William Arnold Browning

William Arnold Browning, 82, of El Dorado Springs, passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2019, at St. Lukes Hospital in Kansas City.

He was born in Norborne, MO, on Oct. 27, 1936, to Roy and Marjory (Jackson) Browning. He was one of nine siblings and grew up in Norborne.

After graduating from high school in 1954, Bill joined the Air Force where he distinguished himself as a pilot and leader. He graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1962. This was a source of pride for him and his family.

While serving his country, Bill was stationed in various locations around the world, flying critical missions and later, VIP’s. He was a highly decorated officer, awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with one oak leaf cluster in 1968. Bill retired in 1979 with the rank of Lt. Col. and settled in El Dorado Springs.

In 1981 Bill met and later married Linda (Wright) Wynes. He showed Linda the world through their many travels and she will be forever grateful. Bill was a wonderful grandpa and stepfather, always ready to laugh, listen and guide.

Bill was his family’s historian. He kept up with everyone and was especially a hit with children. He had many nieces and nephews who all have stories about Uncle Bill.

He never knew a stranger and enjoyed talking with people. Bill had a great sense of humor and a high moral code. He will be missed and remembered with great pride and affection.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and seven siblings.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Linda Sue Browning; step daughters, Debbra Peres and Sharri Hacker (Doug); granddaughters, Melinda Young (Tyler) and Jessica Tucker (Josh); five great-grandchildren; brother, John Browning (Karen) of Los Angeles, CA; many nieces and nephews; and great nieces and nephews.

Services were held Monday, March 25, in the US Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO, with Chaplain Holly Jones officiating. Music was “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace.” Casketbearers were members of the US Air Force Honor Guard. Interment was in the US Air Force Academy Cemetery, Colorado Springs.

Arrangements were by Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs, where visitation was held Thursday, March 21. www.sheldonfh.com.