Billy Hoyt Kouns

Bill Kouns, 91, passed away Friday, May 20, 2011 in Midland, Texas. Billy Hoyt Kouns was born in Custer, Oklahoma on February 6, 1920 to William Rively Kouns and Morna Hoyt Kouns. He graduated from high school in Taloga, Oklahoma in 1937 and from Draughon’s Business School in 1938. He married LaVerta Richardson on November 20, 1942. He was a veteran of World War II, enlisting in the Coast Guard in July of 1942. He served in the Pacific aboard the U.S.S. Scott and was discharged in November 1945. Bill began working for Shell Oil Company in 1952 and retired as Division Land Manager in 1986. He was a long time member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, a member of the Petroleum Landman’s Association, and Shell Retired Employees. Bill enjoyed golf, playing bridge with friends, and travels throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Europe. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Ruth Barrett; wife, LaVerta Kouns and sons, James William Kouns and Stephen Hoyt Kouns. Bill is survived by his wife of 17 years, Jean Satterfield Kouns; daughter, Marilyn Long and husband K.O. of Abilene, TX; step-daughter, Marilyn Hightower and husband Bill of Midland; step-son, Larry Satterfield of Midland; grandchildren, Tracy Arnold and husband Eric of Nashville, TN; Scott Long and wife Meredith of Dallas; Ryan Hightower and Ashley Hightower, both of Dallas and a great-grandson, Griffin Arnold of Nashville, TN. Visitation will be Sunday, May 22, 2011, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Ellis Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Monday, May 23, 2011, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church with Reverend Kelly Inman officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home. Condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com. Bill was a kind and loving Christian man with a pleasant smile for everyone. Memorials may be given to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church Building Fund, 3011 W. Kansas, Midland, TX 79701.