William Barton's Obituary
Bill was born in Sieper, Louisiana to his parents Willie Barton and Bobbie Burns Barton. He grew up spending most his life in and around Leesville, Louisiana. He passed peacefully at his home, exiting stage left with one last grin and a punchline none of us quite caught.
A simple man with a complex sense of humor, Bill spent 43 years married to the love of his life, Margret Willis ---his rock, his audience, and often his straight man. He often called her his “parole officer”. Together they raised four kids, a few eyebrows, and more than a few animals.
He was a drummer with rhythm, an Elvis impersonator with a swagger. Bill performed in Vegas once and Branson, MO wanted him, but he declined. He was proud of the fact that he raised a large sum of money by preforming for at a fund raiser for the American heart Association. He was the family’s resident entertainer. If you were around Bill, you were either laughing or wondering what just happened.
His talents extended beyond music and mimicry---he once dabbled in the pharmaceutical arts (unlicensed, unfortunately), a detour that earned him several unpaid vacations and some unforgettable stories
To his credit, he never claimed to be perfect. In fact, he claimed to be a “professional amateur.” But he was perfect at making people laugh, remembering the wildest stories and disappearing when it came time to move a couch.
Animals never had a better friend in Bill. Whether it be fur or feathers it always had a place in his heart. Often he would feed all the strays in the neighborhood; animals and humans included.
After Margaret’s passing, Bill found love again, then found Jesus, and finally found peace. He lived the rest of his days with purpose, joy, and enough jokes to last several afterlives.
He leaves behind his children and spouse, a trail of laughter, and a legacy of living out loud. Bill never went quietly---he went with a drumroll, a smile, and peace in his heart.
Bill was proceeded in death by his parents, daughter Bobbye Michelle Barton, his wife of 43 years, Margaret Barton, Bro-In-Law Russell Ward.
He is survived by his wife, Victoria Bolton-Barton of Mineral Wells, TX Daughter Billye Ebbeson and her husband David Ebbeson of Leesville, LA, Sons William Barton and wife Celina of Claremore, OK, Kristopher Barton of Dallas, TX, Step-son Jason Seagroves and wife Christine of Amarillo, TX and a sister Betty Ward of Leesville, LA, seven grandchildren, one great grandchild, and one niece.
Graveside services will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 10 AM at Laurel Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in Leesville, LA under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home.
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