William John Batka

WILLIAM JOHN BATKA BORN: FEBRUARY 19, 1930 IN BROOKLYN, NY DIED: DECEMBER 30, 2020 IN ALEXANDRIA, VA William Batka attended Manhattan High School of Aviation Trade in New York City, NY, graduating in 1948. He went to work for American Airlines in New York, first at the airport and then at the headquarters office downtown. He was promoted to management and sent to Washington National Airport in Washington, DC, where he was Manager of Reservations, then to the airport as Manager of Passenger Service, and finally, promoted to Manager of Airport Operations. In 1983, American opened a terminal in Jacksonville, FL, with Bill Batka as General Manager. He was there until his retirement in 1992. He was very proud to have served in the US Air Force from 1951 until 1955. He was stationed first in Texas, then California, and then England in the Air Force Police. He always appreciated the fact that American Airlines saved him a place in the company and his seniority included the years of service in the USAF. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Elizabeth Hearn Batka; his son, William John Batka, Jr.; his sister, Margaret O’Connor; and his mother, Susan Batka. He is survived by his wife, Carla Jones-Batka of Alexandria, VA; his daughter, Elizabeth McMillan (Gary) of Savannah, GA; his daughter, Jennifer Chappell (Sam) of Ivins, UT; step-son, Justin Jones (Shamar) of Virginia Beach, VA; step-son, Jason Jones (Erica) of Alexandria, VA; 12 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Bill will be missed by all the family and a host of dear friends. Bill was a member of the Volunteer Council for the National Symphony Orchestra and supported Carla in her activities with The National Society of Arts and Letters. He and Carla regularly attended Sunday church services at Belle View Baptist Church. Interment Ceremony of his ashes will be held at Arlington National Cemetery Crematorium sometime next summer. Arrangements will be made by Demaine Funeral Home. A reception to celebrate his life will be held at that time. The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be made to your favorite charity.