Bill M. Pollard

Billy Maurice Pollard, 89, of Odessa, passed away Tuesday, February 21, 2023. He was born September 22, 1933 in Altus, Oklahoma, to the late Elsie Wayne (Harris) and James Arthur Pollard. Bill married Barbara Ann Dooley on July 11, 1953, at Sacred Heart Church in San Angelo, TX.

BIll proudly served his country during the Korean War and was honorably discharged as an Airman First Class.

A devout Catholic, Bill was a proud Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church until 1982 when Barbara and Bill transferred their membership to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. In recent years, Bill looked forward to and enjoyed weekly visits and mass attendance with Linda Mealer, his sister-in-law.

For more than 20 years, Bill was owner/operator of highly successful service stations; he owned three of the four Shell stations in Odessa. Bill considered Pollard Shell on West County Road the highlight of his entrepreneurial and business achievements. Never one to sit idle, Bill later managed Oakwood Manor Condominiums. For more than 20 years, residents at Oakwood grew to adore “Mr. Bill”, their kind and compassionate manager.

Bill was an avid golfer and fan of NASCAR, the Dallas Cowboys, the Texas Longhorns, and the Texas Tech Red Raiders. Around the house, Bill was an exceptional host, brewed the best cup of coffee in Odessa, and made sure everyone was well-served. No one left his house without him personally escorting them to the door and watching them safely to their car. When his adult children traveled away from Odessa, Bill insisted on a text or call when they arrived at their destination.

Everyone knew that if they needed help, they could call Bill. He could repair anything and was always happy to lend a hand. He was passionate about all family gatherings and an always-present and enthusiastic fan at his childrens’ and grandchildrens’ performances and athletic events. And, his wit and hilarious sense of humor kept his family in stitches.

Bill is survived by Barbara Ann Pollard, his wife of 69 years, and his children: Linda Gail Shannon of Odessa, Theresa Reed and husband Mark of Ira, Judy Rodgers of Odessa, David Pollard and husband Doug Duke of Austin, and Darla Becker and husband Roger of Odessa. Bill also loved grandchildren Marci Herrera and husband Hector, Susan Patrick and husband Ryan, Brian Pollard and wife Monica, Kimberly Pirtle and husband Tanner, Heather Sutphin and husband Ronnie, Tori Rodgers, Brett Becker, Barron Becker, Courtney Digby and husband Zane, Bailey Becker, Alexis Reed, Ashley Ofosu and husband Ray, and Kacey Price and husband Matt; 15 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. Bill’s family includes sisters-in-law Margaret Windham, Betty Fincher, and Linda Mealer, plus several nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, brother Wayne Pollard, sister-in-law Mary Choina, brother-in-law Micky Dooley, and Jay Gilbert, his grandson.

The family will receive friends for visitation at Frank Wilson Funeral Directors on Monday, February 27, 2023, from 5-8 pm, with the Rosary at 7 pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at 10 am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. A private inurnment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to Bill’s favorite charity: Catholic Charities Community Services of Odessa, 2500 Andrews Highway, Odessa, TX 79761.