Bill H. Hitt, a longtime trainer in the region, passed away Wednesday, January 30, at his residence in Red Springs, Texas, at the age of 81. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m.. Saturday, February 2, at the Red Springs Baptist Church, with Rev. Steve Sullwold, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, and Rev. Aaron Hall, pastor of the Red Springs Baptist Church, officiating. Interment will be in the Henson Cemetery under the direction of Seymour Memorial Funeral Home.

Bill was born April 30, 1931, in Henderson County, Texas, to Roscoe C. and Florence Spikes Hitt. He married Jo Ann Parker on May 9, 1962, in Littlefield, Texas. He was a trainer of a public stable of racehorses for many years, and was a U.S. Air Force Veteran of the Korean War. He was a member of the Red Springs Baptist Church. According to Equibase, he trained more than 300 winners during his career and the earners of $2.2 million.

He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann of Red Springs, Texas; a son, Eric Kyle Hitt of Euless, Texas; a daughter, Valarie Hitt of Euless,Texas; a grandson, William Hitt of Albuquerque, N.M.; his former daughter-in-law, Kathleen Hitt of Albuquerque, N.M. ; and numerous cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and by one sister, Winnell Hitt.

Memorials may be made to the Red Springs Baptist Church or the Red Springs Community Center.

Visitation will be held from 6:30-8 p.m. Friday evening at the funeral home.