Billy D. Chism

Bill was born in Llano County on August 5, 1934. He grew up around Bluffton, Lampasas and Burnet. Billy married his wife, Shirley, in 1972.

In his earlier years, he was a heavy equipment operator helping build many roadways, including Interstate 35, and 1431 between Lago Vista and Jonestown, among many other roads that you drive every day. During one of these road projects, he was a part of the crew that discovered Inner Space Caverns in Georgetown. Shortly after that, he began his own company, Chism Excavation servicing various construction projects in and around Burnet. He enjoyed anything outdoors from working in his garden to travelling and fishing with his brothers-in-law. He had a huge passion for cars and trucks, rebuilding and restoring them. He was a well-known, respected, and loved member of Burnet and Llano Counties, where he never met a stranger. He will always be remembered as a sweet, God-loving, hard working man, and will be missed by all who knew him.

Billy is survived by his wife of 47 years, Shirley Chism of Burnet, daughters Nelda Hawthorne of Georgetown, Chris Tweedle of Salado, sons-in-law Johnny Blend of Burnet, and Gary Hawthorne of Georgetown, brothers Glen and Jimmy Chism of Burnet, sister Thelma Milam of Burnet, as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is proceeded in death by his parents Glen and Olivia Chism, sister Helen Williams, and daughter Lorie Blend.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you please donate to Burnet High School FFA Club in care of Burnet CISD at 208 East Briar St.