HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE, Ark. -- Billy Gene "Bill" Proffer, 85, of Hot Springs Village passed away Saturday, Dec. 30, 2017, in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

He was born April 15, 1932, in Scott City to William and Elise Hargraves Proffer.

Bill enjoyed the many opportunities his career allowed him. He was a dedicated employee of 43 years at the Schering-Plough Corp., serving in pharmaceutical sales and management. Because of his excellent leadership abilities, his employees rewarded him with outstanding performances each year. His capability to train people in the workplace and his encouragement to others to reach their full potential made him very well respected and appreciated wherever he went in life.

Bill also enjoyed public speaking and was a member of Toastmasters International. He was an Army veteran of the Korean War.

In his spare time, he enjoyed auctioneering and golfing. He and his wife, Mary Ann, loved to travel and spending time with the many friends they met while living in various places around the country.

Bill is survived by his wife and lifelong soul mate, Mary Ann Hayden Proffer of Hot Springs Village; his daughter, Stephanie (Jeff) Jimes of Farmers Branch, Texas; his brother, Maurice Proffer of Hollister, Missouri; and other extended family members and friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will host a celebration of life from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday at the Diamante Country Club in Hot Springs Village.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Bill's name to the charity of your choice.

For online condolences, please visit www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale�The Hot Springs Village Funeral Home.