William J Southerland

William J. Southerland, age 84, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2009 at RTA Hospice & Palliative Care Center in Payson, AZ. He was born on March 12, 1924 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Ben & Clara Southerland. Mr. Southerland graduated from Holbrook High School and served his country during World War II in the Air Force. After returning from the war he worked the majority of his career for the U.S. Postal Service. He was also a longtime member of the Holbrook Fire Department. William and his family spent many summer vacations at Kino Bay, Mexico, as well as an extensive trip to the Baja Peninsula and Alaska. After his retirement he and his wife Verniece moved to Tonto Basin where he enjoyed the peace and tranquility of rural life. He enjoyed feeding and watching the wildlife and riding his ATV on the many trails in the area. Mr. Southerland is survived by his daughter Deniece Stephens; son-in-law, Richard Stephens and one granddaughter, Melanie Stephens. He was preceded in death by his wife, Verniece; son William J. "Billy" Southerland and his mother, Clara Southerland. Private Graveside Services will be held.