Biography: James William “Bill” Trimble, of Little Rock, left this world Friday, November 13, 2009 at his home. He was born on March 11, 1922 and married the love of his life, Frances Jane Stephens, on December 4, 1947. They were married almost 62 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Elmo Trimble of Texas and Nan Jones Trimble of Little Rock, and his brother, Robert Elmo Trimble of Little Rock. He is survived by his wife Frances Jane Stephens Trimble; four children; Janan Trimble Batchelor and husband Stephen of Little Rock, Joye Beatrice Trimble of Little Rock, Todd Bradford Trimble and wife Liz of Horatio, Arkansas, and Mark Stephen Trimble and wife Lisa of Little Rock. Other survivors are his grandchildren Ashley and Heather Batchelor, William Christian, Lauren Trimble, Justin, Stephanie, Robin and Christy Trimble. Bill enlisted in the United States Army on September 10, 1942, and served in the United States Air Force in the South Pacific. He was known for his many contributions to junior tennis, including his instrumental role in bringing the United States Tennis Association National Girls 12 and 14 and Boys 14 Tournaments to Little Rock. He was past president of the Arkansas Tennis Association, received the Volunteer Service Award for 30 years of National Service to the USTA including being a member of the Rules and Regulations Committee and National Rankings Committee of Junior Tennis. He was inducted into the Arkansas Tennis Hall of Fame in 1988. He was a graduate of Little Rock High School, a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity and graduated from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. He was a Master Gardener and a member of First United Methodist Church at Little Rock. He was a retired Executive of Stephens, Inc., following 43 years of service. He influenced the lives of many young people and we shall always remain grateful. Visitation will be Sunday, November 15, 2009 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Ruebel Funeral Home on Markham Street in Little Rock. Services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 16, 2009 at the First United Methodist Church with Reverend Michael Mattox officiating. The family would like to express their gratitude to Bill’s caregiver, Sue Bethea, for all of her kindness and special care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First United Methodist Church, 723 Center St., Little Rock, AR 72201 or Arkansas Tennis Association, 2024 Arkansas Valley Dr., Little Rock, AR 72212 in honor of Bill Trimble for junior tennis. Arrangements under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home. www.ruebelfuneralhome.com
Elise