William Edward "Billy" Lark, Sr., 79, of Panama City, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026, in his hometown of Panama City.

Born on September 22, 1946, in Panama City, Florida, to James I. Lark and Carolyn Mann Lark, Billy was a lifelong resident of Bay County and a proud member of the community he loved.

A graduate of Riverside Military Academy, Class of 1964, Billy returned home after graduation and began his career with International Paper, where he formed lifelong friendships and earned the respect of his coworkers. He later worked alongside his father-in-law at Dixie Window Company for many years. Billy also worked at Miracle Strip Amusement Park and was instrumental in the long-term successful development of Shipwreck Island Water Park, helping create attractions that brought joy to generations of families along the Gulf Coast.

Though involved in projects that left a lasting mark on Panama City, Billy always considered himself a blue-collar worker. He took pride in working with his hands and could fix just about anything that needed fixing. His first car, a secondhand Ford Fairlane, became legendary in the family. Ruth often joked that Billy spent more time underneath it than behind the wheel, constantly tinkering and repairing it.

Billy was a familiar sight around town, often driving his late-model Blazer and enthusiastically waving to everyone he passed—whether he knew them or not. He never met a stranger and believed that a friendly wave could brighten someone's day.

One of Billy's most memorable traits was his habit of giving people nicknames. Some were fitting, some were questionable, and many made little sense to anyone but Billy. Yet if you were fortunate enough to receive one of his nicknames, you knew it was his way of showing affection. It was a unique expression of the warmth, humor, and genuine fondness he felt for those around him.

Another of Billy's great passions was spending time at his farm in northern Bay County with Ruth and his beloved Weimaraners. The farm was his happy place—a place where he could enjoy the outdoors, work with his hands, and spend time with those he loved most. An avid hunter and fisherman, Billy cherished the traditions and friendships that came with a life spent outdoors.

Whether he was in a deer stand, on the water, or atop his tractor tending to the farm, he found satisfaction in honest work and simple pleasures. The farm was more than a piece of land; it was a reflection of the life Billy loved—rooted in family, hard work, and a deep appreciation for God's creation.

Above all, Billy was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Ruth Lark, whose love and partnership were the foundation of his life. Together they built a family that became his greatest source of pride and joy.

Billy is survived by his loving wife, Ruth Lark; his daughter, Mary Elaine Lark Jolly (Robert); his son, William Edward Lark, Jr. (Mandy); and his cherished grandchildren, Rob Jolly, Ruthie Jolly, Lawsie Jolly, Hunter Lark, Mary Marie Lark, and William Lark, III.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James I. Lark and Carolyn Mann Lark.

Billy will be remembered as a humble and endearing man who never met a stranger. He possessed a quiet generosity that touched countless lives throughout the years. Whether offering a helping hand, sharing his time, or lending his skills to someone in need, Billy gave freely and without expectation. He never sought recognition, praise, or attention for his acts of kindness; helping others was simply part of who he was.

Those who knew Billy will remember his friendly wave from behind the wheel of his Blazer, his colorful nicknames, his love of family, his devotion to the outdoors, and his unwavering willingness to help anyone who needed him. His life was defined not by accolades or accomplishments, but by the relationships he built, the kindness he showed, and the quiet example he set for those around him.

Though he will be deeply missed, Billy leaves behind a legacy of love, humility, hard work, and generosity that will continue to live on through his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A funeral service celebrating the life of William Edward "Billy" Lark, Sr. will be held at First United Methodist Church of Panama City on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Visitation with the family will immediately follow the service.

Honorary Pallbearers: Carl Anderson, Les Burke, Webb Colmant, Powell Ennis, Jim Fensom, Bill Hughey, Russell Jinks, Randall McElheney, Jay Moody, Vance Nowell, Paul Sims.

In lieu of flowers, it was Billy's wish that memorial contributions be made to Riverside Preparatory Academy, 2001 Riverside Drive, Gainesville, Georgia 30501, or online at www.riversideprep.org.