Billy J. Bohannan

WASHINGTON, Iowa — Billy Joe "Billy" Bohannan, 95, of Washington, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the United Presbyterian Home.

Bill was born on Dec. 23, 1930, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Calvin and Hazel Ann (Faubus) Bohannan.

He graduated from Harrison High School in Arkansas and attended the University of Arkansas. Bill left college to serve in the United States Navy from 1951 to 1955. After his honorable service, he returned to the University of Arkansas, graduating with a degree in electrical engineering. On his graduation day from the U of A, Bill married the love of his life, Ollie Ann Chambers on June 1, 1957.

Following his time in the service, Bill lived in Texas from 1957 to 1961, but called Arkansas home for most of his life. Bill worked as an electrical engineer at Convair, later called General Dynamics. While there, he worked on the B-58 Hustler Super Sonic Bomber. He later worked for Norge refrigerator and air conditioning company. During this time, he received a U.S. Patent for an electronic device that would automatically control the temperature and speed of devices such as window unit air conditioners. Bill lastly worked for Reynolds Metals Company in Hot Springs, retiring in 1994.

In October 2019, Bill and Ollie Ann moved to Iowa, to be closer to family.

Bill was a member of Hot Springs Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon. He was also a member of the Gideons.

In his earlier days, Bill was an Eagle Scout. He enjoyed watching the Razorbacks, woodworking, genealogy and was an avid reader. His favorite activity was spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Ollie Ann Bohannan of Washington, Iowa; son, Mike (Lisa) Bohannan of Washington, Iowa; daughter, Sarah (Neil) O'Brien of Parkville, Missouri; granddaughter, Emily Bohannan (Jacob Moriarty-Stone) of Henderson, Nevada; granddaughter, Molly (Jake) Hicks of Washington, Iowa; great-granddaughters, Lilli and Madi Hicks of Washington, Iowa; and sister, Mary (Charles) Dawson of Shreveport, Louisiana; along with several nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bob Bohannan; and his sister, Pat Bohannan.

A private family graveside service will be held on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the Elm Grove Cemetery with Chaplain Andrew Zuehlke officiating. A general memorial has been established.

The Jones & Eden Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent for Bill's family athttp://www.jonesfh.com.

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