William "Billy" Harold Scott, III, of Texarkana, passed away unexpectedly on December 29th. He was 68. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and generosity as a devoted husband, son, brother, father, and friend.

He grew up in Texarkana and graduated from Liberty Eylau High School. Even then, he was well known for his wit and good nature.

Billy was driven by love and service to others. At work and home, he approached everything with enthusiasm and commitment. He worked as a carman for Union Pacic railroad for over 30 years and loved helping the trains run on time. (He followed this passion after retirement by offering Texarkana's finest barrel railway service to hundreds of kids.)

He was devoted and loyal without exception. He spent many days on the water, doing his best to help Charles McDowell catch fish. It was a part-time job just keeping Kevin Cross in line at UP, at least to hear Billy tell it. Beyond his role as a family man and friend, he also enjoyed volunteering his time at Running WJ Ranch with his dad. He was "cheerful in all weathers, and never shirked a task." On the subject of Lonesome Dove, he loved and lived by Gus's creed: "It ain't dying I'm talkin' about; it's livin'."

Billy is survived by his wife Gayla Scott and his two daughters: Chrissy Mitchell & husband Angelo and Brandie Bristow & husband Brian. He is also survived by his grandchildren Cody and Cory Lewis; McKenzie Hinderer; Warren McBride; and Bella, Barrett, and Baylee Bristow, as well as two great-grandchildren: Lane and Lawson Lewis. He treated Gayla's sons Stefan and Ethan McBride as his own. He was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Bobbie Scott, as well as his brother Steve Scott and his late wife Debbie Scott.

His passing leaves a void in the lives of his family and friends, and the light of his memory will live on in their hearts. But as his lifelong motto and personal brand declared, he was "Just Passin' Thru." Rest in peace, Billy. You will be missed more than words can express.

Viewing is at Chapelwood Funeral Home from 5-7 pm on January 1st. A celebration of Billy's life will be held at Cross View Church on Thursday, January 2nd at 1pm. All who knew him are invited to attend, followed by graveside service at Chapelwood Cemetery.