Bill R. Pate

Bill R. Pate passed into eternal life on March 21, 2018. He was born on January 6, 1927, to Andy and Vena Pate of Marshall, Arkansas. He was an only child but enjoyed a close relationship with many cousins which extended and enriched his early years. Bill grew up in Searcy County where he was known for his love of sports. He entered the Navy out of high school and attended basic training in San Diego, Calif. He completed Landing Craft School and he was assigned to the USS Randal during WWII. He made a number of south sea island assignments earning the Seaman First Class Medal, the American Area Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Area Ribbon, and the Medal of Good Conduct. Two of his most memorable military experiences include going through typhoons and losing five other small ships during the campaign. Following his military service, Bill attended the University of Central Arkansas (then ASTC) on the G.I. Bill. He would later continue his education earning a Specialist degree from the University of Arkansas. Bill always enjoyed the school business. Some of his first teaching and coaching opportunities included: Marshall, Searcy, Clinton, and Conway. In 1966 he accepted his first job assignment at UCA as Director of Placement. His final area of commitment was as interim President at UCA in 1986. Bill's Professional legacy was one of support and encouragement to the students, faculty and the community he served. Bill was married to the former Betty Shumate Pate of Conway for 63 years. They were married at First Methodist Church in Conway by Dr. C.N. Reves. Together they dedicated their lives in service to education, both within and beyond the walls of the traditional schoolhouse. Bill was also known as a highly respected community leader. He served on numerous boards and actively committed to many civic groups throughout his lifetime. Over the years, Bill remained active in sports and athletics. He refereed ballgames throughout the county and state. He was an avid golfer and equally enjoyed attending the sporting events and activities of his grandchildren and great- grandchildren. Bill is survived by two daughters: Dr. Toran Isom (James), and Kerry Stitch (Mark). His grandchildren include: Brandon (Danyelle) Lupkey and Kingwood, Texas; Bo Stitch of Georgetown, Texas; Daria Bailey (Brent) and great-grandchildren; Loral, Caelyn, Alivia, Blake and Pate Bailey of Conway. His parents, his wife, Betty, and his grandson, Cabe Isom, preceded him in death. Visitation will be Sunday, March 25th from 5:00-7:00P.M. and a service honoring his life will be held at 10:00A.M. on Monday, March 26th at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Conway. Burial will follow at Crestlawn Memorial Park in Conway. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to First United Methodist Church, Antioch Baptist Church, Lifeword Media Ministries, or a charity of your choice.