It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William Leon Walcott, affectionately known as "Billy," who departed this world on November 5, 2023, at his home in Lumberton, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 1, 1934, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, he was the son of Maxine Walcott.
Billy, a true master of simplicity, shared a nearly four-decade love story with his dear wife, Joyce Ann Walcott, who beat him to the great beyond. Their love story was a model of commitment and affection that could warm anyone's heart.
Billy was a man who appreciated life's simple joys. He loved playing and watching golf, and he always had an unending itch for travel, ever ready for a road trip. He couldn't resist the charm of a Snickers bar, and his social nature led him to visit friends and family, even when uninvited. He was a walking comedy show with a heart of gold, always ready to crack a joke or share a witty remark.
Punctuality was his middle name, and he had a knack for keeping things in order. Early bird? That was Billy! He showed up to work bright and early, ready to tackle the day.
Billy was known for his passion for music, particularly old country tunes, and loved to play his guitar. His spontaneous, down-to-earth approach to life made every moment spent with him a memorable one.
Family was everything to him. He never missed a weekly visit to his wife and mother's resting places, a testament to his unwavering love. And let's not forget his dedication to his country as an Air Force veteran who served during the Korean War.
Billy had a deep love for fried catfish, and his preferred spot for it was Elijah's in Woodville. And who could forget his mysterious black and white cat, Tomato, who pulled a vanishing act on him?
Billy's passing was preceded by the loss of his mother, Maxine Walcott, and the loving departures of his wife, Joyce Walcott, his brother, Robert McLendon, and his sister, Ida Glover.
Billy is survived by a loving and extended family, including his son, Carl Walcott, and Carl's wife, Misty, as well as his daughter, Betty Tunnell, and her husband, Harold Jr. He is also survived by his brothers, Frank McLendon, with his wife Paula, Rickie Coon, and his wife Bonnie, and Eddie Coon, along with his sisters Lori Masters and Eva Cudd. Additionally, Billy's legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren: Harold Tunnell III, and his wife Stephanie, Shelley Tunnell, Dallas Tunnell, Danielle Urban, and her husband James, Kye Walcott, and his wife Brandy, Zach Walcott, and Kole Walcott. His great-grandchildren include Destanie Tunnell, Derrick Tunnell, Dalton Tunnell, Gavin Brackin, Olivia Urban, Madelyn Urban, and an eagerly awaited Baby Boy Urban, who is yet to make his debut into the world.
Visitation will take place on Friday November 10, 2023 at Forest Lawn Funeral Home located at 4955 Pine St., Beaumont, TX 77703 from 5:00pm-8:00pm. Funeral services will follow on Saturday November 11, 2023 at the same location at 2:00pm. Billy will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in the Garden of Devotion.
In celebrating the life of William Leon "Billy" Walcott, we remember a man who embraced life with simplicity, humor, and a deep appreciation for the little things. His presence brought joy to many, and his memory will continue to be cherished by those who were fortunate to know him. As we bid him farewell, we honor his legacy of love, laughter, and devotion.
