The family moved to Jackson by the time he started school, and Bill graduated from Central High in 1953. Bill continued his education at Mississippi College where he graduated with a degree in chemistry. He had various jobs on campus, and during the summers he worked for Armstrong Cork Company (now known as Armstrong World Industries). While attending MC he played basketball, baseball, ran track setting a record in the broad jump and found a passion for coaching young boys in football, baseball, and basketball. Coaching young men in these sports became a lifetime activity for Bill.
Bill met his wife, Carole, in one of the chemistry classes, and he always said she was the best thing he got out of that class. They dated for a couple years and finally married in August of 1957, just before their final year at Mississippi College.
Bill joined the Naval Reserves when he was 17 years young (his mom had to sign the papers for him). He worked for Armstrong Cork in the lab for a few months after graduating college. He had applied to Officer Candidate School in Newport, RI and was accepted and left in January.
After graduating with Ensign, he was off to Wes Pac, and Carole was pregnant with their first baby. Bill was in Yokosuka, Japan when Billy was born. He returned to San Diego where he was reunited with Carole and his son, Billy.
From there the family moved to Tacoma, Washington where Lisa was born. After five years of active duty, Bill returned to the civilian life and he and his family landed in Pensacola, Florida. It was in Pensacola that he went to work for Armstrong again, and they had their other children Bobby and Jim. Bill remained in the Reserves until he retired. During that time, among other things, he was CO of the Sea Cadet unit for over 17 years and retired as a Captain.
Bill was an exceptional dad and grandfather! He seldom missed a ballgame or a swim meet in which all four of his children were often involved. He coached many of his sons’ baseball and basketball games as well.
Bill was an active member of the First Baptist Church from the time the family joined in 1963. He was instrumental in starting a city-wide church basketball program; as well as being greatly involved in the building of the CAC as part of FBC’s outreach ministry. He coached many basketball and softball teams with the church. He was also an active Deacon and served on many committees including the Recreation Committee.
Bill is predeceased by his parents, a special aunt, and his oldest son, Billy. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Carole; his daughter, Lisa Lowery (Gregg); his sons, Robert (Beverly) and Jim (Shawn); grandchildren, Lauren Rich (James), Andi Taylor (Zac), Hank Thompson, Jimmy Thompson, and Abbie Thompson; great grandchildren, Jax and Gemma Rich, and Livi and Cole Taylor; his sister, Ruth Morris; and sister-in-law, Glenda Fletcher Loviza; as well as nieces and nephews.
There will be a visitation held at First Baptist Church in Pleitz Chapel on Friday, May 26th at 11:00 AM followed by a service at 12:00 PM. His interment will take place at Barrancas National Cemetery at 2:00 PM on Friday, May 26th with full military honors. Active pallbearers are, Robert Thompson, Jim Thompson, James Rich, Zac Taylor, Hank Thompson and Jimmy Thompson. Honorary Pallbearers are Jax Rich, Jack Logsdon, James Callaway and Johnny Madison.
The family would like to say a special thanks to VITAS Health Care for the excellent care they gave him under Hospice. There are too many precious people to name, but each one seemed to take a special interest in Bill and his comfort. The family does want to say a special thanks to God for two angels He sent, Chrissie and Emily. God sent them as caregivers in the months ahead of his Hospice care, they became like family and for that the family will always be thankful.
BAYVIEW FISHER-POU CHAPEL, 3351 Scenic Hwy entrusted with arrangements. Fond memories and wishes of condolence may be offered at www.bayviewfisher-pouchapel.com.
