William Edward Whitford Jr, “Bill” passed away on June 12, 2025, at the age of 86. Bill was born in Durham, North Carolina, and attended Duke University prior to joining the United States Air Force where he served as a Navigator. Bill was predeceased by his wife Margaret of sixty-three years. Bill and Margaret shared three children, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Bill had a fierce love for his family, knowledge, and exploration. He excelled in his career and personal pursuits with a spirit of adventure. Throughout his career, Bill lived and worked with his wife Margaret and family in multiple cities across the United States. Bill always found joy in immersing himself in and appreciating the culture and vibrance of each place.

His spirit extended to his dedication to community service, most recently as a volunteer with the Sun City Center Emergency Squad alongside his wife Margaret for many years.

Bill loved sailing and spent a good deal of time traveling the Caribbean by boat with life-long friends and teaching his children to sail on the waters of the Long Island Sound. Among his favorite pastimes was star gazing where he spent time with his family sharing his knowledge of constellations and navigation.

Bill was known for his wisdom, kindness, and willingness to help others. He will be celebrated not only for his achievements but for the relationships he nurtured and the joy he brought to those around him.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday July 3, 2025 11:00am, at the Sun City Center Funeral Home.

Memorial donations in his honor may be made to the Sun City Center Emergency Squad , 720 Ray Watson Dr, Sun City Center, FL 33573.