Alfred William Eustes Jr.

Chaplain, Colonel Alfred William “Bill” Eustes Jr., age 93, was joyfully reunited with his beloved wife, Peggy, in heaven on October 24, 2025. A proud veteran, devoted minister, and cherished patriarch, Bill’s life was defined by service, compassion, and an unwavering love for people.

To know Bill was to be known by him. He had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel seen and valued, whether through a warm greeting, a thoughtful question, or a genuine interest in their life story. He remembered names, children’s ages, hometowns, and dreams. He made friends wherever he went, and each one felt like family.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1932, Bill spent his early years in Florida, North Carolina, and Ohio. He returned to Florida after graduating from High School in Cleveland and earned an Associate of Arts degree from Saint Petersburg Junior College in 1955, followed by a Bachelor of Arts from Florida Southern College in 1956. He later received his Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University in 1960. His family was personally blessed as he officiated at the weddings of his children and grandchildren and baptized his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bill’s military journey began in 1951 when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He completed basic training at Sampson AFB, NY, and technical training at Sheppard AFB, TX, where he served as an instructor in the Aircraft and Engine School, including the B36 School. He left active duty to pursue his calling in ministry.

Licensed to preach in Wichita Falls, TX in 1953, Bill was ordained an Elder in the Florida Conference of the Methodist Church in 1960. His civilian ministry began in 1956 and included service to seven churches in Georgia and three in Florida.

In 1965, Bill returned to the Air Force as a Chaplain, serving at bases across the globe: Myrtle Beach, SC; Ubon, Thailand; Pope AFB, NC; Eielson AFB, AK; England AFB, LA; Izmir, Turkey; Maxwell AFB, AL; Columbus AFB, MS; Tinker AFB, OK; Rhein-Main AFB, Germany; and Carswell AFB, TX.

His military honors include six Meritorious Service Medals, three Air Force Commendation Medals, a Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon, four Outstanding Unit Ribbons, and three National Defense Medals.

After more than 33 years of service, including during three wars, Bill retired in 1991 with the rank of Colonel, shortly after Desert Storm. He continued his ministry as Chaplain at DFW Airport, offering interfaith pastoral care to employees and travelers until his retirement in 1995. Even then, his ministry never truly ended.

One of Bill’s favorite hymns was How Great Thou Art, a song that deeply reflected his faith and awe for God’s creation. Its powerful lyrics and stirring melody resonated with his spirit, often bringing comfort and inspiration to those around him. Whether sung in worship or quietly hummed during moments of reflection, the hymn was a meaningful part of his life and ministry. It served as a reminder of the greatness of God—a message Bill carried with him in every sermon, every conversation, and every act of kindness.

Throughout their life and especially following retirement, Bill and Peggy embraced the joy of travel, exploring Alaska, Florida, and beyond in their trailers and motorhomes. One of Bill and Peggy’s most unforgettable adventures took them along the rugged, unpaved Alaskan Highway—winding through Canada and into Alaska—on their way to Eielson AFB. With four young children from the ages 4 to 14 and two cats in tow, it was a journey filled with laughter, chaos, and memories that would last a lifetime. Bill and Peggy especially cherished the time they spent camping and traveling with their grandchildren, creating lasting memories around campfires. They were active members of the Western Wheelers 2 camping club, enjoying adventures throughout Texas with fellow campers. Their love for Disney World was legendary. They frequently combined their passion for camping with Disney World, staying at Fort Wilderness as often as possible. Bill remained active in Montgomery through the Veterans Group, Christian Motorcycle Association, Bible studies, and more. He was a familiar and beloved face to many in the local community, including restaurant staff who knew him well. Staff at Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish were especially dear to his heart as were the staff at the Chick-Fil-A in Magnolia, TX.

Bill was devoted to Peggy, his wife of over 67 years, who preceded him in death on May 4, 2023. He is survived by their children: Bill (Susan) of Conifer, CO; Steve (Mindy) of Fort Worth, TX; and Leanne Perry (Bruce) of Hurst, TX. He was preceded in death by sons Don (Kim) of Montgomery, TX (2024) and Robert Wesley “Bobby” of Williston, FL (1964).

He leaves behind nine grandchildren—Alicia, William, Wes (Megan), Bethany (Derrick), Christopher, Sean, Zachary, Eric (Elizabeth), and Hannah—and five great-grandchildren: Lawson, Emery, Sophia, McLane, and McKinley. He is also survived by his sisters Diane Lahoski and Vivian Neumann (Dave).

A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Metcalf Funeral Directors, 1801 E. White Oak Terrace, Conroe, TX. Bill will be laid to rest with full honors at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX, on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.