William T Denton

.“Bill” Denton, 77, of Dallas, passed March 30 at home. He was preceded by his parents Roy Gold and Effiebell Denton, as well as sister-in-law Peggy Denton. Bill contracted Polio at age 4, which didn’t stop him from playing high school baseball (pitcher) and football (center) as well as tennis. He graduated from Eastern Washington State University with BA and Master degrees in Education (1958 – 65). Bill started his career as a teacher/coach in Washtucna, WA, before moving to Liberty High School in Spangle, WA. He taught Math and Science and was an all-around sports coach placing 4th in a state Basketball tournament. His track team won a state championship with only 4 runners. Bill was promoted to Principal of Liberty High School for 8 years. During this time, he also served as Past Master three terms in the Masonic Lodge of Washington. He received a fellowship to The University of Wisconsin-Madison and in less than 1 year completed his Ph.D. in Philosophy – Education Administration. Bill was encouraged by his parent’s inspiration and love of education. He continued to carry his family around the U.S., from Washington to Wisconsin and then an additional 7 months working for the Council of Greater City Schools in Washington, D.C. In 1971-72, he accepted a position as Director of Research & Development for Dallas ISD. He was also an adjunct professor at North Texas State University teaching Statistics. In 1980-1982, Bill was an instrumental contributor serving as President of the Texas Computer Education Association, which was dedicated to improving teaching and learning through computers and technology. Bill resigned from DISD in 1989 and accepted the Deputy Superintendent position with Midland ISD. Four years later, Bill & Marge decided it was retirement time and they returned to Dallas. Not able to sit idle, they began their next phase with travel to some of their favorite spots: Colorado, Idaho, Florida and Branson, to name a few. This included their many travels down memory lane with high school classmates during their reunions. Throughout his life and into retirement, he continued to enjoy his passion for tennis, hunting, fishing, and his grandchildren. Bill is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart of 58 years, Marge; daughter Shannon Rhoades, her husband Doug and stepson Garrett from Wills Point,TX; sons, Thomas Alan (Tad) of Cisco, TX; Dennis and wife Diedra and children: sister Lauren; and “twins” William Thomas IV (Will) and Matthew Ryan I, who are both actively serving in the U.S. Army. He is also survived by his brothers: Larry Denton of Bedford, TX, as well as Roy G. and his wife, Carol, from Lodi, CA. Celebration Services will be held on Saturday 4/5/2014, 11:00 a.m. at: White Rock United Methodist Church 1450 Oldgate Lane Dallas, TX 75218. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice or either of the below: • White Rock United Methodist Church (at address shown above) •Hugworks® Children’s Network 752 Mary Drive Hurst, TX 76053.