Bill Batson

Bill Batson, 83, of Greenbrier, went to be with his heavenly father on Friday, Dec. 12, 2014. He was born Oct. 24, 1931, in Greenbrier to the late Pierce and Alma Batson. He was preceded in death by his brother and three sisters, Patton Batson, Winnie Cato, Mary Elizabeth Wilson and Elsie Faye Williams, as well as his granddaughter, Kristi Tilley. A lifelong resident of Greenbrier, Bill is survived by his wife Sue Brannan Batson, his high school sweetheart who he was happily married to for 63 years. He is also survived by three daughters and two son-in-laws: Kathy and Danny Newland of Dennard, Karen and Randy Newland of Greenbrier, and Lisa Baton Dillard of Greenbrier; seven grandchildren and their spouses, Heather and Adam Hollis, Josh and Rachel Newland, Will and Ashley Newland, Lacey and Jared Standridge, Wes and Randi Newland, Abby and Cody Andrews and Audrey Dillard; 12 great- grandchildren; as well as a host of other family and friends. Bill was a faithful, active member of Immanuel Baptist Church. He spent many years in education as a coach, administrator, and a supervisor with the Arkansas Department of Education where he retired. He then continued his passion as a building contractor and dealing in real estate for many years. He loved sports, his family and enjoyed being called "Daddy Bill" and "B" by his many grandchildren and all their friends. He will be remembered as a man of strong faith who served as an example of Godliness and generosity to his family and community. He has left a legacy of integrity, compassion for others and infinite wisdom. He has touched the lives of so many by his quiet, gentle, and loving demeanor. Visitation will be Monday, Dec. 15 from 5-8 p.m. at Immanuel Baptist Church in Greenbrier. A memorial service in celebration of Bill's life will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m., at Immanuel Baptist Church in Greenbrier with Brother Tony Crocker and Brother Gaylon King officiating Pallbearers will be grandsons Josh Newland, Will Newland, Wes Newland, Jared Standridge, Cody Andrews and Adam Hollis. Burial will be at Needs Creek Cemetery near Springhill. Memorials may be made to Immanuel Baptist Church Building Fund. Online Guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.