William Henry Haggard, Jr

William Henry Haggard, Jr. (Billy) of Buckeye, Arizona passed away, surrounded by family, on Friday, November 10, 2017. He was 85 years old. He was known affectionately by his family as “Billy Boy.”   Billy was born in Hunting Park, California on October 11, 1932. His parents are William Henry Haggard, Sr. and Elva Elizabeth Haggard. He has two siblings; a sister, Patsy Jonovich (Ivan), and a brother, Johnny Haggard (Debbie). Billy and his parents moved from California to various Arizona towns; Safford, Eden, and Laveen, where his siblings were born.   Billy married his sweetheart, Mary Joan Burr, in 1952. They made their home in Laveen then eventually moved to Buckeye, where they raised their family. They were blessed with four children; son Dale (Cynthia), daughter Debbie Hardesty (David), daughter Donna Bybee (Bob), and son Danny.   Billy served nearly 13 years as bishop of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Buckeye. He was also a local business owner involved in land, cattle, and cotton.   “Billy Boy” will always be remembered by his family, holding a Coca-Cola in his hand while playing Canasta and other games with his kids and grandkids. He always wore a cowboy hat and boots. He was an expert team roper and roped in many rodeos. He loved old western movies.   Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Beth; his sister, Patsy; His wife, Joan; his son, Dale; and his granddaughter, Michelle Hardesty. He is survived by his children; Debbie, Donna, and Danny; his brother, Johnny; 12 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. His kind heart will be missed.   Billy’s celebration of life will be held on Friday, November 17, 2017 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1002 E Eason Ave, Buckeye, Arizona 85326. The viewing will be at 10:00am with the services following at 11am. Billy will be laid to rest at the Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery.