News Summary
The community of Mansfield, Louisiana, said farewell to veteran and craftsman William Henry McPhearson at the age of 91. His contributions to family, community, and service were celebrated during his final farewell. A former Navy sailor, he was deeply involved in local industries and dedicated to helping others. He leaves behind a loving family and a lasting legacy of craftsmanship and community service.
Mansfield, Louisiana – A Community Mourns the Loss of a Beloved Veteran and Craftsman
On September 25, 2024, the small town of Mansfield, Louisiana, said goodbye to one of its treasured residents, William Henry McPhearson, who passed away peacefully at the age of 91. He had been residing at the Mansfield Nursing Center, surrounded by friends and family during his final days. Born on November 6, 1932, in Natchitoches Parish, near Marthaville, William was the oldest of four boys raised in the McPhearson family.
A Life Well-Lived
William graduated from Marthaville High School in 1951 and soon served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He was proud to serve aboard the USS Coral Sea CVA43 as a Class A Metalsmith. After his military duty, William dove headfirst into the workforce, initially operating tractors in the wheat fields of the Midwest and assisting his father as a Welder’s Helper on pipelines. His journey took him back home to Louisiana, where he became entrenched in the local oilfields of Sabine and DeSoto Parishes.
Building a Legacy of Love
In a beautiful chapter of his life, William married Mary Evon “Yvonne” Jacobs, with whom he celebrated an astounding 66 years of marriage. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Ricky and Donna, creating a tight-knit family that grew to include numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The Craftsman’s Touch
William’s work history is as varied as it is impressive. He spent 19 years employed at Nabors Trailers in Mansfield and even operated his own grocery store in Pelican for a few years. Alongside his brothers, he started a logging business and a sawmill, diving into projects that showcased his incredible skills in woodwork, metalwork, and dirt work. His keen hands and creative mind earned him the reputation of being a true craftsman.
After a fulfilling stint in the logging business, he worked for Nordrill as a Rig Welder on offshore drilling rigs for five years, but he found the most joy in his role as a Herdsman for the San Patricio Cattle Company right in Pelican. There, he thrived in the outdoors, tending to cattle and sharing the experience with those he cherished.
A Commitment to Community
William was not only dedicated to his family and profession but also to his community. He volunteered as a firefighter for many years with the DeSoto Fire District 8, always ready to lend a helping hand when needed. His knack for repairing equipment for loggers and farmers from his home shop became a go-to resource for those in need. In addition, he took great pride in teaching young men to weld, passing on his knowledge while cultivating skills that would serve them well in their own lives.
A Passion for Animals
Outside of work, William had a soft spot for dogs. He enjoyed training various breeds, including Blue Ticks, Beagles, and Rat Terriers, and often shared his love for these animals with family and friends. His involvement in Wallace Baptist Church was another significant part of his life, where he formed lasting friendships and embraced his faith.
William reunites with his parents, R.C. and Iris McPhearson, as well as brothers and sister-in-law who have passed before him. However, he leaves behind an enduring legacy among his wife Yvonne, children Ricky and Donna, and countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry forward his spirit.
Final Farewell
A visitation to honor William is scheduled for September 29, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Mansfield. Family, friends, and members of the community are invited to pay their respects. The funeral service will take place on September 30, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Wallace Baptist Church in Pelican, officiated by Bro. Jeff Jinks, with interment to follow at Pelican Cemetery. Pallbearers will include his grandsons and a great-grandson, reflecting his cherished family ties.
As Mansfield comes together to remember this remarkable man, community members extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Mansfield Nursing Center for the exceptional care and compassion shown during his final days.
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Additional Resources
- Rose-Neath Funeral Home
- Shreveport Times: Panda Express Opens New Location
- KTAL News: New Manufacturing Facility in Mansfield
- KTBS: Man Drowns in Pond
- Wikipedia: Mansfield, Louisiana
