Bill

Willie Alfred “Bill” Starr, 94 years of age, resident of Mangum, Oklahoma, passed away on September 20, 2021 at his home in Mangum. Bill was born on October 22, 1926, to his parents, Preston and Anna B. Chapman Starr. Bill had two older brothers, William Wesley Starr and James Gordon Starr. Bill attended 12 years of school in Mangum and graduated in 1945. Sports was an important part of Bill’s school curriculum in High School. He played both basketball and football. His position with the Mangum Tigers was quarterback. He also has the distinction of being the first player to “kick off” what was then the newly built Liberty Bowl Stadium. World War II was nearly the end when Bill answered the call of his nation to serve in the Army for two years. Bill was a baker and cook in Little, Rock Arkansas at Fort Joseph Robinson. After his service to our nation was complete, Bill enrolled in southwestern on a football scholarship for two years, from 1947-1949, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Education. Bill continued his education at Oklahoma University, graduating with a Masters Degree in School Administration in 1954. In 1957 he also received a professional certificate from the University of Oklahoma. He spent twenty-one years coaching and teaching in the public schools at Gotebo, Mountain View, Anadarko and Altus. While in Altus, he was the coach of Central Junior High, then served as the Athletic Director and principal for Altus High School. After leaving Altus, Bill spent seventeen years with the Oklahoma State Department of Education. He retired in 1987. Bill is survived by his son Billy Bob Starr and wife Ruth; and granddaughter Tara Starr; As well as numerous nieces and nephews.