Billy Junior Chance

West Point, 1955

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Jack Campbell, USMA '55 on September 27, 2008:

Memorial services were held to celebrate the life of Billy Chance on September 20, 2008 in the Mount Hope United Methodist Church, Mount Hope, Kansas. That date was also his 75th birthday. The small town church was filled to capacity with Billy's family and many friends. Joan, her two sons and one daughter along with their families sat in the front row on the left side of the aisle. The front row on the right side was reserved for Billy's West Point friends and their wives. Fred and Dorothy Bliss, Jack Campbell, and Dan Dienst represented the Class of '55. Pete (x55) and Mary Vann were there to represent his West Point company-mates and team-mates. A detail from Fort Riley was on hand to play taps and ceremoniously fold the United States flag that they then presented to Joan in honor of Billy's service to his country. The church service was a very up-beat celebration of Billy's life and included some of the families favorite hymns and readings. Pastor Donna Wise, a personal friend, told many amusing stories about Billy, his career, and his interaction with the church. The service was indeed a celebration. Following the service, a reception was held in the Church activity room along with a wonderful spread of home made food and desserts. Family and friends gathered to mingle and tell many more tales of Billy Junior Chance. One of the many things Billy did for his home town was to found the Mount Hope Volunteer Ambulance Service. For those that so desire, memorial gifts in Billy's name can be sent to the Mount Hope Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 424, Mount Hope, Kansas 67108.

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