Willie “Bill” Souders

Spring Grove Funeral Home is assisting the Family

Obituary via Spring Grove Funeral Home

Willie “Bill” Souders of Byrdstown, TN, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, January 15, at the age of 99. He was born on December 19, 1926, to John and Mauda Sowders in Crossville, Tennessee. He grew up in the hills of Pall Mall, where he hunted and worked the family land, before following his older siblings to Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1945, Willie was inducted into the Army and served in World War II.

Family always came first for Willie and his loving wife of 63 years, the late Norma Jean Souders (née Turner), as they raised their 10 children together while Willie worked tirelessly as the Director of Maintenance for Beech Acres and ran his own business, Souders Painting.

Willie and Norma later retired to Dale Hollow Lake, where he spent his days doing what he loved most: fishing, walking his beloved dog, and spending time with family and friends. If he wasn’t on the boat, you could find him playing poker or sitting in his rocking chair outside, talking to anyone who walked by. He was a great man with an enormous heart, always willing to help others. He will be remembered as a patient, loving, and understanding man to all who knew him.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mauda; brothers Mack, Travis, Noble, and Lonzie Souders; sisters Flora Foust and Martha McFarland; sons John and Robert Souders; and daughter Mary Eide.

He leaves behind his older sister, Floy Davis; his children, Katie (Larry) Pack, Michael Souders, Kay (Chuck) Valentine, Randy Collins, Bill (Laura) Souders, Greg Souders, and Aaron (Mireya) Souders; nearly 100 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; his beloved dog, Digger; and many friends and extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society. Willie was a great man! Anyone knew him knew he was full of life! He touched each of us in a very special way. His big heart, funny jokes or comebacks made you feel A part of his life! He loved to fish and if he couldn’t he would look at the lake or watch it on tv! Willie dedicated his life to serving people and being the servant of God! If he told you anything was to be patient , love and understanding. This is what made his life so long. He left us behind to appreciate life and never give up hope! He leaves behind children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and lost of friends!