Billy Hugh McAlister

Billy Hugh McAlister, 78, of Benton, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 29, 2025. He was born in Wellington, Collingsworth County, Texas to the late Bill H. and Sally Pearl (Tarvin) McAlister of Lonsdale, Arkansas. Also preceding him in death was his best friend and constant companion, his dog, Tripp. He called him his hairy child, and it really hurt to have to put him down.

Survivors include his loving wife of 28 years, Karon; one sister, Phyllis Heyer (David) of Conroe, Texas; three children from Texas: Trey McAlister (Jennifer), Brice McAlister, and Kecia McAlister Alamo; three stepchildren from Arkansas: Shana Denton (Buckley), Rodney Scarbrough (Tracy), and Raymond Garner (Brandy); several grandchildren, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Bill was a marine veteran and served in the Vietnam Era. He was employed for 19 years-until his death as an Advanced Industrial Wastewater Treatment Reclamation Operator with EEMA-O&M Service Group.  Some years back, Bill played bass guitar in a blues band called Three-Legged Dog. He could play multiple instruments, but his favorites were his many guitars. Any spare moments were spent strumming a few chords. It was good therapy for him. His passion for music was simply inspiring. He loved keeping up with current local and world events and could watch news networks all day-including the History channels.

Bill was a master of many trades over his lifetime and a truly passionate soul who lived with purpose and a heart that touched everyone around him. He loved his family, his job and co-workers, friends, and neighbors and appreciated all the help and concerns. It was important to him to say “Thanks”. He is loved dearly and will be remembered for his kindness, his warmth, his compassion, his wit, his many talents, his good humor, and his organizational and analytical abilities. Need a tool? – He had one. He believed in being prepared, no matter what. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace “Sweet Man” in your heavenly home.

“God saw you were getting tired, when a cure was not to be. So he wrapped his arms around you and whispered, “Come to me”. You didn’t deserve what you went through, so he gave you needed rest. God’s garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best.” By Frances and Kathleen Coelho

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. No services are planned at this time. A private burial will be held at a later date. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.