Bill Hartley

William John Hartley passed away Saturday, July 3 at the age of 90 years. Raised in New York City, “Bill” spent his childhood and teen years surrounded by his parents and relatives, who were on Broadway and in Ziegfeld Follies. From this, he learned the art of acting and became a consummate entertainer, spending four years in the Airforce bringing laughter to the troops during the Korean War. He married Katherine Annette (Jeanette) McDonald from Shreveport, Louisiana and together they raised five children, mostly in the same home on Vine Street for over 55 years.

An active member in the Actors Guild, Bill performed in Lake Charles Little Theater, starring in On the Waterfront and in several other productions. He loved to sing with a rich alto/tenor voice and often brought music, laughter, and amusement into the home. Always energetic and outgoing, Bill played soccer during his adult years as well as golf with his sons.  As father and provider, he worked tirelessly for 42 years and retired from Cities Service Refinery at the age of 71. During his childhood and youth, his religious practice was Catholicism, but he spent the later part of his life attending New Destiny Assembly of God with Jeanette—his wife of nearly 67 years. Bill will be remembered as a true American Patriot, a Veteran, and a devoted husband and father. He is preceded in death by Jeanette and is survived by his five children, eighteen grandchildren, and eighteen great-grandchildren.

At 1 pm on Thursday, July 8, 2021, Pastor James Kressman will oversee the service at Johnson and Robison Funeral Home in Sulphur, LA.  Prior to the service, the visitation will be held in the funeral home from 11am – 1pm.