Bill Southern

William "Bill" Southern, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, ran to the sweet arms of Jesus on November 9, 2025, at the age of 80. He was born on March 2, 1945, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to his parents, the late Guy Wickliff Southern, Jr. and Rose Adelheide (Aucoin) Southern.

Bill was a dedicated member of The Hills Church, Our Father's Children, Open Arms Homes, Community Enrichment Center, the Alzheimer's Association of Fort Worth, Optimist International, FWISD Growth Center Project, American Heart Association, Religion Communicators Council, NAIFA-Fort Worth, NAIFA-Texas, and numerous other organizations throughout his distinguished careers.

Beyond his professional and volunteer work, Bill was perhaps best known to many as “Wild Bill,” a beloved DJ for over 30 years. With his infectious energy, quick wit, and natural ability to bring people together, he made weddings, parties, and community events come alive with joy. His signature enthusiasm and big-hearted presence lit up every dance floor he touched, creating countless cherished memories for friends, families, and neighbors across the years.

He was a past board member of the American Heart Association, Past President of the Executive Board of Open Arms Home, Inc., Past President of his local chapter of Optimist International, Past Diplomat of the Northeast Tarrant Chamber of Commerce, and a dedicated volunteer of the Community Enrichment Center for over 37 years. Bill was known for his compassionate and generous spirit-always finding ways to serve and uplift those around him.

Bill graduated from Kermit High School and continued his education at Abilene Christian University in 1963, where he was active in student body societies such as the a cappella chorus and student senate. He later pursued further education at the University of Colorado - Denver Campus and the American College of Financial Services in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, where he studied Insurance and Investments from 1980-1983.

His family brought him immense joy, and he cherished every moment spent with his loving wife of 37 years, Sweet Linda Southern, along with his children: Kristen Southern, Tara Southern, Chad Southern (Kimberlee), and Wesley Simpson (Leah Eastman).

Bill's legacy is carried on by his 16 grandchildren: Nicholas Keating (Sunshine), Zachary Keating (Miranda), Joshua Keating, Hannah Penler, Lauren Gishie (Draven), Andrew Hussey, Addison Hussey, Jacob Johnson (Rhode), Kierstin Carlson (Jeremy), Zoey Parks and Marleigh Parsons; and by his 6 great-grandchildren: Sadie, Joey, Olivia, Rowan, Adrian, and Bryson. He is also survived by his siblings: Jeanette Inmon (Ron), Vonnie Perry (David), Gary Southern (Patti), and David Southern, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of dear friends and colleagues.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sweet Linda Southern, his parents, Guy and Rose Southern, his brother-in-law, Don Carroll, and several aunts and uncles.

A Celebration of Life honoring Bill will be held at The Hills Church, North Richland Hills Campus (6300 NE Loop 820, North Richland Hills, Texas 76180) on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. The community he so lovingly served is invited to join in celebrating his life and offering their final goodbyes. Bill's legacy of kindness, service, and devotion will forever be remembered by all whose lives he touched.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who provided loving and tender care to Wild Bill.

In lieu of flowers, Bill asked that donations be made in his name to Our Father's Children or the Community Enrichment Center.