We are devastated by the loss of our beloved, devoted husband and father. A solitary man with a heart driven to connect to the world at large, with his poetry and music, he spoke honestly to people and connected them to each other. As private a life as he lived close to intimate family and friends, his music forever belongs to the world. In this difficult time, we pray his music offers comfort and entertainment as fans hold tight to loved ones. We know his legacy will live in our hearts and in yours for generations to come.
We will miss his sharp wit, playful sense of humor, and no-nonsense way of turning a phrase as no one else could. He was a deeply proud man, full of integrity and principle, and we as his family are immensely proud of him for sharing his musical and lyrical gifts so elegantly and generously with the world. A master of writing love songs, he loved music, cherished and protected his family, and our love for him is immeasurable.
With Love,
The Withers Family
It has been said that Bill was one of the most influential and prolific singer-songwriters of the last century and that his soulful voice, beautiful melodies and masterful lyrics have made an indelible mark on millions of hearts.
Born July 4, 1938, in Slab Fork, West Virginia (population 202), the youngest of six (living) children, Bill experienced severe stutter and was known for his inspiring candor about his stuttering journey, his down-to-earth wisdom, his sense of humor, and his unwavering support of SAY and the SAY kids.
If you’d like to honor him, please consider a donation to the charities he supported, The Stuttering Association for the Young, https://www.say.org, and Food on Foot, https://www.foodonfoot.org.
We hope Bill’s classic song, ‘Lean on Me’ continues to bring you comfort and joy.
