Billy Ablin
February 21st, 1955 — April 9th, 2026
Billy D. Ablin passed away peacefully in St. Louis on April 9, 2026, at the age of 71. He was born in Pawhuska, OK on February 21, 1955.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo Benjamin Ablin and Betty Louise Ablin his beloved wife, Terry Lee Ablin (2023), the love of his life for nearly 44 years; his children, Caitlin Ablin and Zachary Ablin, both under 1 week old, his brother, Chester Charles Ablin; Sister in law Judi Emery (Elwell) and his parent in-laws Floyd and Eva Elwell.
Billy is survived by his son, Alex Samuel Ablin, and his cherished twin grandchildren, Benjamin Leo and Bella Lee Ablin, who meant the absolute world to him. He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Carla James and Sherry Myers. Brother in laws Floyd Elwell and husband Christopher Clinton Conway, Gary James, Ray Myers, John and Diane Elwell Belanger (sister-in-law) and David Dodds; along with nieces and nephews, including Amy Dodds, Nicky, Tomas, Josh, and Nayeli Mejia, Jen and Ben Myers, Taylor and Ashley James , Davis Kaufman, Bruce and Dylan Runion as well as cousins Sandi & Vicky Eaton. Ben and Bella’s mother, Megan Ham, and many friends, co workers, TKE brothers and Alex’s friends.
Billy was an athlete with an unmatched work ethic and relentless drive. He built his life on hustle, determination, passion, empathy and pride in everything he did. He was a leader, had grit, avid sports fan and collector and someone who poured into your cup, always, without judgement.
Terry was the love of his life, Alex was their miracle after 5 years and they had an incredible bond and life together. The love he had -for her and Alex was poured into everyone whose life he touched. Billy’s mother Betty, shaped into an incredible soul as she was. He truly was a man of God who cared deeply for others and lived his life with faith, generosity, and heart.
Dad was a force—an incredible worker, leader, and provider. He grew up fearless regardless of his size and that rolled into his professional career. He spent the majority of his career as a Walmart store manger with many relocations to “get it done”. Sam Walton saw something in him early on, personally selecting him as one of the first five Supercenter managers and becoming friends. His confidence, personality and drive was no joke.
Beyond his professional achievements, swagger and heart- Billy was a devoted father and an incredible grandfather. Some of life’s best moments were the simplest—playing pool, listening to oldies music full blast, cardinals games, and sharing stories that made lasting memories. He had a way of making those around him feel something real, cared for, loved, a big conversationalist and those moments will be carried on forever.
Billy also showed unwavering love and strength in caring for his family and his wife in her final 5 years, always putting others before himself. His son could not be more proud of the man he was and his impact.
There will not be a day that goes by that he isn’t remembered.
In Lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Billy’s Twin Grandkids college fund: https://gofund.me/623469f66
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, 6/6/2026
Time – TBD
Location – Kirkwood, MO
Venue – TBD
If someone asked me who I thought was probably the nicest person I’ve ever met I think it would be your dad. Truly he was a gem always interested and remembering the smallest details about people. Bill was a great conversationalist and always had a story and loved to photograph everyone and everything . This heart was solely for Terry. They were true soulmates, so rare and lovely to witness. He was so very proud of you and was impressed of what a great dad you are to Ben and Bella.He was so proud .. I will miss Bill and his random phone calls “Just checking in”. I will always hear his positive voice .
Legend.
As a child remember mr lhe Leo so fondly always had a passion for the kids ans we respected him so much he was a great man RIP mr Leo
Looking at his photo brought back a flood of memories. May he rest in peace.
I knew Billy from high school and into my and his 20’s. He was always a tough guy, a lot tougher than me! But he was often the life of the party and I always treasured his friendship from those days but unfortunately I lost Track of him in later years. I will always treasure the many memories and especially his father Leo who I was given many words of wisdom by!
Billy and I played baseball against each other and he was a great player! Always had a lot of respect for him and he was as hard nosed as you could get but I always considered him a friend! His dad was sure proud of his athleticism back in the day! Prayers for his family!
I have lost a lot of friends in my 70 years of life, but this one hits the hardest. Our family has very close ties. My mother and Aunt Maxine worked for Leo when my mom was 14 and he was like a father to her and my Aunt and us kids as well. They nicknamed him Popeye because he wore glasses that were so thick they made his eyes seem to appear larger then they were. He and Betty both loved mom and my Aunt Maxine. They also worked at the Park N Eat. Leo was like a dad to me. Leo and George had a make shift ring in Leo’s yard. Anytime anyone of us had a dispute it was settled in the ring with boxing gloves. When BillyD was eighteen he told me come with him and said he was going to buy a car. I laughed and said how is that possible. He then told me that he got a check after the age of eighteen and to tell no other kids. I did not. We went to the car dealership where the IGA was and walked in. This young lady say with a smirk, how can I help you boys. BillyD said I want to buy that 442 Cutlas. She laughed and said be serious. BillyD said I am, I have a check for 5000 dollars and I want to pay cash. He also said I want a big red ribbon 🎀 around it with a big bow on top. The next day he came and got me and sure enough there it was. The biggest bow and ribbon I have ever seen. We drove it off of the showroom floor. Our families had a unbreakable love for each other and still do. To sum it up I will end this by saying you and your family will always be mine. And in the words of the man BillyD, Tony my man, my main man. As far back as my memory goes, your are in them. Love you my brother and will see you again.
Thank you, my brother, for a lifetime of memories.
Billy D. As we know him from childhood. He always called me his favorite cousin, he was mine as well. I miss those hour long conversations and stories he told me, some over and over again but always funny. He was such a joy. I admired the way he treated Terri and Alex. You knew he cherished both every minute of every day. One of my favorite stories: he and Terri had an argument? It seemed really bad at the time because Terri threw her suitcase on the bed and said, “I’m leaving. ‘. Billy D did the same. She looked at him and in disgust said, Well, where are you going?” Billy D replied, “Wherever you’re going!” Terri cracked up, they made up and both unpacked their bags. That was Billy, irresistible and irresistibly funny. He exuded peace and joy in his life, with his wife. And especially with his precious son, Alex. He adored him and used the same humor and gentleness in raising him don’t get me wrong though, you wouldn’t want to mess with him, his store or his family. My most favorite Walmart story: Years ago there was a thievery ring running out of the stores with high value items. A guy runs out with a tv running, but not fast enough. Billy D chased home for many blocks. The guy got the word out to not steal from that Walmart because there was a crazy man working there. I’ll miss him and especially his many life stories which kept me laughing for hours. He’ll be sorely missed.
I remember Bill as an assitant manger at 179 in Springfield, Mo. O believe it was 91 or 92. He had an interesting way of explaining things, but he was a great story teller. seeing this brought memories