Billy Owen Ladd

Billy Owen Ladd passed away April 19th, 2026 at the age of 87. Born January 25, 1939 at the home of his grandfather in White River Township, AR, Bill was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and great-grandfather.

An Army veteran during the Vietnam Era, he found his passion and lifelong love for communications working for General Telephone in 1958, eventually retiring from Alltel in 1990. As a hardworking man with an ever-present need to stay busy, he curated an impressive communications exhibit at the Dallas County Museum, and could often be found in front of the switchboard, big smile and booming laugh, showing kids and adults alike how to be an operator.

Most important to him was his 60 years of marriage to Charlene, lovingly nicknamed "Captain". He is preceded in death by his father Owen, mother Virginia "Chester," and three brothers: Ed, Julius, and Harry. He is survived by his wife Charlene, two daughters Christal Martindale (Kenny), Melody Little (David), four granddaughters Kaitlin Martindale, Alex Norris (Kyle), Kenli Carr (Logan), and Ashton Little, one great grandson Christopher Ladd Carr, and two beloved sisters Dale Matlock (Ronnie) and Linda Scanlan (Mike).

Although life will never be the same without him, he will be remembered in Big Smith overalls taking long walks through the garden, in the bald spot in the carpet of his home from 40 years of daily "noon hour" naps, in every moment of pride and success his tootie bugs experience, and the Santa suit that brought everyone so much joy. He was a man who loved well and was well loved.

A visitation will be held Thursday afternoon from 1PM until 2PM at the Benton Funeral Home Chapel in Fordyce. Memorial services will follow at 2PM at the chapel with Rev. Nathan Hubbard officiating. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net .