William "Bill" Franklin Ping, 97, of Owensville, IN, passed away on September 6, 2025, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, IN. Born in Raleigh, IL on January 5, 1928, he was the son of Bernard W. Ping and Renda (Hall) Ping.

Mr. Ping received his early education at Murray School, a one-room schoolhouse, and Eldorado High School. Following his service as a quartermaster corporal at Fort Lee, Virginia during World War II, he earned a bachelor's degree from Oakland City University and a master's degree in sacred theology from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary (United Methodist) in Evanston, IL. Bill dedicated over sixty years to pastoral service in churches throughout Illinois and Indiana. He was an active member of several organizations including the Lyons Club, American Legion Post #51, and Masonic Lodge 979 in Decatur, IL, where he achieved the rank of master mason. In retirement, Mr. Ping remained engaged with Owensville United Methodist Church and participated in the Veterans of Gibson County Honor Guard. He valued fellowship with friends and retirees at local coffee shops and enjoyed fishing at Carl Barry Lake in Owensville. Bill married Mary Beth Barry in Owensville, IN, on August 10, 1950; she preceded him in death on January 8, 2009, after 58 years of marriage.

He was further preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Renda Ping; wife, Mary Beth Ping; son, Scott Ping; daughter, Bonita John; and siblings James, Fred, and Charles Ping.

Survivors include his children Barry (Lisa) Ping of Owensville, Beth (Joel) Spielman of Davis, IL, Susan Raney of Owensville, and Carla Braselton of Owensville; adopted daughter Maria Dumas of Haiti; brother Lyle Eugene Ping of Eldorado, IL; daughter-in-law Patty Wright of Owensville; son-in-law Kelly John of Gulf Shores, AL; 16 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Graveside services are scheduled for Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Owensville Cemetery, officiated by Pastors Marsha Bishop and Nick John. Military honors will be rendered by the Veterans of Gibson County. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be directed to Hearts for Haiti. Expressions of sympathy can be submitted at stodghillfuneralhome.com.

Hearts for Haiti
104 W. Walnut St, Fort Branch IN 47648
Web: http://heartsforhaitiin.org