Billy Knowlton

Billy Glen Knowlton, 76, of West Columbia passed from this life at his home on Dec. 3, 2015 with his children by his side.
Left to cherish his memory are his children, Jeff Knowlton and wife, Heather, of McKinney and Leslie Knowlton and Paul Campbell of Houston; brothers, James Knowlton and wife, Mary, of Suffolk, VA; Ron Knowlton and wife, Carolyn, of Ethel, AR; mother of Jeff and Leslie, Ann Puleo and husband, Dave, of Houston; and granddaughter, Sarah Knowlton of McKinney. He is preceded in death by his parents Jacob "Jake" and Frankie Knowlton; brothers, Charles Kenneth and Bob Knowlton; and sister, Donna Morgan.
Following graduation from St. Charles High School in St. Charles, AR, in 1957, Billy entered the United States Air Force. His stations included San Antonio, TX, Cheyenne, WY; RAF Upper Heyford, Oxfordshire and RAF West Drayton, Hillingdon in England as part of the 3918th Air Base Squadron, Combat Support Group. He was recognized as the Outstanding Airmen of the Year for the squadron in 1960 for his duty, performance, courtesy, and conduct. He was honorably discharged as SSgt in 1962.
Billy made his career "in the rice business". He enjoyed working for Riceland Foods in Stuttgart, AR; American Rice, Inc. in Houston; Farmers Grain Terminal in Greenville, MS; and Affiliated Rice Milling in Alvin. He developed many lifelong friendships with people across the industry.
The family wishes to thank his dear friends who provided encouragement and support over the years. You know who you are, and we are forever grateful. We would also like to thank Helping Hands & Hearts Hospice, Julianna Burr and the caregivers from Home Instead Senior Care, and the ICU nurses at UTMB Angleton-Danbury Medical Center for their wonderful care of our father.
A celebration in honor of his life will be held 2:00pm on Sunday, December 13, 2015 at Columbia Lakes Country Club in West Columbia with Dr. Mike Deaton officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice in memory of Billy.

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