YOAKUM: , beloved son, brother, athlete, volunteer, and friend to all, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025, at the age of 42. Born on June 9, 1983, to William “Bill” Wimberly, Jr and Beverly Ann Wimberly, Billy was the fourth of five children and the heart of his close-knit family. He was cherished by his older sisters Tammy, Cindy and Susie and his younger brother Clayton.
Billy was born with Down Syndrome, but he never let that define or limit him. His life was marked by purpose, joy, and an unshakable love for people. He was a member of the graduating class of 2002 of Yoakum High School and a proud Special Olympics athlete, competing in basketball, Bocce ball, golf, bowling and track & field. He gave his all on the course, court and the track – just as he did in every area of his life.
Billy had a gift for music and movement. If you knew Billy, you know he loved to sing and loved even more to dance! His playlist always included country legends but most especially his all-time favorite, George Strait. He embraced the cowboy way of life – whether he was riding horses, strumming his guitar, or showing off his favorite boots or newest cowboy hat, Billy lived and breathed the country lifestyle, and it defined so much of who he was.
After high school, Billy worked and served alongside his dad, his hero and best friend helping with service calls for Wimberly Repair Service throughout Yoakum and the surrounding communities. Together, they were more than just fix-it men – they were neighbors who brought laughter and light into each home they entered.
Billy also had a deep love and sense of duty for his town. He proudly served on the Yoakum Volunteer Fire Department as an associate volunteer for nearly 20 years answering the call with dedication and pride. Whether in uniform or out, he never met a stranger. Billy, in all his unique and amazing ways, was embraced by each of you and we are so thankful for that love and support of him. Billy truly loved his community – and that love was returned to him a hundredfold.
He is survived by his mother, Beverly Ann Wimberly; his sisters Tammy Jaster (David), Cindy Herchek (Stoney), Susie Keim (Tim), and his brother Clayton Wimberly (Chelsea); nieces and nephews Darian Smith (Hunter), Justin Jaster (Paige), Colton Jaster, Trey Keim, Chandler Wimberly, Jace Wimberly, Macyn Wimberly, Maddox Wimberly, Sawyer Wimberly, Slayde Wimberly, Beckett Keim, Truitt Wimberly, Aubrey Wimberly and Charlotte Keim; great nephew and nieces Kree Smith and Scottie Mae Jaster; and countless extended family members, fellow firefighters and friends who were blessed by his presence.
He is preceded in death by his father, William “Bill” Wimberly, his paternal grandparents, Bud and Lottie Wimberly, and his maternal grandparents, Ervin and Louise Lorke.
Visitation 4 p.m., Monday, August 11, 2025, with Rosary Service at 6:30 p.m., at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home in Yoakum, Texas.
Funeral Mass to celebrate Billy’s life, 10 a.m., Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld officiating. Burial to follow at Pilot Grove Cemetery.
Pallbearers: Yoakum Volunteer Fire Department
Honorary Pallbearers: Brothers-in-Laws, David Jaster, Stoney Herchek and Tim Keim.
Donations may be made in Billy’s honor to the Yoakum Volunteer Fire Department, Pilot Grove Cemetery and St. Joseph Catholic Church.
A special thanks to Steven’s Nursing Home and Hospice of South Texas for their loving care and support during this difficult time.
Billy Wimberly lived a life full of heart, humor, and service. His spirit will live in every smile he brought to others, every song he sang, and every life he touched.
“Oh, the last goodbye’s the hardest one to say…this is where the cowboy rides away.”
– George Strait