Bill D. Counts, 79, of Deer, died Saturday, November 13, 2021, at his home.  He was born April 10, 1942 in Hindsville to John and Myrtha (Davis) Counts.

Bill graduated from Springdale High School in 1960. As a young man he was called to preach, and after graduating from Baptist Bible College in May of 1971, he began his life's work of over 50 years as a pastor.  At the time of his death, he was pastoring the Deer Baptist Church.

Bill married Ruth Elaine DeFore on April 23, 1966 at Temple Baptist Church in Springdale.  Their marriage of 55 years lasted until her death in August of this year.  Together they were devoted to each other, their family, and their Lord.

He is survived by three sons, Mark Counts and wife Robbin of Deer, Mike Counts and wife Ona, Paul Counts and wife Sherri; two brothers, Loy Counts and Bob Counts; two sisters, Vern "Faye" Hiblong and Linda "Susie" Masters; nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.  Bill is also preceded in death by siblings, Betty Counts, Carl Counts, Curt Counts and Kenneth Counts.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday, November 19, at Deer Baptist Church with Mike Counts officiating. Interment will be at Deer Cemetery .  Bearers will be Nathan Counts, Tim Counts, John Counts, Matt Counts, Loy Dale Counts and Brandon Romans.

No viewing or visitation is planned.