Billy Budd Waggoner, 81, passed away Feb. 6, 2022, in Midland, Texas, on his way home to his San Antonio, Texas, family. 

He is survived by two nieces, Courtney Michelle Waggoner and Christen Melissa Waggoner; nephew Jerry L. Waggoner II (children); and F. Irene Waggoner, widow of brother Jerry L. Waggoner; and nephew Randy Dale Waggoner, son of Tommy Ray Waggoner (deceased).

Prior to his final hospitalization, Bill was a daily visitor to the gym, dedicated to building and sustaining his body and mind. Called “Sensi” by some of his fellow gym enthusiasts, he shared various weight training and general physical improvement techniques, and nutrition advice. 

He worked with a physical therapist at the Pecos County Hospital in Fort Stockton, Texas, and was also an avid gun enthusiast and an accomplished gunsmith.

Before his golden years, Bill spent 15 years in restaurant management with several major chains, and spent 16 years as a bartender. Married to Carol Sue Waggoner (deceased) for seven years, he left no children.

Bill’s passions were his military service and his fierce independence. After two years of college, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, and served six years, predominantly serving in Korea. Upon his return, he once spent four years in the desert, “living off the fat of the land.”  

He remained independent his entire life, and was singing, “I Want to be an Airborne Ranger” during his final days.

Final Military Honors services will be conducted at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, at 9:15 a.m. The Patriot Guard will be in attendance.