Obituary for William "Bill" Oliver Lacer Jr.
January 16, 1950 – August 4, 2025

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of William "Bill" Oliver Lacer Jr., who departed this world on August 4, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas. He was 75 years old. A man of unwavering strength, quiet wisdom, and boundless love for his family, Bill leaves behind a legacy of honor, humility, and purpose.

Born on January 16, 1950, in the sun-drenched city of Miami, Florida, Bill was the beloved son of the late Marion and William Lacer. From an early age, it was clear that Bill possessed a rare inner strength and a fierce devotion to the people and principles he held dear. These qualities would shape his life's journey, guiding him through service, sacrifice, and serenity.

Bill answered the call of duty with courage and conviction, serving his country in the United States Air Force. He completed two tours in Vietnam, earning the Silver Star, one of the nation's highest military honors—presented to him personally by the President of the United States. He never sought recognition for his service, wearing his valor with humility, as was his way. His time in the military forged in him a steadfast resilience and a quiet dignity that he carried throughout his life.

Following his military service, Bill's physical strength was matched only by his mental fortitude. He became a record-holding powerlifter in the state of Arkansas, a feat he rarely mentioned but which speaks volumes about his determination and work ethic. He believed in pushing limits—his own and others'—but always with quiet encouragement rather than boast.

Yet it was the gentle rhythm of nature that truly spoke to Bill's soul. A lifelong bass fisherman, Bill found his peace on the water. He not only loved to fish—he lived to fish. To those who knew him best, the lake was his sanctuary, his chapel. He participated in countless fishing competitions, often returning with trophies, always returning with stories and that familiar contented smile. If there was a day without fishing, it was a day spent planning for the next.

Bill also found joy in the soil of his garden, the treasures of a small-town thrift store, and the smoke curling from his backyard BBQ. Known far and wide for his legendary ribs, his family would often joke that you could smell "Bill's BBQ Sundays" from three blocks away. Friends and neighbors would gather, drawn in by the scent, but staying for the warmth of his company—even if he spoke just a few words.

Because that was Bill: a man of few words, but when he spoke, hearts listened. His voice was quiet, his presence steady, and his counsel deep. He was a man rooted in unshakeable Christian faith, guided not by show, but by service. He lived his beliefs—loving his family, working with integrity, and helping others with quiet grace. A true man of God, Bill led by example.

Bill's greatest pride was his family. As a husband, he was devoted, patient, and endlessly loving. His wife, Sandra, was the center of his world—a partner in every sense of the word. Together, they built a life rich with meaning, grounded in faith, laughter, and the simple joys of being together. As a father, Bill was a constant. He didn't need to say much to let his children know they were loved beyond measure. His guidance came through in a steady hand, a quiet presence at life's most important moments, and the unwavering sense of safety he provided. His children—Michelle, Sarah, Billy, and Jason—knew their father as their anchor, their hero, and their biggest champion. He was the kind of dad who showed up, stood strong, and gave all of himself without ever asking for anything in return.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra Lacer; his children, Michelle Keaton, Sarah Riordan, Billy Riordan, and Jason Porter; his grandchildren, Bryce and Olivia Keaton; and his siblings: Brian Lacer, Kathy Reid (and husband Dan), Barbara Tape (and husband Kurt), and John Lacer (and wife Nancy). He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Marilyn Parish (and husband Rudy - not just a brother-in-law, Bill's brother in the truest sense and best fishing partner, ever) and Kathy McLaughlin (and husband John), and his brother-in-law Richard McLary (and wife Ruth).

Though he has now cast his final line and walked into the arms of his Savior, Bill's spirit endures—in the stillness of a lake at sunrise, in the smoky sweetness of a backyard BBQ, in the calloused hands of those who labor with love, and in the quiet, enduring strength of a man who lived not for accolades, but for the simple, eternal joys of faith and family.

He has gone home now, to be reunited with his beloved parents, Marion and William, and to rest in the peace he so richly deserves. And while the world feels quieter without him, his love remains a steady current beneath the surface of our lives.

Rest easy, Bill. The waters are calm, and your journey is done.