He was born in Calvary, Georgia and grew up in Havana, Florida. After graduation from Gadsden County High School, Bill joined the United States Air Force. After training in Mississippi and New Mexico, he served in Iceland as a radar technician.
After his time in the Air Force, he returned to Florida and began a career with the State of Florida Retirement System and Office of the Auditor General. He served 26 years with the State, retiring in 1999 in the Systems Division as Manager, Production Control.
His wife, Dee Harper Dalton, who he met after settling in Tallahassee, preceded him in death.
Throughout his lifetime, Bill was active in his church, serving various roles, including Finance Committee, Church Treasurer, Board of Trustees, and Vice President of the Men’s Fellowship. He enjoyed participating in small groups and teaching Sunday School.
Bill’s passions were fishing, grilling, DIY projects at his home, and anything related to westerns and cowboy life. He enjoyed reading Louis L’Amour novels. He was known for growing citrus including Satsumas and Meyer lemons.
Bill is survived by his daughter, Sheryl D. Hicks; son-in-law, Ralph E. Hicks, Jr.; granddaughter, Susannah; and his brother, Joe Dalton.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Missions Fund at Freedom Church Assembly of God, 2797 Thomasville Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32308.
