William (Butch) Harrison Halpayne

Butch was born on August 22, 1948 to G.W. and Erma Halpayne in Little, Rock Arkansas.  He spent most of his childhood years in Benton, Arkansas but at 17 years of age he, his younger brother Mike, and his mother moved to Hodges, Texas.  Butch attended Hawley High School as a senior and was a member of the track team.  He qualified for and ran in the State Track Meet his senior year.  After he graduated from high school, Butch was drafted and served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.  He worked as an Army Medic at the base hospital in Vicenza, Italy until he was honorably discharged from the Army.

Upon returning to the States, he began his 40+ years working in the oil and gas industry.  Butch met the love of his life, Carla Johnson in 1971.  They were married on August 7, 1971 at Shelton Avenue Baptist Church in Breckenridge, Texas and were long-time residents of Abilene.  Butch and Carla were blessed with two children, Chris Halpayne and Ginger Halpayne Bennight.  Butch was a devoted father and loved his family very much.  He loved to laugh and loved making others laugh.  No matter the circumstance, Butch could always bring joy and happiness to those around him.

Butch was well respected in the oil and gas industry in west Texas.  Petroleum Engineers often sought his advice regarding oil production.  Many oil lease owners requested Butch by name when they were in need of drilling or production services.  He retired in 2011 and enjoyed spending time with family especially his grandchildren.

Butch loved God and received Christ as Savior and Lord as a teenager.  He was not ashamed of his faith and witnessed to the lost when the opportunity presented itself.  He was also a very charitable man.  He was constantly loaning money or giving money to those in need.  Butch found joy in helping others.

Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Carla, their children Chris and his wife Sara, G inger and her husband Larry, and five grandchildren Cody, Randy, Cort, Ziva, and Daxx; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.