Thursday, October 1, 2026
Billy C. Hand (Bill), a pioneering nuclear engineer, devoted family man, and lifelong adventurer, passed away peacefully on Oct. 7, 2025, at the age of 90. He leaves behind a legacy of love, curiosity, and exploration that will live on through his family and all those who were fortunate to know him.
Born to William and Dorothy Hand May 2, 1935, Bill was preceded in death by his beloved parents and sisters, Jeanette Boettner Dowell and Carolyn Hand Rothwell. He now joins them in eternal life.
Bill proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was an early innovator in the field of nuclear engineering. Bill brought brilliance and integrity to his profession, helping to shape the future of energy with a steady hand and a sharp mind. But it was outside of work where his passions truly soared.
Bill’s love for his Lord and Savior led him to help build the original Lakeside Baptist Church, where he and his wife were charter members.
An avid snow skier, hunter, gardener, and proud grower of pecans and peaches, Bill embraced every season with purpose and joy. He was an adventurer in the truest sense — always seeking the next trail, the next mountain, the next open sky. His most cherished adventures, however, were those shared with his children and grandchildren. Whether camping under the stars, exploring new landscapes, or simply telling stories by a fire, he created unforgettable memories that will live on for generations.
As a husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, Bill gave freely of his time, wisdom, and heart. He loved deeply, laughed often, and never missed an opportunity to encourage those around him to live life fully.
He will be dearly missed by his loving wife of sixty-five years, Mary Kathleen; his children, Kerri Hand Larkin and spouse Tom, William Hand and spouse Barbara, and Carol Dawn Hand Bryan and spouse Brady, 13 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; multiple nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of family and friends who admired and adored him.
A celebration of his life will be held at Lakeside Baptist Church in Granbury Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Woundedwarriorproject.org, or simply take a moment to embrace nature — ski a slope, plant a tree, or take a child on an adventure — in his honor.
