William "Bill" Beaty

William "Bill" Beaty 70 of Lancaster, Ohio was a legendary runner and coach and devoted family man. He had an indomitable loving spirit, great humility, and concern for others. Bill passed peacefully in the presence of his children on Wednesday, September 20th, 2023. Just 3 days shy of his 71st birthday. Following his stroke in 2015, he has battled and persevered through numerous health issues before departing this world. He was born on September 23rd, 1952 to the late Carl and Norma Beaty. He was a member of Victory Hill Church of God, Lancaster High School Graduate of 1970. Bill was recognized throughout his lifetime for his track and field abilities and some of his brightest achievements include: Inducted into the Ohio Hall of Fame for Track and Cross Country January 29th, 1993; Ohio Best Ever Run School Record 1967-68-69; All-District 1967-68-69 (Individual Champion in 68-69); Columbus Regional Champion 1968-69 (Record Holder); State Champion 1968-69; All American 1969-70; All American in US Track and Field Federation 1969-70; Selected by Track and Field Magazine as one of the top 15 best runners in the nation 1969; 3rd Place in the Golden Midwest 2 Mile Run. Bill loved swing dancing, delved into the world of science fiction, found solace in long hikes through the park, and delighted in creating culinary masterpieces. He had a soft spot for Hallmark Movies and the joy they brought him. Above all else, his children were his world. He is survived by his son, William Scott Beaty II; daughter, McKenzie Jo Beaty; mother of his children and devoted life-long friend, Amy Beaty all of Lancaster; half-brother, Brian (Karen) Adams and half-sister, Susie Yates all of Jackson, Ohio; several nieces, nephews, best friend, Rick Marshall of Columbus; his coach and mentor, Bob Reall of Montana and the Lancaster High School Lunch Bunch Class of 1970.

Funeral service will be held Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. in the FRANK E. SMITH FUNERAL HOME CHAPEL, 405 N. COLUMBUS ST., LANCASTER, OHIO 43130 with Pastor Aaron Begley officiating.

Burial will follow in Forest Rose Cemetery. Friends may visit Monday from 5-8 p.m. and Tuesday 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial gifts may be given to the Pickering House, 282 Sells Rd., Lancaster, Ohio 43130 in his memory.

To send an online condolence, and sign the guestbook, please visit www.funeralhome.com.