Billy Beeson, a 1949 LC graduate, is known throughout the state for his excellent coaching skills. He began his personal athletic career at Tioga High School where he lettered in both basketball and baseball before graduating in 1944. After serving his country in the U.S. Navy, Beeson returned home and entered Louisiana College.
At LC, Beeson became a starting guard for Coach Jimmy Keeth and served as basketball team captain during his senior year. He also lettered in baseball while getting his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education and Biology.
While coaching and teaching in various schools in Louisiana and Texas, Beeson earned his Master's degree from the University of Houston. In 1959, he returned to Pineville as the head basketball coach at Pineville High School.
During his years at PHS, Beeson compiled a winning record of 141 wins and 38 losses. In 1963 he coached the Rebels to their first district basketball championship. He followed with a repeat performance in 1964 and was named "Coach of the Year" in 1962, 63, and 64.
The "Beeson Stable" produced such outstanding athletes as Don Bates, Billy Jones and Ronnie Kaiser. The athletes he coached and sent to LC have made an undeniable contribution to LC athletics.
Beeson is married to the former Ayme Brunson, a 1964 graduate. They have two children: Stan, a 1973 graduate, and Sherry Earnest. They also have four grandchildren.
The Wildcat Athletic Association proudly inducted Billy Beeson into the Louisiana College Sports Hall of Fame on February 26, 1998.
