The Oatley community is mourning the passing of Vietnam veteran William "Billy" Wright, aged 81 years.

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Mr Wright was a former president of the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch, RSL Life Member, local author and longtime resident whose contribution to the St George district spanned decades.

He served as a helicopter mechanic during Australia's deployment during the Vietnam War before continuing a respected aviation career with Qantas, where he was known for his technical skill,professionalism and generosity as a mentor.

Mr Wright's impact on Oatley was equally enduring. As Sub-Branch president, he strengthened local remembrance traditions, supported veterans and their families, and helped preserve the district's military history through his writing and community projects.

"Billy embodied the best of our community - humble, loyal and always ready to serve," said Clay Marks, president of the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch. "We will miss his steady presence and his deep commitment to the people of Oatley. His legacy will be felt for many years to come."

"The Sub-Branch extends its deepest condolences to Billy's family and friends."

Last Anzac Day, Mr Wright was honoured by the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch by being featured in its panoramic new mural honouring the service and sacrifice of three local Anzac heroes.

Located on the exterior wall of the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch Hall at 23 Letitia Street, the mural has been created as a permanent tribute to the Anzacs who lived, served, and returned to the St George district.

The mural, by artists Adrian and Nikki Marchio of Airbrush World, shows three Oatley service personnel - Able Seaman Doug Wickens (WWII), Spitfire Pilot Officer John McDowell who was killed in action in Darwin in 1943, and Corporal William 'Billy' Wright (Vietnam War).

At the time of its unveiling, Mr Wright described the mural as awe-inspiring.

"I don't know how the artists do it so well but when you look at the work it flows," he said.

Mr Wright is shown in the mural with his Sioux helicopter in Vietnam.

Last year, the Oatley RSL Sub-Branch hall was named in honour of Mr Wright.

Mr Wright was conscripted into the Australian Army in February 1966, joining 1 Battalion as an Infantryman, before transferring to The Royal Corps of Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME) in 1967.

In 1968, he was posted to RAAF Amberley with the Australian Army Aviation Corps at number 5 base workshops, where his journey led him to Vietnam in 1969 as a Corporal Engine Fitter based at Nui Dat with the Australian Army Aviation Corps.

During his deployment, Mr Wright played a crucial role in supporting various aircraft through his aircraft engineering role, including the Sioux helicopter, Pilatus Porter, and Cessna 180, in vital operational missions such as forward air control and medical evacuation.