Billy Howard Shipman died Saturday June 13 2009 in Abilene Texas. Family visitation will be Wednesday June 17th from 4:00-6:00 PM. Memorial Service will be Thursday June 18th at 11:00AM both being at North's Funeral Home located at 242 Orange St. Abilene TX. Burial will follow after the Memorial Service at Texas State Veterans Cemetery with full military honors. He was born October 22 1935 in Sulphur Oklahoma to Dee Azle and Jewel Shipman. He grew up in Burkeburnette Texas where he graduated from High School. He joined the Navy directly out of high school. Serving his country for 26 years. While in the Navy Bill married Wanzell Wilkins on May 30 1958. They moved to Abilene in 1973 along with their children. He served as a Navy recruitor and instructor for both the military and police force until his retirement in 1976. After his service with the Navy he worked for Dairy Queen as a Manager and Assistant District Supervisor until his retirement from Dairy Queen in 1996. He worked for Wal-Mart for several years until he completely retired in 1998. He loved Abilene and helping the community whenever health allowed. He was a long-standing member of the Abilene Founders Lions Club where he served as President for 2 years. He also was a member of the Abilene Bowling Association serving on the board for several years. He enjoyed bowling every Wednesday at Whitewood Lanes in Abilene and participating in many bowling tournaments. In later years he could be found drinking coffee at the Dairy Queen on Mockingbird with the ""coffee crew"" every afternoon telling lies and flirting with the girls. Bill is survived by his wife of 51 years Wanzell of Abilene; Sons Kenneth Shipman and wife Helen of Preston KY and Bradley Shipman and wife Anita of Charleston SC; daughter Sharon of Abilene TX. Adopted daughters Donna Lee and husband Jimmy of Abilene TX; Christine Parks and husband Allyn Layne of Anson TX and Mindy Turner and husband Roy of Abilene TX; brother Steve Shipman and wife Nina of Lexington KY; sister Reba Stubblefield and husband Paul of Myrtle Beach SC; sister Patricia Braley and husband Buford of Jefferson TX.. Grandchildren: Lacey Shipman; Christina Kimberly and Catherine Shipman; Joshua and Billy Pangburn; Jimmy Alan Christopher and Joshua Lee; Tracy Alyssa and Edward Layne; Jacob Matthew and Megan Turner. And one great grandchild due in September. The Family of Billy Shipman request that any gifts to be given in his name to the Abilene Founders Lions Club. Online condolences may sent to www.northsfuneralhome.com