Bill Loggins

Bill Loggins, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community leader, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at the age of 97. 

Billy Gene Loggins was born on August 21, 1927, in Corsicana, to the late Jack and Amelia Loggins. Bill grew up on his family’s dairy farm. There, he cultivated the values of hard work, integrity, and kindness that would define his life. In 1944, at just 17 years old, Bill enlisted in the United States Navy with his parents’ blessing to serve his country during World War II. He proudly served aboard the USS Sigourney, forging lifelong friendships and a deep sense of duty. After his military service, Bill pursued higher education, beginning at Southwestern University in Georgetown and later transferring to Baylor University. It was at Baylor that he met the love of his life, Ollie Mae Flake. The two married on March 5, 1948, beginning a remarkable 75-year journey together, grounded in faith, love, and devotion to family.

Bill’s career in education was as impactful as it was extensive. He began teaching in Gilliland, Texas, and later moved with Ollie to Bremond, Dawson, and Malakoff, raising their four children- Sherry, Linda, Mary Anne, and Mike- along the way. In 1962, the family settled in Plano, where Bill distinguished himself as a football coach, science and chemistry teacher, and principal. His career culminated in his role as superintendent of Prosper ISD, where he served with dedication until his retirement in 1986.

After retirement, Bill and Ollie moved to Gatesville in 1992, where they embraced ranch life and became cherished members of the community. Bill poured his energy into countless organizations including the First United Methodist Church, Gatesville ISD School Board, Lions Club, Coryell Hospital Volunteer, Meals on Wheels, Silver-Haired Legislature, and sixty-five years with the Masonic Lodge. He never missed a Hornet Football game or a Baylor Women’s Basketball game. The NCAA Women’s Basketball Finals coincided with their wedding anniversary and became a yearly dual celebration trip.

Bill’s greatest joy, however, was his family. He and Ollie created a foundation of love and togetherness, filling their lives with moments of joy and tradition. From the annual Christmas nativity plays, where Grandpa read the story, to Easter egg hunts in their expansive front yard, beach vacations, and fishing at the ranch, Bill’s family always came first.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ollie Mae Loggins; his parents, and a sister, Hazel.

Bill is survived by his daughters, Sherry Edwards, and husband, Malcolm, Linda Garvey and husband, Jamie, Mary Anne Leib and husband, Tom; son, Mike Loggins, and wife, Laura Ferri; grandchildren, James Hammack and wife, Kendra, Lauren Grogman and husband, Ryan, Laura Landis and husband, Zack, Jason Garvey and wife, Julie, Bethany Hammack, Joel Edwards and wife, Rachel, Micah Alexander and husband, Adam, Carrie Garvey, Jeffrey Edwards, Katy Garvey and wife, Kim, Annie Loggins, Emily Wuenschel and husband, Matthew. Bill also leaves behind twelve great-grandchildren.

Funeral services celebrating Bill’s extraordinary life will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday, January 3, 2025 at Scott’s Funeral Home, with Rev. Zack Landis officiating. Visitation with family will be one hour prior to services at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Gatesville Masonic Cemetery, with Naval Military Honors and Masonic Rites, under the auspices of Gatesville Masonic Lodge #197 A.F. & A.M. 

Bill Loggins will be remembered for his enduring faith, adoration of his family, his love of football and other sports, and his enjoyment of reading and learning. Bill’s family wish to extend their sincere thanks to all the staff, nurses, and doctors who cared for him. They also thank the caregivers of Coryell Health Rehab Living and Bluebonnet Hospice.

Memorials may be sent to the Methodist Children’s Home,1111 Herring Dr., Waco, TX 76708.