IBEW Local 301

09/04/2026

07/20/2026

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our friend and coworker, Dru Wilson. While Dru had only been with the cooperative for a short time, he quickly became part of our family. His kindness, hard work, and friendship will be deeply missed.

To allow our employees the opportunity to attend services and honor Dru's memory, our office lobby will be closed from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15th. Our phone lines will remain open, and crews will continue responding to outages and service calls as needed.

Thank you for your understanding as our cooperative family comes together to remember and celebrate Dru's life.

07/20/2026

Brother William Roy Ward, age 88, of Lufkin, Texas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.

William dedicated to the electrical trade, retiring from International Paper. He was a proud member of IBEW Local 301 for more than 62 years and was deeply committed to the values of the Brotherhood throughout his life. In addition to his career, William faithfully served his country in the Arkansas National Guard.

Brother Ward is Death Benefit Fund #147.

William Roy Ward, age 88, of Lufkin, Texas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 5, 1937, in Prescott, Arkansas, to Elva Evelyn Moore Ward and James Hesterly Ward. William dedicated his career to the electrical trade, retiring after

06/15/2026

Brother Billy Lewis passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2026. Brother Lewis proudly served in the United States Army before beginning his 58 years of membership with the IBEW, joining in January 1968. He completed the apprenticeship program and went on to become a Master Electrician.

Brother Lewis dedicated his life to his craft and the Brotherhood, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

A celebration of Billy Carl’s life will be announced at a later date.

Billy Carl was born on November 13, 1948 to Jessie Lee Lewis and Ruth Strickland Lewis.  He graduated from Redwater High school, married the love of his life Betty Kight,  and joined the Army where he served for 6 years before joining the apprenticeship program with the IBEW local 301 in Texarkana...

06/09/2026

James Ishmael, former 301 member, current member of Local 570, passed away while working out of Local 194. Although "Ishmael" was not our member anymore, he frequented our local and remained in touch with many locals.

The family is holding his memorial at the Union Hall this Saturday, June 13th at 1pm for those able to come and show your respects. Please keep his son and other family members in your prayers.

James Monroe Ishmael, III, aged 48, passed away on June 4, 2026 in Bossier City, LA. He was born on December 7, 1977 in Fredericksburg, TX. James wil…