William “Bill” Hulon Ward
Greenville Herald Banner
Thursday, Jan 11, 2007
CAMAS, Wash. — William “Bill” Hulon Ward died peacefully at home in the presence of his family late Sunday evening, Jan. 7, at the young age of 93.
He was born and raised in Greenville; obtained his bachelor’s degree from East Texas State University in Commerce; married the love of his life, Mary Wise Adkisson; and shared the next 66 years with her.
He served in World War II, remained in the Air Force Reserves, and retired as a lieutenant colonel. Following the war, he moved his young family to Camas, Wash., to assist his brother at the Camas Feed Store, which occupied the block south of Third Avenue between Adams and Birch.
Later, he worked in the purchasing department of Crown Zellerbach, retiring in 1978. He and Mary Wise enjoyed entertaining friends, partying, camping (both tent and RV), and generally living a full and rewarding life.
Bill was active in the local leadership of the Boy Scouts of America, earning the Silver Beaver award (the highest offered) from the Columbia Pacific Council. He also served the community through the local Lions Club, earning a certification of appreciation from the International president.
He was a long-term mentor in the local chapter of Junior Achievement, a member of the Shriners, and a sponsor of the Knights Templar. He was an officer in the Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star, successfully supporting his daughters through the chairs of the Rainbow Girls. Bill was elected First Citizen of Camas in 1963.
Visitation is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today at Straub’s Funeral Home in Camas. Internment with military honors is at 11 a.m. Friday at the Camas Cemetery. A memorial service and reception follows at 1 p.m. at the Camas Methodist Church.
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Mary Wise; a sister, Moorene Boyd of Winnsboro; daughter Judi Baxter Wadley and husband Larry of Camas, Wash.; a son, Bill of Seattle, Wash.; daughter Anita Figlar and husband Dick of Pickens, S.C.; four grandchildren, Selenna and Ward Baxter and Dave and Rick Figlar.
Bill was preceded in death by his sisters Loveda and Ruth and his brother HR.
Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice or to the Camas Lions Club, in care of Harvey Keene, President, P.O. Box 964, Camas, Wash. 98607.
To send condolences or sign the online guest book, visit www.straubsfuneralhome.com .
Submitted by Elaine Nall Bay
