Billy Zacharias

William “Billy” Frederick Zacharias, a beloved educator, coach, farmer, and rancher, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, December 8, 2024, in McGregor, Texas, at the age of 83.

A celebration of his life will begin with a visitation at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at Zion Lutheran Church in McGregor, Texas, followed by funeral services at 2:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Miller. Interment will follow at McGregor Cemetery under the direction of Lake Shore Funeral Home.

Billy was born on February 11, 1941, in Waco, Texas, to Bill and Frieda (Wendt) Zacharias. He grew up in McGregor and graduated from McGregor High School in 1959. During his school years, Billy excelled in football, basketball, and track, demonstrating his passion for sports and leadership.

He continued his athletic and academic journey at Texas Lutheran College in Seguin, Texas, where he played football for four years, earning accolades as a standout fullback. After graduating in May 1963, Billy married the love of his life, Gloria Ann Wheat, on June 7, 1963, at Zion Lutheran Church in McGregor. Their 61 years of marriage were filled with love, dedication, and cherished memories.

Billy began his teaching career in the fall of 1963 at Giddings High School, where he taught math and coached football, basketball, and track. His time in Giddings left a lasting impression on his students and players, many of whom kept in touch and invited him to class reunions, the most recent of which he attended just weeks ago.

While teaching, Billy pursued further education, earning a Master’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Texas at Austin and Mid-Management and Superintendent Certifications from Baylor University in 1979 and 1980.

In 1974, Billy returned to McGregor as Principal of HG Isbill Intermediate School, a position he held until his retirement in 1995. He left an indelible mark on the lives of countless students and colleagues, maintaining his deep connection to sports as an avid supporter and “coach in the stands.”

Following his retirement, Billy returned to McGregor High School to teach Pre-Calculus and Calculus part-time, sharing his passion for higher-level mathematics and continuing to inspire young minds.

Billy’s life was enriched by the friendships he cultivated through domino games, hunting, and fishing. Above all, he treasured attending the sporting events of his children and grandchildren, ensuring he never missed a moment of their lives.

An active member of Zion Lutheran Church, Billy was a pillar of his community, known for his kind heart, dedication, and enduring friendships.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Frieda Zacharias. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Zacharias of McGregor; his children, Troy Zacharias with his wife, Cheri, Gary Zacharias with his wife, Missy, and Stacy Price with her husband, Kyle; eleven grandchildren, Kaley Gray and husband, Alasdair, Drew Zacharias and wife, Bree, Caitlin Zacharias, Madi Taylor and husband, Dean, Conner Zacharias and fiancé, Jessica, Mason Merritt, Alli Ainsworth, Cade Zacharias and wife, Bailey, Madi Ainsworth, Zach Ainsworth, and Bubba Zacharias; and two great-grandchildren, Maisie and Loxlie.

Pallbearers for the funeral will include Drew Zacharias, Conner Zacharias, Cade Zacharias, Zach Ainsworth, Bubba Zacharias, Dean Taylor, and Alasdair Gray.

Billy will be deeply missed by his extended family, friends, and the many lives he touched throughout his extraordinary life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Zion Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice in Billy’s honor.