Bill Gene Read

Paradise ~ Billie Gene Read, 96, went peacefully to be with our Lord on Saturday, October 10, 2026, in Paradise while surrounded by family.

Funeral Service is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at First Baptist Church Cottondale in Cottondale. Visitation is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.

Billie was born on September 20, 1930, to John Read and Irene Pike in Draco, Texas. He was united in marriage to Bobbie J. Martin on May 9, in 1953.

Billie proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a Staff Sergeant with the 3700th Air Police Squadron at Lackland Air Force Base from June 4, 1948, through June 3, 1954. He also served with the 440th Signal Battalion in Japan beginning October 14, 1948, and later with the 421st Air Police Squadron in Tokyo, Japan, as military police. During Billie’s military service, he received several honors, including the Korean Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, and National Defense Medal. Following his military service, Billie built a career at General Dynamics, where he contributed to the production of the F-16’s, an aircraft that became an important part of American aviation history. His years of service to his country and his work in the aerospace industry reflected a life of dedication and commitment. Billie was a member of Bridgeport Masonic Lodge No. 587 and Cottondale Baptist Church. These affiliations were an important part of his life and his connection to his community. Billie was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Bobbie J; daughter Debora; granddaughter Toni; great-granddaughter KD; and 9 brothers and sisters.

Those left behind to cherish his memory are his sons, Bud Read and his wife Sheila of Paradise, Barry Read of Dallas; his grandchildren, Eric Harris of Paradise, Russell Read and his wife Jennifer of Whiskey Flats, Trisha Thompson and husband Chad of Paradise; 9 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; his sister, Patsy McClure; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

The family welcomes donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in lieu of flowers.

Hawkins Funeral Home Bridgeport

940-683-2211

www.hawkinsfuneralhome.com