Billy Don Rister

Billy “Bill” Don Rister, 88, of Stephenville, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, just five days shy of his 89th birthday. Bill was born on November 8, 1937, in Abilene, Texas, to the late Edgar Rister and Pollyanna Rister. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose kindness, loving heart, and dedication to his family will forever be remembered by those who knew him. Bill dedicated an extraordinary 80 years of his life to the art of sign painting, a craft that became both his lifes work and a lasting family legacy. Sign painting was more than just a profession to Bill; it was a family tradition and a passion shared across generations. His talent and artistry left their mark on places and landmarks recognized by countless people. Among his notable accomplishments was creating the iconic Dr Pepper girl sitting on a swing. His work also included signs for the Texas Rangers, Dallas Cowboys Stadium, and all of the signs at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. Through his skill, creativity, and dedication, Bill created a legacy that will continue to be seen and appreciated for generations.

Beyond his work, Bill was a very kind and loving man who loved his family with all his heart and soul. His greatest treasures were the people he loved, and he leaves behind a family who will forever cherish the memories, lessons, and love he gave them. Throughout his life, Bill also found great enjoyment in deer hunting and fishing, two pastimes he loved and enjoyed doing on his own beautiful property. Whether spending time outdoors or surrounded by the people he loved, Bill treasured the simple things that made life special.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Lillie Taylor Rister; his daughters, Theresa Quarles and husband Ron, Leslie Dailey, and Dionne Rister and husband Brian; and his grandchildren, Chance Kite and wife Boni, Candace Evans and husband Eric, Lance Kite, Clint Kite and wife Edna, Jake Young and wife Shaspen, Brandon Young and wife Caitlin, Brandon Shipman and wife Jamie, Aly Dailey, and Richie Dailey and wife Tiff as well as 19 step grandkids. He is also survived by his stepdaughters, Diane Garrett and husband Danny, Kim Pearce and husband Kenneth, Lynda Kirby and husband Charles, and Brenda Ashburn and husband JaDon. Bill leaves behind 12 great-grandchildren: Emily, Juliet, Ethan, Lincoln, Clayton Ray, Shalen, Shayden, Scout, Cade, Raegan, Reese, and Hannah; 21 step-great-grandchildren; and one step-great-great-grandchild.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar Rister and Pollyanna Rister; and his siblings, Mildred Gertrude Ash, Doris Lucille Thacker, Geraldine Terry, Barbara Ann Rains, Edith Cannon, Edgar Arnold Rister (Potsie), Ernest James (Chubby), Harold Dean (Sonny), and Roger Dale (Red).

Though Bill’s hands may no longer paint, the work of those hands will remain throughout the years. His artwork can still be seen in places touched by his talent, his family will carry forward the legacy he helped build, and the love he gave so freely will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved. 

A service honoring the life of Billy Don Rister will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Stephenville Funeral Home Chapel.