William Tenison, Jr.

William “Bill” Tenison (aka Junior), 79, of Vilonia, AR (originally from Carlisle, AR) passed away peacefully at his home on June 3, 2018 after a long battle with heart and lung disease.  Bill is survived by his devoted and caring wife of 45 years, Linda.  Children are Wes Sowerbrower (Amanda) of Springdale, AR, Tammy Tenison of Carlisle, AR, David Collier-Tenison (Shannon) of Little Rock, AR and special daughters Robin Hall (John) of Conway, AR, and Bonnie Wetzel (Rob) of Rolesville, NC.  Bill has nine grandchildren who were his pride and joy, including Kirsten, Conner, Casey, Sam, Jacob, Evan, Will, Rachel and Ryan.  Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Custer William and Marie Tenison.  He is also preceded in death by a sister, Patsy.  Bill is survived by one brother, Danny Tenison (Earlene), two nieces, a nephew, and many other extended family.

Bill was born in Osceola, AR on January 7, 1939. He attended Carlisle High School where he played football and participated in track.  Bill served in the Air Force from 1957-1961, flying on B-52s and representing his base in football against other bases in Europe.  Bill worked for ArkLa Gas Company for many years before retiring to run an excavating company with his brother in Hazen, AR.  Bill also proudly served on the Vilonia City Council for several years. Bill loved to fly, was an avid NASCAR fan, and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

Services will be held Thursday, June 7 at 11:00 at Hamilton Missionary Baptist Church in Carlisle with burial immediately following at Hamilton Cemetery. Visitation is at 10:00 at the church.  Online guestbook, www.boydfuneralhome.net.

A special thank you to longtime friend Jon Crawford and the ladies with Arkansas Hospice.