William Lee “Bill” Gleason, 74, went peacefully to be with the Lord on February 24, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was born October 24, 1949 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Bill’s patent selfless loving nature nurtured his roots, his awe struck wonder and love of the journey fueled his life’s adventures. As a young man, he served his country in the U.S. Army as a combat medic in the Vietnam War. He had a successful career in professional sales, late in life he traveled cross-country piloting wide load trucks with his parrot Jake.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Lee Gleason and Jim Ann (Kersey) Gleason of Witcherville, Arkansas. His memory will always be cherished by his beloved wife of 47 years, Virginia Louise (Clay) Gleason; his son, Sundance Gleason; his daughters, April Gleason and Jade (Gleason) Ryles and son-in-law, Jessie Ryles; grandchildren, Malone, Jax, Palmer and Jase; his sister, Carol; brother, Bob and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Burial with military honors will be held 11 a.m., Friday, March 1 at the Fort Smith National Cemetery followed by a Celebration of Life at 1 p.m. at the Bell Park pavilion in Greenwood. Cremation is under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.mcconnellfh.com.
