William Leach

William (Bill) Leach, a cherished husband, father and friend, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, in Abilene, TX, at the age of 76 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 2:00 - 4:00 PM in the Elmwood Funeral Home Family Center, 5750 Hwy 277 South. Funeral services will be on Monday, August 25, 2025, 10:30 AM at the Abilene First Church of the Nazarene, located at 2849 Beltway South. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 PM sharp at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery, 7457 West Lake Rd.

Bill was born on January 13, 1949, in Oklahoma City, OK, to Edward and Joan Leach. As a military brat, he lived in several places across the United States and England before the family settled in Abilene, TX. After graduating from Cooper High School, Bill volunteered for service during the Vietnam War.

Bill served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Dubuque and The USS Princeton. During his service on the Princeton, the ship recovered the Apollo 10 return capsule. After his discharge, he studied architectural drafting at Texas State Technical Institute.

In 1973, Bill married his beloved wife, Loretta. Together they cared for their son, Aaron, whose medical needs required much of their time and resources. Bill devoted himself to providing for his family, building a long career with the Texas Department of Transportation. After 33 years in a variety of roles, he retired as District Lead Environmental Coordinator.

Bill deeply loved his church, where he devoted himself to multiple ministries and played a pivotal role in its operations and maintenance. His faith and commitment to serving God's kingdom remain central to his legacy. Beyond the church, Bill found joy in the great outdoors. He was an avid cyclist, he also served as an assistant scout leader and board chairman for Boy Scout Troop 235. His love of nature inspired him to become a certified Master Naturalist in 2015. In his later years, Bill pursued his dream of sailing, purchasing a boat and spending many happy hours on the water with the Abilene Sailing Association.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Michael Leach. He is survived by his devoted wife, Loretta; his son, Aaron Leach (wife Kelly); his granddaughter, Emma Leach; stepbrothers Pete Wells (wife Margaret) and Steve Wells (wife Betsy); stepsister Jolene Isaacs (husband Charles), along with numerous beloved nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

We celebrate the remarkable life of William Leach-a man who lived with kindness, laughter and a passion for service and adventure. He will be deeply missed but always remembered in the hearts of those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers the family would like donations to be made to First Church of Nazarene of Abilene building funds.