William J. Townsend

William J. Townsend, 71, of Connersville, died Thursday morning, January 8, 2015, at Fayette Regional Health Systems where he had been admitted earlier in the day. “Bill” was a native of Richmond, born November 29, 1943 to William Joe and Grace Penland Townsend and was a 1962 graduate of Richmond High School. On June 15, 1967, he was married in Richmond, Kentucky to the former Cathy S. Ringley. They came to the Connersville area in 1970 and in 1976, began Fayette Sign Company. Bill loved all types of animals and had owned and operated Cherokee Flats Horse Farm in Union County. He was an avid Harley motorcycle enthusiast. Bill was a member of Higher Praise Worship Center where he originated a motorcycle ministry known as “God’s Messengers.” He also conducted a ministry at the Fayette County Jail. Bill was affectionately known as a great husband, father and grandfather. Bill is survived by his wife of over 47 years; his children and their spouses; Tonya Rogers and Bill of Connersville; Angel Brown of St. Pete Beach, Florida; Melissa Gulley and Keith of Orlando, Florida; William Joe Townsend II and Jennifer of Connersville; Nannette Hudson and her significant other, Gary Harvey of Liberty; his brother and wife; Wilburn Douglas Townsend and Sharon of Eaton, Ohio; his sister and husband: Darlene Cobb and Paul of Middletown, Ohio; his mother-in-law: Catherine Ringley of Connersville; thirteen grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews; and his Chihuahua dog, Petie. In addition to his parent, Bill is preceded in death by two sisters: Joann and Deanna Kay Townsend; his brother: Darrell Franklin Townsend; and a grandson: Jack Dillon. Funeral services will be conducted at 12 p.m. Tuesday at Higher Praise Worship Center with Dennis Perkins officiating. Interment will be in Goshen Cemetery in Wayne County at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. Friends may visit at the church from 10 a.m. Tuesday until the time of service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Higher Praise Worship Center. Showalter Blackwell Long Funeral Home, Myers Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.