John William "Bill" Hess

John William “Bill” Hess, 94, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on July 11, 2026, just two days after celebrating his 94th birthday.

Bill was born on July 9, 1932, in Balmorhea, Texas, near Pecos. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, demonstrating the same quiet courage and commitment that would characterize the rest of his life.

In 1955, Bill married the love of his life, Martha Dorvalene “Dorvie” Duree. Together they built a beautiful life and shared 57 wonderful years of marriage. They were blessed with two children, Sharon and Forrest, and later opened their hearts through adoption to welcome their third child, Rich. Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy was his family.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorvie, and by his brothers, Mickey Hess and Bob Hess. He is survived by his children, Sharon and Rich and his wife Stefani; his grandchildren, Jason Breslich, Bryson Hess and wife Jenni, and Sutton Hess and wife Tallie; his great-granddaughter, Briar Hess; his sister, Carol; and his brothers, Chris Hess and Roger Hess.

Bill spent many years serving his community as a trusted insurance agent. He never met a stranger and was known for his warm smile, genuine interest in others, and generous spirit. Humble and unassuming, he lived a life that reflected his deep Christian faith more through his actions than his words.

His church family, Waterloo Church of the Nazarene, was an important part of his life. He faithfully attended worship, loved singing in church, participated in Sunday School and men’s Bible study, and found great joy in encouraging others in their walk with Christ. Above all, Bill loved sharing the hope he had found in Jesus Christ. As a lifelong Gideon, he faithfully distributed thousands of Bibles throughout his lifetime, believing God’s Word had the power to change lives. Through this ministry and his personal witness, he touched the hearts of countless people.

Bill treasured time with his extended family. Gatherings with his four brothers and sister were filled with laughter, stories, and cherished traditions. Fall Saturdays revolved around Oklahoma Sooners football, while summer evenings often included cheering on his beloved New York Yankees. Family gatherings were never complete without spirited games of horseshoes and dominoes. He also loved traveling, camping, and creating memories with those he loved. Bill rarely missed his son's football or baseball games, loved attending his grandsons' baseball tournaments, and weekend getaways with his daughter, Sharon and grandson, Jason.

Those who knew Bill will remember a man of unwavering faith, gentle character, and steadfast love. He was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren, grateful for every blessing God had given him, and quick to celebrate the accomplishments of those around him. His life was a testimony to kindness, humility, service, generosity, and faithfulness. 2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race"

Although his family mourns his passing, they rejoice in the assurance that Bill’s faith has become sight. His greatest desire was that others would come to know Jesus Christ, and his legacy will continue through the lives he influenced, the family he loved, and the faith he so faithfully lived. We can only imagine the joy of hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Public visitation will be held on Thursday, July 18, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Matthews Funeral Home in Edmond, OK.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Friday, July 17th, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Waterloo Church-The Nazarene, 457 W Waterloo Rd, Edmond, OK 73025.

Graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, July 17th, 2026, beginning at 12:00 p.m. at Spring Creek Cemetery, 14300 N County Line Rd, Oklahoma City, OK 73142.