William "Bill" Eddy Brookshire

William "Bill" Eddy Brookshire was born on October 17, 1927, in the rural heart of Coryell County, Texas—land that would later become Fort Hood. He was the fourth of six children born to William Lafayette Brookshire and Mary Eddy Cook Brookshire. He passed away on Thursday, June 5, 2025 in Oklahoma City, OK.

Bill joined the Army Air Corps at a very young age, which later became the U.S. Air Force, serving his country with distinction during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War—a rare and honorable legacy of service across three major conflicts.

On October 27, 1950, Bill married the love of his life, Shirley Ann Lawrence. Together, they raised 4 children. After retiring from the Air Force, Bill began a second career with the Federal Bureau of Prisons in El Reno, Oklahoma, in 1967. He started as a guard and retired as a counselor, earning the respect of his peers and the inmates alike.

Following his retirement in 1986, Bill and Shirley found joy in the world of antiques. They set up booths across El Reno and Oklahoma City and were regulars at flea markets.

In 2007, Bill was baptized and became a member of Yukon Church, where he was a devoted attendee and faithful servant.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings: Duward Brookshire, Rubin Brookshire, Virginia Pierce, Johnnie Lee Beimer, and Donald Brookshire; and his beloved son, Douglas Brookshire.

He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 75 years, Shirley Ann Brookshire; his son, Mike Brookshire of Yukon; daughters, Leann Murchison and husband, David of Amarillo, Texas; and Tisha Cypert and husband Kenneth of Ada, OK—ten grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson, plus many nieces and nephews.

Bill will be remembered for his strong opinion, remarkable stories, harmonica playing, strong work ethic, and a legacy of love and service that spans generations. He lived a full and honorable life—a true testament to resilience, loyalty, and kindness.

The memorial service will be Saturday, June 14, at 10 AM at Yukon Bible Church, 11715 NW 10th St, Yukon, OK. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, June 20, 2025 at Fort Sill National Cemetery, Elgin, OK, where he will receive full military honors.