William "Bill" Russell

Carkhuff

William "Bill" Carkhuff, of Marietta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side, following complications from Parkinson's disease. He will be deeply missed for the love he shared, the laughter he brought, and countless memories which remain in the hearts of those who loved him. 

Bill was born on August 15, 1947, in Rahway, New Jersey, to Waldo and Marie Carkhuff. He is survived by his wife, Lois Ann, and their sons: William James "B.J. " Carkhuff; Philip Carkhuff (Jesse); and Jonathan Carkhuff (Madison). He was a proud grandfather to eight wonderful grandchildren who gave him tremendous joy. He is also survived by his brother, Waldo Carkhuff (Ginny), nieces Cherilyn and Bethany (Michael); and his sister, Vivian Switzer (Ken), niece Kimberly (Jim) and their son Christopher.

Bill spent his early years in Rahway, New Jersey participating in varsity sports throughout his high school years. After graduating in 1965 he was awarded a football scholarship at Maryville College and later at the University of Chattanooga.  He taught biology and English literature at Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga, and served as a coach for their football, wrestling and tennis teams. Bill then began his pharmaceutical career at Sandoz/Novartis which spanned over 26 years. During his tenure in the industry he directed the national sales operations for the Transplantation and Tissue Engineering divisions, collaborating with major university hospitals throughout the country. After retiring he was instrumental in establishing a nationwide sales operation for Faro Pharmaceuticals and staffing and developing an emerging healthcare company, Reliant Pharmaceuticals. He earned great respect and recognition as a senior-level management professional, accomplished team builder, and engaging public speaker. 

His leadership, in commitment to purpose, and ability to inspire others extended beyond his professional career. Bill was a devoted husband to the love of his life, Lois Ann, for 43 years and a dedicated father to their three sons. He was a guiding influence in his family, and shaped the lives of those around him through his strength, integrity and perseverance.

He was actively involved with Georgia Special Olympics and helped expand the reach of the Kids & Pros organization, mentoring young athletes in life skills through sports. Following retirement, he continued his community involvement through the Atlanta Area Officials Association and the Marietta Umpires Association. In his free time, Bill could be found meticulously tending to his yard and cheering on his beloved Green Bay Packers.

Bill was deeply devoted to God and His Church, dedicating his talent to various parish ministries over the course of several decades. He will be remembered for living out his Catholic faith in his unwavering commitment to helping others and the many lives he touched through his friendship, mentorship, and service to the community. His legacy will live on in the family he cherished and the countless people who were fortunate to know him. 

A Mass of the Resurrection celebrating Bill's life will be held on Monday, November 23, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church in Roswell, Georgia. In lieu of flowers, to honor his memory donations may be made to Michael J. Fox The Parkinson's Foundation. All Grit. No Quit.