William "Bill" Brinkley

WILLIAM BRINKLEY was born on May 22, 1930 to Hurley and Mattie Brinkley in Indianapolis, Indiana. William entered eternal peace on June 21, 2021.

William accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Eastern Star Church located in Indianapolis, Indiana. It was not uncommon to enter William’s household and hear him singing some of his favorite songs from Handwriting on the Wall to If you ever needed the Lord or, to see him listening quietly to his gospel music.

William attended Crispus Attucks High School and soon thereafter married Betty Jean Pepper on July 7, 1951, and from that union six children were born. William was an extremely hard worker, sometimes working 2-3 jobs at the same time. William retired from Indianapolis Public Schools after 30 plus years of service. He was an honorable and humble man who undeniably did the 3 p’s. He professed, protected, and provided for his family.

William served in the military branch of the United States Army during the Korean War and received an honorable discharge.

William had a giving and generous heart. He always thought of others from contributing to a charity, to giving to the homeless which he was passionate about. Judge not least you be judged he would say.

William was active throughout his life. One of the things he liked to do was play a card game called Dad which he played for years, and he was very, very, good at it. He taught his kids the game who liked it as much as he did. It was always a good time when they played, and the competition was on. He enjoyed being around his family and he would say it, family was everything and that they were his heart. His family was close-knit and his reason for living. He was a devoted brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, great-great grandfather, uncle, and friend. Only peace was allowed in his presence, no discord.

William had humor. He would jokingly call himself (William Aloysius J Brown Jr. the III) and get a big laugh out of the family.

William leaves to cherish his memory his wife (Betty), six children, Janet Brinkley, Walter Brinkley, William Brinkley Jr. (Hazel), Valetta Brinkley, Maria Cox (Ballard), and Brenda Brinkley. (7) grandchildren, (15) great grandchildren, (1) great-great grandchild, (1) sister (Loretta Hatchett), along with a host of nephews, nieces, and friends.

William’s presence, personality and character will forever be missed along with his wisdom and knowledge. God created such a wonderful gift. He created William.