William “Bill” Eugene Searing, the man the myth the legend, often imitated never duplicated, found his peace on August 25, 2023. Bill was born to the late William Asbury and Edna Katherine (Ramsey) Searing on July 31, 1951.

Bill's journey began when he graduated from Brazil High School in 1969. From there, he ventured forth into the world, choosing a path that required both bravery and sacrifice. He served his country in the US Army for four years, a Vietnam Veteran who wore his service as a badge of honor. Upon his return, he continued his dedication to duty, working as a Captain/Cadre for the Department of Corrections. His courage and leadership shone brightly as he served as a hostage negotiator for the Indiana Association of Hostage Crisis Negotiators, a role that demanded the strength of a lion and the cunning of a fox.

His service did not end there. He was a K9 Handler for the Department of Corrections, a role that required both discipline and compassion. His dedication to his community was evident in his proud membership of every emergency IDOC response team. Like the noble knights of old, he was always ready to answer the call of duty, always ready to serve.

Yet, Bill was not all duty and no play. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time with his grandbabies, their laughter and innocence a balm to his soul. He found solace in music, both in singing and listening, and in the rhythmic dance that accompanies it. His love for music extended to his free time, where he enjoyed being a DJ, spinning tunes that brought joy to others.

His love for games was evident in his fondness for three card poker, which he often played at various casinos with his beloved wife, Kelli. He was a master at Euchre, a game he enjoyed playing with friends and family. He was a man who knew how to celebrate, always enjoying a good Miller Lite on his birthday, the last one with his best buddy Bill and his youngest daughter Kelsey. He loved long talks on the phone with his brother, Rick. An avid sports fan, he loved watching the Women's College World Series of Softball, with his daughter Britaney, cheering on the teams with the fervor of a true supporter.

Bill was a man of many affiliations. He was a lifetime member of the VFW Post #1127, and the American Legion Post #2. He was a proud member of the Carbon Masonic Lodge, a brotherhood that spoke to his sense of community and camaraderie. He was also a member of the Zorah Shrine and Oriental Band, organizations that reflected his love for tradition and culture.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Vicki Lovins, and a brother-in-law, John Morris.

Bill is survived by his wife of over 30 years, Kelli Searing, two children, Britaney Moore (Adam), and Kelsey Lumsdon (Cam), six grandbabies, Brinnley, Lilly, Mari, Lil Bill, Nimita, and Ray Ray, and two very special friends that turned into family, Kim and Vanessa.

In the grand tapestry of life, Bill was a vibrant thread, weaving a story of courage, love, and humor. His life was a sonnet, a beautiful composition that spoke of bravery, dedication, and joy. He was a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and laughed heartily. He poured this love and humor into his grandbabies, Brinnley, Lilly, Mari, and Lil Bill. His life was a testament to the strength of the human spirit, a testament to the power of love and the resilience of the human heart.

So, let us raise a glass of Miller Lite to William Eugene Searing, to Bill, a man who lived his life with the courage of a knight, and the humor of a jester. His tale is now part of the ages, a story that will continue to inspire, to uplift, and to remind us of the beauty of a life well-lived. Farewell, good sir, and may your journey onwards be as full of joy and love as the life you lived here on earth.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, August 30th from 3-6:30 P.M. at Lawson-Miller Chapel, 1702 East National Avenue in Brazil, a funeral service will begin at 6:30 P.M. with full military honors presented.

Following the funeral, a meal will be held at The Lodge, 10185 N County Road 100 East, Brazil, Indiana 47834.