Ash, William A. September 26, 1948 - February 26, 2025

William A. Ash was born September 26, 1948, in Preston, MO, to Wylie and Opal (Kinnion) Ash. He passed away February 26, 2025, in Springfield, Missouri.

As a boy Bill loved playing baseball with his childhood friends. His love for the game continued into adulthood. He played on his church softball league for many years and enjoyed pick-up games with family and friends.

Bill married Patsy McDaniel on July 26, 1968, and to this union 3 children were born: Billy Ash, Connie Byrne, and Steven Ash. Bill became a believer in Christ as an adult and shortly after, began working as a Custodian at Heartland Baptist Church where his children also attended school. The students at Heartland Christian School loved interacting with him due to his ornery character and teasing nature. To this day they still have fond memories of “Mr. Bill”.  Bill and Patsy served many years in the children’s ministry while his kids were growing up and became good friends with many members of their church family.

Bill retired from Foxwood Springs Senior Living Community, where he worked Maintenance and Security for over 15 years. He often rode his Harley Davidson to work and greatly enjoyed his time here. He became a friendly face for all the residents and made it a point of going above and beyond to help them out whenever they needed him. When his grandson was born he proudly took him around the entire facility to show him off to as many people as he find.

After retiring Bill and Patsy moved to Collins Missouri to enjoy living the country life on their small farm. He was an outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish but in later years he was happiest on his tractor mowing the grass. Bill was a simple man who loved the Lord, his family, and his country. He was also a proud Vietnam Veteran and enjoyed talking with fellow Veterans about their service and experiences.

He is preceded in death by Wylie Ash- his father. Opal Ash – his mother. His siblings – Martha Ash, John Ash, George Ash, and Terry Ash.

He is survived by his wife Patsy Ash, his 3 children Billy Ash, Connie Byrne, and Steven Ash, and his grandson Braden Byrne. As well as his siblings Irene Heiter (sister), Mack Ash (brother), Wayne Ash (brother) and many nieces, nephews and many friends.