William David Indian Sr., 60 of Dripping Springs, left this world on Jan. 8, 2014, after a long battle against liver disease. While waiting on a liver transplant, he was diagnosed with a fatal fungal infection. He fought valiantly for six weeks until it claimed his life. Will spent his last days with his wife and family at his side, surrounded by love.
Will was born in Schenectady, New York on Sept. 16, 1953, to Tom and Ann Indian. He moved to Lake Jackson, Texas, in 1976 and settled in the Austin area in 1982, where he continued a uniquely successful music career. Will was a lead guitarist, band manager, local DJ, music teacher and songwriter.
He played lead guitar for the James Hand Band, Cornell Hurd Band, Nortons, Rhythm Rats, Sideshow Five, and countless others and was honored to play with such greats as Bo Diddley, Clifford Scott, and Pinetop Perkins. His proudest career moment was when B.B. King told him, “You play good blues for a white boy.”
In addition to music, Will was a teacher assistant at Walnut Springs Elementary School and Dripping Springs Elementary School for more than 17 years where he taught, mentored and loved children in the special education program. Will was a caring teacher, one who brightened everyone’s day with a song, his wit and by witnessing his interactions with the students. He also taught guitar to many of our local youth and adults.
Will was preceded in death by his brother Martin Tyrrell Indian.
He is survived by the love of his life and wife, Lynn Sue Indian; two children, Lucinda and Will Jr.; three step-children and two grandchildren, Ami Brezina and husband, Luke, Mitchell Felker and sons, Michael and Archer, and Wesley Felker; his parents, Tom and Ann Indian; siblings, Tom Indian lll and wife Linda, John Indian and wife Sandy, Cindy Ponzi and husband John, and Eric Indian; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service was held in Lake Jackson at New Beginnings Church on Jan. 14, 2014.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 2-5 p.m. Feb. 23 at Saxon Pub, 1320 S. Lamar in Austin. Come join his family and numerous friends to honor Will, a faithful friend, master musician and caring teacher.
