William Joseph Powers

William Joseph Powers, 85, passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2026 in Weatherford, Texas.

Bill was born on July 24, 1940 in Newark, New Jersey. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force and carried many memories of his youth as a member of the Civil Air Patrol.  As a Boy Scout, he attained the highest honor of Eagle Scout. 

After he completed his obligation in the Air Force he pursued his first love, that of flying. Bill started at PanAm Airlines as an aircraft mechanic and worked toward his pilot's license in his spare time. He also attended night classes and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle University in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Bill accepted his first aviation position as an aircraft mechanic for PanAm Airlines. He went on to Delta Air Lines where he earned a seat in the cockpit as Flight Engineer. His last employment before retirement was with Maimi Air International where he was the Director of Safety and Security. Bill had a wonderful 40 plus years career in flying.

Bill was a dedicated volunteer for the Edsall Class Veterans Association. Twice a year he made the 350 mile drive from Weatherford to Galveston to work a week as part of the restoration crew of the USS Stewart. He was Treasurer of the association at the time of his passing. It was hard work, but he loved the working relationships with the other volunteers and sharing their life experiences. Anyone who knew Bill will say that he could tell a story like no other. He was the best!

His volunteer activities extended closer to home as a member of CERT (County Emergency Response Team) in Parker County. He also loved this group and the challenges it presented. He made many lifelong friendships along the way.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William and Herta Powers; as well as his sisters, Dorothy Reid and Betty Powers. 

Survivors: Sister, Cathy Campbell; brother, Patrick Powers; wife, Wilma (Willie) Powers; step-son, Scott King and wife, Gayle King; step-daughter, Tracy Yates and husband, Michael Yates; granddaughter, Amanda Miller and husband, Kyle Miller, and their three sons (our great grandsons), Kason, Kohen, and Kole; sisters-in-law, Linda Archer, Kathy Barley, Cindy Pitts, Mary Watts, and Jan Jacobson; brother-in-law, Lynn Barley; and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Anyone who knew Bill would know that the three Grandsons absolutely made his life worth living.