Bill received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Georgia State University in Atlanta and his Master of Science degree in Engineering from the Naval Post-Graduate School in Monterey, Calif. Bill was a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, retiring as a lieutenant commander in 1996. During his time in the military, he voyaged all over the world, which instilled in him a lifelong love for travel and adventure.
Bill was married to Lori Alexander, with whom he raised their two children, Thomas, 22, and Caitlin, 20.
Bill's passions included running, hiking, sailing, traveling, raising tropical fish, learning foreign languages, and studying history and the natural sciences. Bill held a deep appreciation for the natural environment, and was well known for his sense of humor and penchant for storytelling.
At the time of his death, Bill was employed as a reliability engineer at Gerdau Ameristeel's Cartersville steel mill.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Lori, his son, Thomas, and his daughter, Caitlin; a sister, Elizabeth Coley and husband, Steven; and brothers James, Patrick and Sean. He is preceded in death by his father and mother.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 31, at 10 a.m. at the Cedar Plantation, 4610 Northside Drive, Acworth, GA 30101.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Coastal Conservation League, http://coastalconservationleague.org, P.O. Box 1765, Charleston, SC 29402. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation Society and Memorial Centers in Marietta, 770-420-5557.