Joseph Francis Bill Jr.

Joseph (Joe) Francis Bill Jr. passed away peacefully with family by his side on April 7th, 2023 in Gilbert, AZ at the age of 73.   Joe was born in Pittsburgh, PA on May 21st, 1949, the third of four children, to Joseph and Mary Bill.  He attended St. Lawrence O’Toole grade school and Arsenal and Washington Vocational Technical High School, graduating class of 1967.  Upon graduating high school, he enlisted in the Air Force where he served as a master electrician and aircraft maintenance supervisor. His military decorations include Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster,  Air Force Commendation Medal with 2 oak leaf clusters, Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnam Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Republic of Vietnam  Medal, and Cold War Medal. During his career in the military, he also earned a Bachelor of General Studies degree from the University of Nebraska Omaha.  He honorably served for 26 years where he retired as a Senior Master Sergeant and settled in Summerville, SC. 

After retiring from the Air Force, he joined the Charleston Sheriff’s Office and served 14 years as a Detention Officer. Upon retiring from the Sheriff’s Office, Joe worked at the City Electric Supply Summerville branch for 11 years. He officially retired and relocated to Gilbert, AZ in 2019 to be near his sons. He enjoyed spending time with his family and many friends, golfing, riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, collecting coins, and traveling.  He volunteered to help those less fortunate and was always ready to lend a hand.  His good spirit, sense of humor, and love was felt by all and will be missed but never forgotten.   

He is preceded in death by his father Joseph, mother Mary, sisters Lorraine and Marsha (Mark).  He is survived by his brother Larry (Carol), children Christopher (Kaitlin), Andrew, and nieces Cindy, Bethany (Ryan) and nephew Matthew.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Charleston SC Habitat for Humanity.