William "Bill" Lee Hughes III

In Loving Memory of Bill

William Lee Hughes III, affectionately known as Bill, was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and coach whose life was defined by his love for family, his passion for sports, and the lasting impact he made on the lives of others.

Born on May 30, 1956, in Austin, Texas, Bill was the son of Bill Jr. and Barbara. He attended the University of Texas at Arlington, beginning a lifelong journey in education and athletics that would touch countless students, athletes, colleagues, and families throughout his career.

Bill dedicated more than 40 years to coaching football and soccer, earning numerous awards and honors along the way. Throughout his career, he served in numerous schools and communities, including Mineral Wells, Mount Vernon, Mansfield, Irving Nimitz, Kennedale, Maypearl, Ennis, and Burleson Centennial. His commitment to education and athletics extended far beyond the playing field. For Bill, coaching was about more than wins and losses; it was about teaching life lessons, building character, encouraging perseverance, and helping young people become the best versions of themselves. The influence he had on his athletes and the memories he created with his colleagues will continue to live on for years to come.

Above all his accomplishments, Bill treasured his family. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Beth, and was a proud father to Travis (Sarah), Reid (Cat), and Patrick (Gillian). His greatest joy was being Audi to his five grandchildren: Grayson (13), Mack (11), Everett (6), Brooks (4), and Molly (6mo). He loved spending time with his grandchildren and took immense pride in watching them grow. The memories made with his family were among his most cherished, and his love for them was at the center of his life.

When Bill wasn't coaching or spending time with family, he enjoyed playing golf, listening to Texas country music, and smoking briskets. He appreciated the simple pleasures of life, especially those that brought people together. Whether on the golf course, around the barbecue, or surrounded by his family, Bill knew how to make the most of a good day and create memories worth holding on to.

Bill leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond the awards he earned or the teams he coached. He will be remembered for his dedication, his love of sports, his commitment to young people, and, most importantly, his devotion to his family. The lessons he taught, the lives he influenced, and the love he shared will remain a lasting part of those fortunate enough to have known him.

Though he will be deeply missed, Bill's legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, former athletes, colleagues, and the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable career.

A visitation honoring Bill's life will be held on October 17 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Wade Funeral Home in Arlington, TX.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Arlington Humane Society or the Texas High School Coaches Association Benevolence Fund.

Bill will forever be remembered as a coach, a mentor, a husband, a father, and a grandfather whose greatest victories were the relationships he built and the lives he touched.