean Service Medal, Master Aviator Badge, Master Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, and the Combat Infantry Badge. He was also a member of the United States Army Marksmanship Team. During his long aviation career he flew as a military instructor pilot and commercial pilot with Delta Airlines.

He was an ordained deacon who loved the Lord and was a member of the Wildwood Baptist Church where he taught Sunday School for many years. He was also an avid Sportsman who loved fishing, hunting, shooting, and reloading. As a mentor he generously spent countless hours training others to become proficient Sportsmen.

He studied Agriculture at Mississippi State College which led to a passion of agriculture. He planted numerous gardens and vineyards throughout his life and shared his knowledge and assistance with a multitude of friends and neighbors.

He was a member of the Wahabi Shriners and the Pearl Masonic Lodge Number 23. He was also a life member of the 6473 VFW Post and was the Post Commander from 1973 to 1974.

Colonel William T. Temple leaves behind a legacy of honor and dedication to his country and to those who knew and loved him.

A memorial service for William will be held Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Wildwood Baptist Church, 101 Auburn Drive, Clinton, Mississippi.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.lakewoodfuneraljackson.com for the Temple family.