Billy Harold Bacon

Billy Harold Bacon (October 11, 1935- April 8, 2023) was the best man. He was deeply loved by his family and respected by his community. Steadfast, hard working, generous, solid: these are all things that come to mind when you think of Bill Bacon. He was steadfast in his love for his family and for the Lord. He never faltered in his commitment to make his faith and family his priority. He worked hard to do what was right and to make sure his family had all they needed and most of what they wanted, especially when it came to his grandkids. He didn't love being the center of attention, but his steady, quiet presence created a sense of security that his family isn't sure how they will manage without. When he said he'd give you the shirt off his back what he meant was he would give that plus his coat and shoes, if you needed them, without hesitation. He loved those around him well; his beloved wife of 69 years, his family, his neighbors, his friends and strangers. The ripples of his love will be felt and missed for years to come. Bill was never still for long and loved to work. He literally worked around the clock for years at Bacon's Texaco. He owned and operated the filling station and wrecker service for 42 years. He spent nights and winter storms in the wrecker helping people in some of their worst moments and displayed great care, all while putting himself in harm's way. There wasn't much his big hands touched that he didn't fix! In addition, he kept the family farm in full operation: raising cattle and baling hay. But just doing those things wasn't enough. He pursued excellence and became a leader in the International and Oklahoma Brangus Breeders Associations and was honored by both in several ways. He spent his summers on the tractor and operating his custom hay baling business. His grandkids learned early how to spot Papa's hay bales and his commitment to excellence was very evident by the neatness of the bales he produced. He epitomized what doing something right looked like and he enjoyed days at the farm after he sold the station and wrecker businesses. He was a pillar in the community of Purcell: as a business owner, civil servant and volunteer firefighter. His character and love of people made him invaluable. Bill was able to be who he was because of the love of his life, Velma Harris Bacon. The high school sweethearts were married for 69 years and worked as a team on all of their endeavors. In business, hobbies, church and friendship they both believed as long as they were together, they could face anything. The pair looked forward to their vacations in their camper. Every October they would head to Colorado to watch the leaves change and ride trails. In the spring they went to "The River" in southeastern Oklahoma to fish with friends and family. Papa loved to be outside and to be with Nana. They set an example for their children and grandchildren of choosing each other over all else for nearly seven decades. Papa wasn't known for being a romantic guy and their love wasn't syrupy, but it was deep and true and something to strive for. That love created a legacy that they were both so proud of and invested in. They had two children, six grandchildren and 16 great grandkids. As parents, they took Brent and Jana on all kinds of adventures, taught them to work hard and treat people how you want to be treated. Both have become successful business owners, loving parents and adoring grandparents by following Papa's example. As grandparents to Brian, Tommy, McKenzie, Cassie, Whitney and Chigger they spoiled them well, cheered them on and made them each feel like they were their favorite. Papa made time for each grandchild and his steady presence was constant in all they ever did. He loved to laugh and play with them, but wasn't afraid to sit them under the pool table to think things over if he had to. He loved to fish and hunt with the boys. He made sure they knew how to drive the tractor, work cows and change the oil in a car. Papa loved his girls too and made sure they knew how they deserved to be treated by loving Nana. There was nothing that made them feel safer than a hug from Papa or holding his giant hand. All of them are better for having Bill Bacon as their Papa. Papa wasn't only Papa Bill to his flesh and blood but to countless kids who grew up at Union Hill Baptist Church. He taught 2-3 year olds Sunday school for over 35 years and a whole generation of kids got to experience the love and fun of Papa Bill. He brought the snacks, played with play dough and introduced 100's of kids to the love of Jesus for the first time. Bill was also a charter member of Union Hill and he served as a deacon for many years. He sponsored youth group mission trips, volunteered for work days and served faithfully in many other capacities. He loved Jesus and we're confident he was welcomed home as a good and faithful servant. Billy Harold Bacon was greeted in Heaven by: his parents, BH and Gladys (Huddleston) Bacon and his younger brothers JC and LD. He will deeply missed by his wife, Velma; children: Brent and his wife, Teresa Bacon and Jana and her husband, Gary Selman; all six of his grandchildren: Brian and wife, Kim Bacon, Tommy and wife, Crystal Bacon, McKenzie and husband, Chris Gordon, Cassie and husband, Lendall Hays, Whitney and husband, Nate McConathy, and Chelsie and husband, Jared Semkoff; his great grandchildren: Brendan, Landry, Emrie, Tucker, Bennett, Mollie, Casen, Houston, Henry, Brooks, Walter, Reed, Libbie, Murphie, Teddy and Sutton; as well as by his sister-in-laws Joyce and Susie Bacon plus many other friends and family members.

Billy Harold Bacon

October 11, 1935 - April 8, 2023