Jim Billy Winchester

Jim grew up in Rogers, and like all Rogers natives, dreamed of playing Mountie football. Jim lived that dream, and became a key player for his team. A fast halfback, he helped the 1964 Mountie team secure the District AA Championship. During his senior year of 1965 he earned an Honorable Mention to the All American Grid team and was also selected to the All-District and All-State Football teams. He was recognized by the Mountaineers in 2009 for his contributions to the Mountie program, and was inducted into their Hall of Fame.

Jim married Catherine Bowling in June of 1969 and they made Rogers their home. They opened Beaver Lake Marine in 1971, and Jim became the name and face associated with boats and boating repair in NWA. Locals will tell you that their son Jason could swim before he could walk, and neither Jim nor Cathie would deny it. After spending 20 years in the boating business, Jim decided to see more of the world, and began working as a long haul truck driver for various companies. Jim retired from Emerson Electric in 2008 and spent the rest of his life enjoying Beaver Lake, his son, grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and watching his St Louis Cardinals.

Jim is preceded in death by both of his parents, siblings; Jill White, Jean Ann Epps, and Jerry Don Winchester. Survivors include his son, Jason Winchester; his grandchildren, Skylar Winchester, Morgan McClain & Kaylee McClain; his siblings Janice Smith, Judy Price, and Johnny Winchester as well as his ex-wife Cathie Winchester. survive him.

A Celebration of his Life will be held at 7:00pm Wednesday, June 15 in the Chapel of Rollins Funeral Home in Rogers. www.RollinsFuneral.com

In lieu of flowers, Jim requested donations should be made to the Rogers Mountaineer Hall of Fame, 500 W. Walnut Street, Rogers, AR 72756.