In Loving Memory 

William Lee Colson, lovingly known as Bill, passed away on April 28, 2026, at the age of 82.

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Early Life and Military Service 

Bill was born on September 24, 1943, to Woodrow Daniel Colson and Dorothy Pearl Whitehead. He attended Black Middle School and Reagan High School before earning his GED. At the age of 17, Bill left home to join the United States Coast Guard in 1960, serving his country during the Vietnam War era. He served on the International Ice Patrol and proudly attained the rank of Radioman 2nd Class before being honorably discharged in September 1966. While stationed in New York in 1964, Bill met the love of his life, Mary Catherine “Micky” Smith—an encounter that would change his life forever.

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Marriage and Family 

Bill and Micky were married on October 24, 1964, beginning a loving partnership that would span decades. Shortly after their marriage, they moved to Texas and started their life together in Houston before settling in San Antonio in 1965.

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Professional Life 

Bill dedicated much of his professional life to Prudential Insurance, where he worked for approximately 30 years. Starting in sales, he distinguished himself as a top insurance agent, earning several awards for his exceptional service and dedication to clients. His talent and work ethic led him to advance into management, where he continued to excel and make a lasting impact on the organization. During his time at Prudential, Bill created cherished family memories by taking his wife and children on cross-country trips to yearly insurance conferences in Colorado and California. These journeys combined his professional achievements with quality family time, turning business travel into adventures that his family would treasure forever. In addition to his insurance career, he also worked for DNA Reference Laboratory. He concluded his working years at The Scooter Store in New Braunfels before retiring.

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Faith and Community

A man of deep faith and community involvement, Bill was an active member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. He served faithfully in the Knights of Columbus and shared his love of music as a member of the church choir. Later in life, Bill discovered a passion for community theatre. He became involved in numerous productions at The Stage Theater in Bulverde, where he formed many lasting friendships and brought joy to audiences through his performances.

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Personality and Passions 

Bill had a zest for life that touched everyone around him. Music was woven into the fabric of his daily life—he was always singing and whistling, filling every room with melody and joy. His love of cooking was legendary, whether he was preparing meals in the kitchen or manning the grill outdoors, creating delicious food that brought family and friends together. An avid outdoorsman, Bill enjoyed camping adventures with the Hash House Harriers, where he formed lasting friendships and shared countless memorable experiences. His warmth, humor, and generous spirit made him a beloved presence in every community he touched.

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Legacy 

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Catherine “Micky” Colson, who passed away on May 31, 2025, just eleven months before him. He is survived by his children, Kathleen “Kat” Colson and Thomas Colson; and his three grandchildren, Cameron Blouse, Reece Colson, and Hayden Colson. Bill will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, his faith, and his warm sense of humor. His life touched many, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

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A service with military honors will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 2:45 PM.