William James Mashburn

William James Mashburn, 86, of Abilene, Texas, passed from this life on December 19, 2010. Graveside services will be held in Stith Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 22, with Reverend David Cason officiating, directed by The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. W.J. "Dub" Mashburn was born in Stith, Texas on November 19, 1924, to Carl Vestal Mashburn and Claudia Mae Latham. He attended Merkel Schools and enlisted in the United States Army serving in the Philippines during World War II from April of 1943 until January of 1946. After returning from his enlistment, he married Dolores Nell Ham in Abilene on March 8, 1946. Dub was employed by C.L. Cook and Sons for 17 years, and Dyess Air Force Base for 26 years, retiring in 1986. He was a Methodist. Working with his hands on projects both large and small gave Dub much pleasure, and he never turned down an opportunity to assist those needing advice and assistance. Many of the homes in Abilene were built with his expertise in quality craftsmanship and knowledge. As well as being an expert builder and carpenter, striving to be a supportive father was very important on Dub's list of priorities as his two sons were growing up. Coaching baseball, fishing, and encouraging both Larry and Terry's love of music gave them the positive background for becoming musicians, which they both still do currently. The Mashburn garage was a makeshift "practice room" full of musical equipment that was the focal point of the neighborhood's aspiring musicians and "listener friends". As well, Dub was a very much loved and devoted friend, mentor, and grandfather (lovingly known as "Papa") to his only grandson, Wesley Cole Mashburn, with whom he and Dolores spent countless weekends and summer vacations on fishing trips to Lake Spence. Those many times spent together observing, enjoying nature and each other were among the happiest and most memorable times of each of their lives. The family requests that in lieu of flower arrangements donations be made to Hendrick Hospice Care, 1682 Hickory St., Abilene, TX 79601. Survivors include his wife Dolores Mashburn, sons Larry Mashburn and Jorgette and Terry Mashburn and Pam, and grandson Cole Mashburn, all of Abilene, and one brother, Lloyd (Buddy) Mashburn of Lone Oak, Texas.