Obituary of William Lee Colston

William L. Colston was born May 29, 1941, in Cartersville, Georgia and passed away peacefully at his home in Texas on July 8, 2023, due to a Myocardial Infarction.

William is preceded in death by his wife, Lydia; daughter, Molly (under 1 year); sons, Sampson, and Victor Woods; parents, Charles William, and Ella Frances; and brother, Elliott.

He is survived by six children; daughters, Ramona, and Ella Mae; sons, William L. Jr., Charles A., Donald, and Robert. He also leaves behind a brother, Norman Eugene (Gene); twelve grandchildren, as well as many cousins and friends.

He was a loving, compassionate, and supportive father allowing his children to grow to their potential. He was married for over fifty years living in both the United States and Philippines. He retired from active duty in the USAF and continued his reserve obligation for ten years. He served during the Vietnam War and Cold War Era under the strategic Air Command (SAC). He had duty assignments in Texas, Germany, Japan, Philippines, and several undisclosed locations.

As a Non-Commission Officer, he was an expert in his field. William received several decorations, medals, badges, citations, and campaign ribbons including the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon with four devices; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal with two devices; Air Force Outstanding Unit Award; Philippines Presidential Unit Award; Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Device; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal with five devices.

Veterans have done everything asked of them in their mission to serve our country and it is never too late to give them the recognition they deserve.

A Visitation will be held on Monday, July 24, 2023, at Martin Thompson & Son Funeral Home from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

A Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at the Dallas – Fort Worth National Cemetery at 10:00 a.m., where his wife will be interred with him.