William Clare Marris, 90, died Monday, March 24, 2005, in Fort Myers, Fla.

He was born July 7, 1914, in Piggott, the son of Rev. William H. and Oma Gilbert Marris.

After graduating from Piggott High School, he attended the University of Arkansas receiving his degree in chemistry in 1936.

During World War II he served in the United States Coast Guard with his last assignment being aboard the U.S.S. General A.W. Greely.

After serving his country, he continued his education at the University of Texas, where he received his M.B.A. in accounting in 1947. He began a long and successful career in the field of oil and natural gas.

Retiring to Sanibel, Fla., in 1978, he continued to pursue his love of boating. He was an active member of the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ. And through winning and losing seasons, he remained a loyal supporter of the Arkansas Razorbacks.

In 1988, he was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Jeanne.

He is survived by several nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews; and great-great-nieces and nephews; and by his friend and companion of many years, Kathryn Boyle.

Graveside services were held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 29, 2005, at the Piggott Cemetery.