Billy John Booth (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Billy “Bill” John Booth, 85, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026.Bill was born on September 26, 1940, in Jenny Lind, Arkansas, to Alta Williams and Bill Booth. He grew up with a strong work ethic and a love for the land that stayed with him throughout his life. Bill married the love of his life, Linda Booth, on October 8, 2002. Together, they built a life centered on family, hard work, and lasting memories. Bill began his career working for a welding and HVAC company before becoming a property developer with his good friend and business partner, Tom Morgan, at MD Management. Later in life, he pursued his passion for farming and ranching at Rocking B Ranch in Arkansas. One of his proudest accomplishments was building the ranch from the ground up with his own two hands. Though retirement was always the plan, Bill continued working long after most would have slowed down, finally retiring to enjoy life at the lake. Bill proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Beyond his military service and ranching career, he was deeply involved in the cutting horse community and was a proud member of the Cutting Horse Association, where he won numerous awards and earned the respect of fellow competitors. His love of horses, cattle, and ranch life remained a constant throughout his life. Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, hay farming, and spending time outdoors. He will be remembered for his hardworking nature, stubborn determination, ornery sense of humor, and kind heart. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Alta Williams and Bill Booth; his brother, Jerry Booth; and his sister, Donna Morris. He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Booth; his children, William “Billy” Booth and wife Jill, Annette Booth, Susan Booth, Robert “Bobby” Watkins and wife Kourtni, Jonathan Watkins, and Carly Booth; his grandchildren, Sarah Swartzwelder and husband William, Kelly Booth, Ashley Chichester and husband Zach, Samantha Watkins, Wesley Watkins, William Watkins, Khloe Watkins, Josie Watkins, Wylan Watkins, and Evalette Rist; his sister, Saundra Coble and husband Roger; eight great-grandchildren; and many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly. Bill’s legacy is one of service, hard work, perseverance, and love. He leaves behind a family who cherished him, a ranch that stands as a testament to his life’s work, and countless memories that will be treasured for generations. The lessons he taught to never give up and to always be the hardest-working person in the room will continue to guide those who loved him. His heart was bigger than life, and his friendships reached far and wide. Funeral services will take place at 10:00 AM on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar followed by graveside services at 5:00 PM at Jenny Lind Cemetery in Sebastian County, Arkansas
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