Bill Lillard dies at 91

The Santa Barbara News-Press June 23, 2009

Former professional baseball player William "Bill" Beverly Lillard passed away at Mission View Health Center in San Luis Obispo on June 9th after a short period of physical decline.

Bill was born January 10th, 1918 in a two story home on the Pinkham Ranch where his father was ranch Forman. He attended local Goleta & Santa Barbara schools, graduating from Santa Barbara High School in 1936.

He played shortstop during his baseball career of nine years, two of which were in the majors with the Philadelphia Athletics. In his off season time in 1939 he married his high school sweetheart, Sarah Marie Wright. They have enjoyed a wonderful 69 years of marriage. After he retired from baseball, Bill worked 32 years for the postal service. He was also an active member of the First Baptist Church. He also had the honor to be inducted into the Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table "Hall of Fame" in 1973.

Survivors include: wife, Sally Lillard of San Luis Obispo; daughters, Bonnie Rypma of Liberal, Ks and Sue Morwood of Arroyo Grande; grandchildren, Melissa Woodie of Hamilton, Ks, Michelle Rypma of Wichita, Ks, Logan Morwood of Santa Clara and Kelly Morwood of Stamford, Ct; and great-grandchildren Seth, Caroline, Marshall and Emma Woodie.

Bill's memorial service will be held 2pm this Sunday at the First Baptist Church on 949 Veronica Springs Road with Rev. Hans Kistner officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill Lillard's Memory to: Hospice Partners of the Central Coast, 277 South Street, Suite R, San Luis Obispo, Ca. 93401.