HOT SPRINGS — William (Bill) B. James,
of Hot Springs, Ark., passed away peacefully surrounded by his family August 6, 2021. Without a doubt, he is currently residing in his heavenly home now. Bill was born January 31, 1943, to Bernard and Sue James in Hot Springs, Ark. He had two brothers, both still living, Bob James, wife Lou James, of Knoxville, Tenn., and Rick James, wife Lila, of Lillian, Ala. Bill was a graduate of Hot Springs High School class of 1961. He went on to the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville where he was a proud member of the University of Arkansas Razorback marching band and Acacia fraternity. He ultimately graduated from Henderson University in 1966.
September 28, 1968, he married the love of his life, Mary Joyce Patterson. The two were set to celebrate 54 years of wedded bliss this September. They had two sons, William B. James, Jr., and Adam Matthew James of whom he was very proud. Although, rumor has it, he was most proud of his two daughtersin-law, Patty and Megan and his grandchildren, Barrett, Brayden, Ivey, and Tyson. He was a loving and doting husband, dad, and granddad.
Bill has been a member of Highland and First Presbyterian Church. He loved the church and lived his life serving the Lord. He was an elder in the Presbyterian church who was happy at the front door greeting visitors, walking down the aisle as an usher, singing in the choir, or behind the pulpit as a liturgist. Bill also loved his country. He was a very proud member of the Arkansas Air National Guard. He travelled the world and country training and serving without complaint. He served 27 years, 7 months, and 20 days, before retiring in 1994. He was a devoted member and past president of the Sertoma Club. Also, he was a charter member of the Hot Springs Spa City Bop Club. For many years, he was the voice of the Garland County Community College Lakers and Lakerettes. His golf game began when he learned to play on the infield of Oaklawn racetrack. He absolutely loved driving his motor home across the South but many of you may have seen him as he travelled the state in his Honda Accord with his Holland grill strapped securely to the back. “Bill the grill guy” was known for his delicious grilled Boston butt and apple pies. Other than his love for the Lord, family and country, he had no greater loves than barbershop singing and pickle ball. Known as “Baribill” he was the last surviving charter member of Hot Springs Fun City Barbershop Chorus. For over 45 years, he spread the joy of singing. In the month of February, he could be found singing Valentine wishes. In December, he could be found caroling the halls of local hospitals and nursing homes. Monday nights were reserved for Barbershop singing. All other nights and mornings were available in case a pickle ball court came open. Bill was an early participant in the pickle ball craze. In those circles, he was known as “Pickle Ball Bill”. He was an ambassador for the sport and dedicated member of their association. His latest membership card arrived just last Friday. There are many people across the country who have been taught to play by Pickle Ball Bill. Heaven is a little richer and Earth is a little poorer. Bill had a great smile. He was a light! He will be sorely missed.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Tauth, Dr. Norvill, Darlene, Kay Lynn, Kristyn, all the ICU nurses and staff at CHI St Vincent Hot Springs. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church in Hot Springs, Ark. Donations may also be made in his honor to the Fun City Chorus’ Bill James Scholarship Fund at: www.funcitychorus.org and clicking on “Bill James Scholarship” link.
Services will be held Friday, August 13, at 1 at First Presbyterian Church in Hot Springs, Ark. Masks are requested. Online condolences at: www.caruth-hale.com.