William "Bill" Stevenson

William "Bill" Stevenson, 66, of Yulee went home on July 11th. He is welcomed home by his mother Barbara "Baboo", his father James "Big Jim", his brother Edgar "Buzz", and his wife MaryAnne.

He leaves behind his children Katie and Brandon, their spouses Jamie and Marlee, and four beautiful grandchildren: Abbygail, Addison, Hunter, and Carson.

 His time on earth was well spent in the Navy, as a lineman, and as a bright beacon of humanity and understanding. 

Bill was a Navy veteran of the Vietnam War where he ushered jets onto and off of aircraft carriers. His love of jets and planes never went away. You could see him listen to the sky and at any given time tell you exactly what kind of engine just flew overhead, usually with a twinkle in his eye.

After leaving the Navy he became a lineman in Fernandina Beach for more than 20 years. He was lovingly known as "The Cable Guy" and left an indelible mark on many of the residents, most of whom he called friends. In almost any storm you could find him on a pole dodging lightning keeping the lines of communication open and helping to keep families safe in scary times. He wasn't the best at dodging it would seem, being struck by lightning several times throughout his life. 

Bill was always happiest behind his grill making food for family and friends and strangers. Every recipe he found was bound to be an exciting experiment in flavors and loved ones jockeyed for the position to be the first to taste!

He retired from AT&T but it only lasted a few months. "There's only so much fishin' a man can do." He gave it the ol college try, though.

He took a job with Walmart in Fernandina to stay busy, and stayed for more than 20 years; becoming a staple in many people's daily lives. Whether they worked with him or shopped with him they knew his smiling face. He always had a word of encouragement for people in need. He retired from Walmart after his wife of 39 years lost her battle with leukemia only to begin a battle of his own. He fought hard and had a brave face for everyone.

His love of family, food, music, and life will be remembered forever. He was a special person to know and be loved by, and he will be very sorely missed by all.