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Billy Gabriel “Bill” Hobson, age 78, of Grapeland, Texas passed away on Thursday, the 2nd day of July 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on the 17th day of February 1948, in Palestine, Texas, to parents Wesley Hobson and Carmen Chasten Hobson.
Bill was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful friend, and respected coach and teacher. He spent many years as an educator where he made a lasting impact on the lives of his students. Many proudly said that Mr. Hobson was their favorite teacher, remembering his kindness, patience, and dedication.
In his free time, Bill enjoyed hunting, collecting unique firearms, and working on antique cars alongside his brother, Don. He also looked forward to playing a game of 42 at Chapman's Hardware, where he shared laughter and fellowship with friends. He was a member of Muse Missionary Baptist Church and Texas State Coon Hunters Association. Coon and hog hunting introduced Bill to many of his close and treasured friends. He could usually be found with his friends and his dogs out in the woods.
More than anything, Bill treasured his family. He loved spending time with those he loved, especially his grandchildren, who brought him endless joy. He deeply loved his wife and devoted his life to caring for his family. Bill was known for his honesty, integrity, and dependable nature. He was the kind of man who would do anything for his friends or the people he loved, and his quiet strength and generous heart earned the respect of everyone who knew him.
Bill's legacy of love, kindness, and service to others will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, former students, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents Wesley and Carmen Hobson; brothers, Davy Joe Hobson and Chas Hobson.
Bill is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 52 years, Robbie Hobson; his cherished children, Kimberly Hobson, Chase Hobson and wife Bridget, and Reagan Gieseking and husband Peter; brothers, Burl Hobson, Sr. and wife Rita, Don Hobson and wife Kathy; sisters-in-law, Martha Hobson and Willie Mae Hobson; and treasured nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Bridger Hobson, Rhylan Hobson, Starling Hobson, J.R. Hobson, Ruthie-Mae Hobson, Audrey Gieseking, and Elanor Gieseking, each of whom held a very special place in his heart and brought him immense joy.
Funeral services to celebrate Bill’s life will begin at ten o’clock in the morning on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 with beloved nephew, Davy Hobson and long-time friend, Jamie Hogan officiating services at Muse Missionary Baptist Church (275 Anderson County Road 1219, Grapeland, TX 75844) with visitation preceding at nine o’clock. Interment to follow at Providence Cemetery.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Gunner Hobson, Gage Hobson, Casey Cooksey, Ricky Hassell, Will Yates, and Colton Hilliard. Honorary pallbearers include Scott Hilliard and Gary Lovell.
Please visit Bill’s online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Muse Missionary Baptist Church building fund to help others.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Billy "Bill" Gabriel Hobson, please visit our floral store.