William Arthur Masterson, age 69, of Guthrie, Texas; May 10, 1947- September 27, 2016. Life happens along that dash, between those dates. William Masterson, known as “Bill”, was a man who was loved by many and truly loved life. This was evident by his infectious smile, silly jokes and boisterous laughter.

Bill grew up in Guthrie, Texas, on the JY Ranch. He graduated from Texas Tech University in 1969 with a BS in Animal Science; he continued to support the university long after his graduation, serving as a beef coach, board member of the Range and Wildlife Management division and scholarship donor for the Red Raider Club. Bill served as president of the American Shorthorn Association, secretary of the Masterson Management Corporation, and the board of directors for the National Cattlemen’s Association, Brazos River Authority, King County Tax Appraisal District, First National Bank of Paducah, and the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. He also received his Texas State Honorary FFA degree in addition to breeding and showing many outstanding cutting horses.

He lived most of his life on the JY Ranch with his horses, cattle, welsh corgi dogs and family. He loved to hunt, fish and play golf. His nine grandchildren called him “Papaw” and he spoiled them with his favorite things: donuts, Blue Bell ice cream, birthday parties, jolly ranchers and Jujy fruits. Bill lived out his love of God best by his stewardship of land and his love for people. He rarely met a stranger and was a great friend to many, who will no doubt miss receiving his telephone calls.

Bill left this earth surrounded by his four loving children; Scotta Knight and husband Tadd, Robert Masterson and wife Wendy, Lisa Russell, and Laurie Bryson and husband Caleb; grandchildren, Kristen and Cameron Knight, Hadley Ray, Mattie Masterson, Alex Masterson, Sidney and Ben Russell, and Grace and Evie Bryson and many close friends he considered family. We will all get through the loss of this larger than life man by the words he told us often, “One Day at a Time”.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests memorials to theBill Masterson Educational Scholarship Fund at Western Bank, 5701 82nd Street, Lubbock, Texas 79424, or call 806.798.9700.