William “Bill” Dishman, 77, of Beaumont, died Sunday, July 3, 2011, at Summer Place Nursing and Rehabilitation.

A native and lifelong resident of Beaumont, Bill was born on August 5, 1933, to Stella Curtis Dishman and George A. Dishman, Sr. 

Bill was a retired rice farmer, Deacon to his church, Sunday school teacher and a lifelong advocate for education.  Throughout his life, Bill served on several local and national boards for the further development and enhancement of the rice farming industry.  He also served on the South Park and Beaumont School Boards for many years.

Survivors include his wife, Martha Jane Dishman of Beaumont; sons, Bill Dishman and his wife, Lisa of Beaumont, Bryan Dishman and his wife, Cici of Beaumont, and Blain Dishman and his wife, Jeannie of North Vidor; daughter, Kelly Heydman and her husband, Gunter of Fort Worth; brothers, George A. Dishman, Jr. and his wife, Judy and James C. Dishman and his wife, Ann both of Beaumont; ten grandchildren, Erin, Ford, Casey, Hillary, Garrett, Elyse, Gracelyn, Brandon, Blake, and Bryce; and great-grandchildren, Preston, Keaton and Stella.

His funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 6, 2011, at Amelia Baptist Church, 8055 Brighton, Beaumont with burial to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Beaumont, under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.  A gathering of his family and friends was held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 5, 2011, at Broussard’s.

The family wishes to thank Minnie, Adrianne, Bishad and Pat for the care and friendship they shared with Bill over the last year. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Amelia Baptist Church, 8055 Brighton, Beaumont, Texas 77707 or to Julie Rogers Gift of Life Program, PMB 46, 148 Dowlen Road, Beaumont, Texas 77707.