Billy J. Bishop January 11, 1926 – September 19, 2023

Billy J. Bishop January 11, 1926 – September 19, 2023

Billy J. Bishop, co-founder of Billy’s Western Wear, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday September 19, 2023, in Boerne, Texas.

At age 97, Billy had been married to his beloved wife of 67 years. He was a man of character, dedicated to his faith, his family, and our freedoms.

His life went far beyond the titles of Businessman, Soldier, Airman, Veteran, and Civil Servant. He was a family man, devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. There was one commitment which altered Billy’s life and set him up for successes beyond his dreams. At age 17 Billy received Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior as he walked down the aisle of a Billy Graham Crusade. This decision became the cornerstone of strength for the rest of his life.

Billy loved his country and dedicated 37 years to Kelly Air Force Base, in San Antonio, Texas. During this time, Billy served in World War II in the U.S. Army. He became a member of C Company 413th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division Timberwolves, known for their night fighting.

His was a unit that moved 175 miles in just 15 days, liberating many towns and villages. The Timberwolves service was 195 consecutive days of combat with many victories and hardships along the way.

Billy’s service continued as he served in the Korean War in the Air Force for nine months. Later, he also participated in the 1972 San Antonio Air Material Area Project Enhance and Enhance Plus, which was a key component in the stabilization of South Vietnam at the end of the Vietnam War.

After his retirement from Kelly Air Force Base, Billy and his wife co-founded Billy’s Western Wear, which has successfully serviced Boerne and Kerrville, Texas, and has become a legend in the Texas Hill Country.

Although he retired officially at age 90 from Billy’s Western Wear, his legacy has and will continue on through Billy’s wife, daughter and sonin- law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Billy’s heart was of a true hero, a real man of God, and a warrior for his country. Billy will always be remembered for faith, family and freedom. He was a warrior of great faith, he displayed enduring love for his family and the communities he served and gave selfless sacrifice for our freedoms.

Funeral services, viewing, and visitation will be held at the Vada Hagee Prayer Chapel, Cornerstone Church, 18755 Stone Oak Parkway, San Antonio, Texas on Wednesday September 27, 2023. Viewing and visitation will begin at 9 a.m. and the service will begin at 10 a.m.

Following the service there will be a luncheon in the reception hall. Graveside services will be at 2:45 p.m. at the Thompsonville Cemetery in Thompsonville, Texas.

Condolences & Flowers go to: Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 N. Loop 1604 E., San Antonio, Texas 78232, which can be reached at 210-495-8221.