With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of William J. Pay of Cabot, Arkansas, on September 28, 2026.
Bill is survived by his daughter, Melissa Pay (Michelle); grandchildren, Madeline, Michael, Emma, Finn, and Sophie; mother, Dorothy Pay; sisters, Bonnie Bolinger (Randy), Debbie Corbishley (Orvil), and Virginia Wawak (Karl); brothers-in-law, Stacy Key (April) and Scott Key (Liz); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Pay, and his father, Joe Pay.
Bill was a man of character. He loved his wife deeply and faithfully cared for her with gentleness and compassion throughout her prolonged battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was a caregiver to all those around him. He even kept a standing date each Monday morning to fill his grandchildren’s vehicles with gas, simply so he could start their week with a smile, a hug, and one less thing for them to worry about. Bill was the living embodiment of Philippians 2:3–4.
Bill was a geologist both professionally and as a hobby. He loved the outdoors, with some of his favorite places being Colorado, the Grand Canyon, and the pasture where he enjoyed raising his calves. A devoted National Parks enthusiast, Bill explored the country with his beloved wife, wearing out an unknown number of hiking boots as they took in the beauty of nature along paths both popular and less traveled.
Bill was also a prankster who took great enjoyment in the gradual buildup of a practical joke—sometimes setting one in motion weeks or even months before the eventual payoff and the big laugh at the end.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the many friends who supported and loved Bill throughout the years, as well as to his excellent medical staff for their compassionate care.
The family will hold a private graveside memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Bill’s memory to the Grand Canyon Conservancy.
5 Comments
Dear Virginia and family,
Joe and I are thinking of you. I will always have a special place in my heart for Bill as he came to my Dads funeral. He was very kind.
Much love, Joe and Vickie
Debbie–I am so sorry you’ve lost your dear brother. My prayers will be with you & your family during this sad time. Love, Sandra Weatherly
I think I speak for both my family (who taught, worked, and partied with both Bill and Susan), and my classmates of 1976 who remembered Bill at our recent 50th Class Reunion. Bill was a good man, friend, and try let loved the outdoors. He will be missed. Prayers of comfort and peace to his family.
I am saddened to learn of Bill‘s passing. I have always thought highly of Bill and enjoyed all the time that I had with him over the years. Beginning in grade school and going through high school. And then later when he and Susan married and they had their first child. I know the family is saddened that is lost. But God is faithful, who will sustain us during every difficult time and comfort us through his Holy Spirit.
Very sad to here of Bills passing, we worked side by side several years for ARDOT. Remai ed in contact with him after he left. Great friend I will miss. My condolences to the family.
Comments are closed.