William “Bill” Daughtry
June 29th, 1954 – February 14th, 2025
With great sorrow, the family of William “Bill” Daughtry announces his passing on February 14, 2025, in Auburndale, Florida. Born on June 29, 1954, in Lakeland, Florida, Bill was a cherished husband, father, brother, uncle, and papa. He lived a life marked by kindness, humor, and honesty, traits that endeared him to all who knew him.
Bill dedicated many years of his life to his career as a plumber, a profession in which he took great pride and found much satisfaction. Whether working on small leaks or resolving complex plumbing issues, Bill approached each day with diligence and integrity, forming lasting bonds with his employees and clients alike.
A man of the outdoors, Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, and any activity that allowed him to appreciate nature’s beauty. He had a profound love for vintage cars and could often be found working in his garden or preparing a barbecue feast for family and friends. His culinary skills were rivaled only by his eagerness to embark on new travel adventures.
Bill was predeceased by his parents, William Daughtry Sr. and Imogen, and his sister, Dee Collins, whose memories he treasured dearly.
Bill’s family was his greatest joy, and his legacy lives on in those he leaves behind. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 44 years, Gayle; and a proud father to his son, Matt (Lauren) and daughter Abby; his sisters, Patty (Rodger) Harrison, Jeanie (Mike) Rousch, and niece-sister Teresa (Ray) Baumbach; his granddaughters, Emaleigh, Paige, Kinley, Sunny, and River, who will forever cherish time spent with their adoring papa; numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Family and friends celebrated Bill’s life on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM. Rather than flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his name to the Moffitt Cancer Center or St. Jude’s, organizations that held significant meaning to Bill and those he loved.
Though he has departed this world, Bill’s impact and legacy will be felt for generations. His kindness, warm laughter, and genuine honesty are lasting imprints on all who were fortunate to know him.
