of Proctor, AR
April 21, 1944 - October 11, 2021
We regret to announce the passing of William L. O'Donnell, 77, of Proctor, AR on October 11,2021.
William is survived by his loving and loyal wife, Paula, his daughter Cynthia, granddaughter Rachel and her husband along with brother in law and his wife, many nieces, nephews and cousins.
William was predeceased by his son, Christopher, mother and father, Lillian and Dow, and his brothers Harold and Victor.
William (or OD as they called him) was a highly decorated Vietnam era veteran who served more than 20 years in the Army, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. Aside from his family, William's greatest devotion was to the military.
Anyone who knew William, knew that he was a good man, a very kind, honest and noble man. He had an immense passion for horses, collecting vintage fountain pens, European cross country bicycling and always had a great story to share. William's family and friends will miss him more than words can say.
He will be forever remembered. No services will take place, as he requested, but we do appreciate your love and support during this difficult time.
I am writing my memories of Bill while we are visiting with Paula for Thanksgiving. I miss him even more. We met Bill and Paula over 49 years ago in Huntsville, AL. Bill and Dan were best of Army buddies and friends. Bill became a very special person to our family especially in Germany.
He helped us raise our boys, Danny and Paul. He was so helpful, for example, he would drive me to church on Sunday to Merrell Barracks. Bill was so kind, generous and caring that he will be missed by all of our family.
Growing up as an Army brat for the first five years of life, “Uncle†Bill was always one of my favorite people, and along with “Aunt†Paula, we had a lot of fun and no small amount of mischief in Germany.
From my perch atop his shoulders, he would take me on many adventures, and I can still remember him belting out a chorus of “Hit the road, Jack†when the evenings came to an end.
Back stateside, my brother and I would always look forward to visits whenever we passed by his place, or he came to visit Dallas.
He was truly a great influence in my life, and one of the most dynamic and charismatic people you could hope to meet.
I will miss him and hope to find as much joy in life as he did.
We are missing one of our oldest and dearest friends. We will always have memories of him as a good man and loyal companion.
Our heartfelt condolences to you and the ODONNELL family. I will miss my friend very much. I was proud to serve with him in the Army. I was proud to know OD for 50 years. I am proud that I can call Bill my friend.
I will miss you.
My heartfelt condolencences go out to the entire family. May you be Resting Peacefully, Mr. O'Donnell. ðŸ™â™¥ï¸ðŸ™
We are so sorry for your family heartbreaking loss. Our sincere condolences.
Much â¤ï¸
RIP Bill your family will dearly miss you
Mr. William O'Donnell I personally never met you however your Beautiful Daughter Cindy is So much your twin. Rest in Eternal Peace..
My prayers are with you and I know he will always look out for you. I believe he was a hero first class and that God will forever hold him in his arms. Love as always, Mamma Rogers xoxo
May you Rest In Peace. Thank you for your many years of service to our country.
He will definitely be missed... I enjoyed listening to all of the stories he shared anytime I was able to visit with him. Love and sincerest sympathies Monica Niemann and family
Mr O’Donnell, although I did not personally know you, I feel you are one of our country ‘s heros. You served our country for not the standard years required but you went beyond and gave your all. I salute you Mr. O’Donnell for your service and dedication to your country, and I Thank You Sir.
I will look after Paula and all that you left behind, as I know you are looking out for us from above. Thank you for being a great man, I am proud to be your daughter and will carry you with me everywhere I go. I am my father's daughter and I love you with all that I am.