William Newton Bellamy, beloved husband, father, brother, friend, and “Guapo,” peacefully entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on May 12, 2025. And if you knew Bill, you know he didn’t just walk through the pearly gates—he showed up in his best boots with a tall glass of Johnny Walker.
Born on September 26, 1943, to Jess Dee Bellamy and Helen Spence Bellamy, Bill lived a life defined by service, wit, and a true love of the outdoors. A proud Longhorn alumnus and U.S. Air Force veteran, Bill cherished his time in nature. Whether he was leading scuba dives in Cozumel or working cattle on the McKinney Ranch in Delmita, Texas, his appreciation for God’s creation—be it open pasture or open ocean—was undeniable.
With both parents respected schoolteachers in Lampasas, Bill came up with his own version of the “Three R’s”: Ranching, Rover, and Rocks. Ranching wasn’t just a way of life—it was home; the rhythm of it suited him. Rover referred to all the loyal dogs that never left his side—we’re pretty sure he liked them better than most people. The Rocks? He had a lifelong curiosity for geology, collecting stones wherever he went—and he never turned down a good scotch served over a couple of them, either.
An avid hunter and lifelong outdoorsman, Bill never stopped researching the land, the wildlife, and the world around him. His life was one of quiet wonder, steady learning, and deep connection to the places and creatures he loved.
Those who grew up alongside him would say he had a sharp aim, a quicker wit, and an uncanny ability to talk his way out of just about anything. His heart was firmly rooted in Jesus, but that didn’t stop him from collecting a lifetime’s worth of stories—some saintly, some sideways, and all worth retelling.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents and is lovingly remembered by his wife, Dana; daughter, Brenda Marafioto, and her husband, Kevin; grandchildren, Chase McKinney Marafioto and Rylie Grace Marafioto; brother, Robert “Bob” Bellamy; and a wide circle of extended family and lifelong friends, each of whom carries a piece of his spirit.
Friends may visit with Bill’s family on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., with a celebration of life service at 2:00 p.m., at Porter Loring North Funeral Chapel, 2102 N Loop 1604 E, San Antonio, TX 78232
