William "Bill" Dale John

William “Bill” Dale John, of Lakeland Fl. passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026, at his home in Pickens County, South Carolina, surrounded by his family at the age of 76. Born in Morgantown, West Virginia, on June 18, 1949, Bill’s roots ran deep in the Mountain State. He was a proud graduate of West Virginia University, earning his degree as a member of the Class of 1971. During his time at WVU, Bill forged lifelong friendships as a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Bill was an avid and unwavering West Virginia Mountaineer fan. Saturdays in the fall were often centered around Mountaineer football, and his enthusiastic support for the Old Gold and Blue never faded. Throughout his life, Bill was known for his integrity, leadership, and commitment to service—values he embraced from a young age and carried with him always. A lifelong Scouter, Bill achieved the rank of Eagle Scout on February 8, 1963, an accomplishment that remained a point of great pride throughout his life. His dedication to Scouting did not end in his youth; rather, it became a cornerstone of his adult life and service to others. Bill proudly watched as his sons Chris and Scott and grandson David joined the Eagle Scout Ranks. Bill continued his Scouting journey by serving as a Cubmaster of Pack 710 and then Scoutmaster of Troop 106 in Lakeland, Florida, where he mentored countless young men, guiding them with patience, wisdom, and a steady moral compass. He believed deeply in the mission of Scouting to build character, responsibility, and leadership. Demonstrating his commitment to excellence in that mission, Bill completed Wood Badge training, further reflecting his devotion to personal growth and service to others. Professionally, Bill worked as an Industrial Engineer Supervisor with GTE, and a Stock Clerk for Publix Supermarkets where he was respected for his strong work ethic and thoughtful approach. Above all, Bill treasured time spent with his family and friends, whether gathered for holidays, sharing stories, or cheering on the Mountaineers together. He is survived by his wife, Jane John; his children: Scott John and wife Allie John, Chris John and wife Crystal John, and Michael Cochran; and his grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Karlee, David, Jamison John and Scarlett Carpenter. All will remember him as a steady presence, a trusted guide, and a source of unconditional love. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Jane John. At Bill’s request, there will be a private family service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Make-A-Wish Central Florida in Bill’s memory, honoring a life devoted to service, leadership, and community.

William "Bill" Dale John

June 18, 1949 - January 31, 2026