William "Bill" Earl Finch, Jr.
1926 or 1927 – 2024
William "Bill" Finch, age 97, passed away peacefully on September 17th, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love.
Born in FT. Smith Arkansas on October 18 th , 1926, or 27, the actual year is still a source of speculation, to Willie Finch and Hazel (Williams) Finch. Bill lived a long, fulfilling life defined by his commitment to his country, family, and work.
Bill proudly lied about his age to enlist and serve in the U.S. Navy during World War II. His courage and dedication to duty left an indelible mark on those he served with. After the war, he pursued a degree in engineering, at the University of Houston where his intelligence and hard work resulted in a successful 30-year career with the Moretrench Corporation.
On June 21 st, 1947, Bill married Velma Lee (Vaughn) Finch, and together they raised three children: Johnny Lee, Patricia "Patsy", and Merri Lynn. Bill cherished his family, always providing a strong foundation of love and support.
After Velma Lee's passing, Bill married Annilee (Hughes) Finch on May 22nd, 1993. Through this union, he gained a daughter, Heather Zinn.
Bill was an avid golfer and bowler and was well known for his competitiveness. As a young man, he also spent time as a stock car driver. This experience carried over into his general love of driving. He passed this trait and his lead foot onto his children and grandchildren.
Bill remained an active member of "The Fools" Kickingbird Seniors, the Senior League of Boulevard Lanes, and NuVoice Club up until his passing.
Bill was a friend to many and never met a stranger. He loved to meet and talk to new people. He was most proud of his family, whom he loved to show off to anyone who would listen. If you were fortunate enough to receive one of his hugs you either came away with a back adjustment or a dislocated rib.
Bill had a lifelong love of the Lord. He was a participating church member from early childhood and was baptized as a teen. For the last ten years he has been a member of Community Church of Guthrie where he served until his health no longer allowed him to do so.
He was preceded in death by his parents: William Finch, and Hazel Williams Finch Bearden. Siblings: Alice Panunzio and Louis Bearden. Wife: Velma Lee Finch. Sons in Law: John Morris and J.L. Logue.
Bill is survived by his wife, Annilee Finch, Brothers: Bobby Finch and Tony Panunzio. Son, Johnny and Sandra Finch, Daughters: Patricia and David Perez, Merri Lynn Logue and Heather and Raymond Zinn. Grandchildren: William Compton and wife Amber, Briana Finch Box, Alan Finch and wife Michelle, Dawn Renae Jarnagin, Laura Drewelow and husband, Nathan, Andrew Zinn and wife Marie, Patrick Zinn and wife McKenna Joseph Zinn and wife Arlington, Annalyn Zinn. 10 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.
His family will forever cherish the memories they shared with him, and his spirit will live on through them.
Bill's kindness, strength, and unwavering commitment to those he loved will never be forgotten. He will be missed dearly by all who had the privilege to know him.
Visitation will be held from 3-6 p.m., Sunday, September 22, 2024 at Matthews Funeral Home with family present to greet friends.
Services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Monday, September 23, 2024 at Community Church in Guthrie, OK with interment to follow at Gracelawn Cemetery Edmond, OK.
For friends and family that are unable to attend with us in person you will be able to view a live stream on the service by clicking HERE .
In Lieu of flowers please donate to any of the following: St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, Online Donations – St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org) or Shriners Hospital for Children, Donate to Shriners Hospitals for Children® (lovetotherescue.org) .