Billy Ray Ables

Bill Ables, a devoted husband, veteran, lifelong learner, and public servant, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, at the age of 94. His life was marked by love, quiet strength, and a deep commitment to service.

Born in Olin, Texas, and raised in Hico, Bill was the eldest son of Elmer Ables and Eunice (Hillhouse) Ables. After graduation in 1948, at just 17 years old, he began his military journey by joining the United States Air Force. He served actively from September 1948 until June 1949, receiving an honorable discharge due to family hardship after the passing of his younger brother, James Kenneth Ables, in March 1949. Bill was recalled to active duty in November 1950 and served until December 1951. He continued his military service in the Air Force Reserve—both active and inactive—until 1962, receiving honorable discharges throughout.

Education was one of Bill’s lifelong passions. He attended Tarleton State College from 1952 to 1953, graduated from Coyne Radio and Television School in Chicago in 1954, and later completed a two-year correspondence program with the Cleveland Institute of Electronics in the 1960s. He earned his General Class Amateur Radio Operator license (HAM) in 1960 and a Second Class FCC License in 1965. In later years, Bill developed a fascination with computers and became something of a tech enthusiast—always curious, always learning.

Professionally, Bill worked at Heffley Radio-TV in Stephenville, Texas, from 1954 to 1965. He then began a long and faithful career with the U.S. Postal Service, where he served his community with dedication until his retirement in 1996.

On December 16, 1961, Bill married the love of his life, Martha, at Alexander Baptist Church in Alexander, Texas. It was a date and time—5:00 p.m.—he often fondly recalled. For 64 years, they were inseparable, spending nearly every moment together outside of work. Their marriage was a testament to deep love, unwavering friendship, and shared purpose.

Bill was a member of Zion Hill Community Church in Weatherford, Texas, where he found both faith and fellowship.

He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, quiet wisdom, and steadfast devotion to his family, his country, and his values. Those fortunate enough to have known Bill carry forward the legacy of a life lived with humility, dignity, and grace.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers James Kenneth Ables, Jackie Lynn Ables, and Bobby Gayle Ables. He is survived by his beloved wife Martha Ables; his brother Harold Dwayne Ables and wife Paula, Sister-in-law Joyce Martin and husband Chuck, nephew Michael Ables and wife Kelly and niece Suzanne Foreman and husband Danny and all the other nieces and nephews who had a common love for him.