Billy Harold Messer

Billy Harold Messer lived a remarkable life that carried him from the mountains of West Virginia to the battlefields of Vietnam, through busy print shops in Columbus, and onto the golf courses of central Ohio and North Carolina, before his final journey home.

Born on November 3, 1948, in Stonecoal, West Virginia, Bill was one of eight children of John and Columbia Messer. He moved to Columbus’s Victorian Village neighborhood and graduated from Central High School during the Vietnam War. When his draft notice arrived, he answered the call, serving with the 82nd Airborne Division. He often credited a wise and heroic company commander for guiding him safely through patrols and firefights. He returned home determined to live by principle, doing things the right way rather than the easy way.

At the heart of his life was his wife, Sandra Wearly, whom he met in Columbus in the late 1970s. They married in 1981 and built a loving home filled with family and friends. Bill worked for thirty years at the Ohio State University Printing Facility before continuing in the print industry and later becoming a driver for several local car dealerships. An excellent left-handed golfer, he brought joy to countless fellow players during his and Sandy’s vacations in North Carolina. He was a devoted fan of Cincinnati’s professional sports teams and took special pride in Ohio State’s recent national football championships.

Bill was known for his sharp wit and willingness to speak his mind, often with a touch of ornery humor that lightened the moment. Beneath that exterior lay a heart of gold, especially evident in the delight he took in spending time with his grand-nephews, grand-nieces, and great-grand nephews. He loved dogs, camping, the open road, the Outer Banks, the crisp sound of a well-struck golf shot, washing and waxing his vehicles, a good cigar, practical jokes, and above all, his country. A proud patriot, he embodied courage, resilience, loyalty, hard work, and good humor.

Bill is survived by his wife, Sandra; his brother, Homer Messer; his sister, Irene (Bob) Stover; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings.