Evans, GA - William Winkler Walthall passed away peacefully on May 16, 2012. He was born in Farwell, TX, to Carl and Nelle (Bryant) Walthall. After his mother died shortly after his birth, he and his siblings were raised in Houston, TX, by their aunt and uncle, Robert and Cora Stone. He attended Montrose Elementary and Lamar Junior High. He was then sent to prep school at Phillips Academy in Andover, MA, to complete his schooling and further his training in piano.
He served with honor in the United States Navy attached to the Admiral’s Atlantic fleet where he played in the band. He also served at the Naval School of Music where he conducted, taught and continued to play both piano and French horn.
Upon discharge from the Navy, he worked for Remington Rand in NYC and later Diebold in Canton, OH. He returned to Houston, TX, to become Diebold Branch Manager and later founded and ran two successful corporations in Houston, the last one being Houston Office Systems, Inc.
He is survived by 3 sons and 2 daughters: Robert (Melanie) of Austin, TX; Andrew and James of Salt Lake City; Lisa Rosenbaum (Phil) of Austin, TX; and Suzanne Davis of Land O Lakes, FL. He was preceded in death by his son, Bill, Jr. He is also survived by his wife, Jan (Elizabeth) of Evans, GA, with whom he shared an enduring love for 32 years.
During his years in Houston, he and Jan and other family members sailed Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico out of Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook, TX. He and Jan lived in Weaverville, NC, from 1988-2005. During his retirement years in western N. C., Bill used his musical talent and training to serve the Lord in numerous area churches by singing in the choir, serving as church pianist, and directing the choir at one area church. He blessed many as he used his talent to praise the Lord.
After moving to Evans, GA, in 2005, he became an active member of Warren Baptist Church and was a member of the Jenkins-Hottle Sunday School Class. He was also a member of West Lake Country Club.
He died after an extended period of cancer and heart surgeries and subsequent radiation and chemotherapy. He passed away peacefully at home with his wife and nurse by his side. He looked forward to Heaven and being reunited with so many who preceded him. During his many medical trials and extended period of declining health, he continued to thank God for his blessings.
Many have been inspired by his talents, kindness, humility, gentleness and impeccable manners. He faced his medical adversity with dignity, hope and resolve. Those who loved him must now learn to soar on broken wings.
Visitation will be held in the Chapel of Warren Baptist Church, Augusta, GA, from 1:30 – 3:00 on Saturday, May 19, 2012, followed by his celebration of life service at 3:00 also in the chapel.
In lieu of flowers, we suggest that you make a donation to CaringBridge, Donation Processing Center, P.O. Box 6032, Albert Lea, MN 56007-6632.