On the evening of December 11, 2022 William (Bill) Leslie passed away suddenly and unexpectedly of natural causes while driving through Fillmore Utah. He had just celebrated his 63rd birthday. He passed doing one of the things he loved most, driving the open road in his semi.
Bill was born to Dale Leslie and Valeria (Betty) Brewer on 12/8/1959 in Helena, MT. Dale was in the Navy and they moved often eventually coming back to Helena where Bill grew up and got his GED. In high school he met Arletta (Priss) Sherlock and they were married November 16, 1979.
Bill and Priss had three Children, Misty, Angela, and Travis. Bill and Priss bought a piece of land in the Helena Valley and built a small horse ranch where they also raised their own pork and beef. Bill raised basset hounds for several years. Bill enjoyed collecting coins and being with his family and friends especially when out camping, sitting around the bonfires, driving and exploring new places in his JEEP ad helping others. One of his favorite past times was being on the open road looking at the world from the seat of his Big Rig. The Semi was his home away from home
Bill was always quick with a joke and would the first one to try to lighten the mood in a room. He passed this along with his love for animals onto his children and granddaughter. He was not one to ask for help but would be the first person to offer a hand, give away things that he thought other may need or hand out his last dollar, even if he needed it. If it would make someone smile or make their life a little easier. This could be seen when he would give people on the corners holding signs and he would give the cash if he has some on him.
Bill was very proud of his wife, children and his grandchild. He would often times tell them that he was, “not going to have anything to do with those damned animals!” but could then be found helping fix fence, helping move hay, or spending time with them. He had recently bought a donkey with his daughter. Many times he would come home and tell his family, “No more new animals!” He did this, knowing that it was a real possibility that the same conversation would take place the following week when he again came home from the road. He was also known for bringing home stray animals that were in need.
Bill worked for R&K Trucking for the last 10 years. Through the years Bill had driven for several different trucking companies including Watkins Shepard, Double Stud, Valley Excavating, Helena Sand and Gravel, and for a short time the oil fields. Over his driving career he had driven all over the United States and Canada and logged multiple millions of miles.
Bill is survived in death by his wife, Arletta (Priss) Leslie, daughter Misty (Luke) Sallee, son Travis Leslie, and granddaughter Eve Sallee. Brothers Steve, Jack (Nami), Ronald (Lori), James (Vicki), Johnny (Robin), and sisters, Mary Mortieau, and Anna (Steve) Duffy, Brother in law Jeff Sherlock, and many many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.
Bill was preceded in death by a daughter, Angela Leslie, parents Dale and Betty Leslie, brothers Lloyd, Frank, and William and sister Ruthie Leslie.
The family would like to thank everyone for the support and condolences during this time. We would especially like to thank the R&K Trucking family for all they done and continue to do for our family.
The family asks that donations be sent to the paralyzed veterans of America or another charity of your choice in Bill’s honor as he was so giving.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Lucy Corbett says
In this sad time I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to all of Bill’s family.
Billie Jo Williams says
Priss i am so sorry to hear of Billy’s passing i was in shock! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time!
Keith and Gail Hatch says
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Condolences to you and your family.
Robin says
My heartfelt condolences to you Priss and your family. May you be comforted in knowing Bill is with God and may you find comfort in His promises and all your family and friends at this time of sorrow. You are all in my prayers
Wanda Arlint says
Priss,
We are sorry to hear of the loss of your husband Bill.
Steve and Wanda Arlint
Flossie Shaw says
Priss and Fanily
Sending thoughts and prayers to you. So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing.
Lori Cole says
Priss, may your horses provide their tender love as they do. So sorry my friend, thinking of you and family.
Rick Marks says
I delivered firewood to your home just recently. So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I liked you both immediately. God be with you
Jeff Beck says
To the Leslie Family,
My sincere condolences to you upon hearing of Bill’s passing. Trust in the Almighty to help guide you through this time of sorrow. I first met Bill about 9 years ago when I joined R&K Trucking, and he quickly became a friend. He always came into the office with a joke and a smile. May he rest in peace.
Judi Taylor says
Prayers being lifted for Priss and family. God Bless. You are in my thoughts and prayers. If you need anything anytime please let me know. Giant hugs to you all.
Troy Christensen says
Bill was my hunting partner for several years. I will miss him.
Kathy Royston says
Dear Priss and family,
Sorry to learn of Bill’s passing. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Tim & Kathy (Garden) Royston
Nancy Paulson says
Priss and family,
We are sorry to learn of Bill’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you throughout this difficult time.
Nancy and Dale Paulson
Dave Brown says
Sorry to see Bill go. Now he can be forever in the passing lane with no traffic in front and no cops behind.
The bonfires won’t be the same…
Lois Steinbeck says
The first thought I have of Bill is that smile of his – I don’t recall a time when I was around him that he wasn’t smiling. Of course, we were usually at a bonfire at the Leslies’ place telling tall tales. His lasting legacy are his children – Misty and Travis – who are just as kind and thoughtful as both Bill and their mom, Priss. I will miss Bill. This world just won’t be the same without him.