Bill J. Sopp

Our beloved William “Bill” J. Sopp completed his trip to heaven on June 27th, 2024, at the age of 78. Bill passed peacefully and surrounded by loved ones.

Bill was a fiercely generous, hardworking, and devoted man who could never bring himself to say an ill word about anyone. Growing up in Pittsburgh, PA, he became the man of the house at age 13, with three younger siblings and his mother “Tillie”. While learning the sign business from his uncle, he became the ultimate Jack-of-all-trades. Anyone lucky enough to know him adopted the phrase: “When the going gets tough — The Tough Call Bill.”

Bill started his career in New York City as a airplane mechanic with Delta Airlines. In 1972, he was promoted to Maintenance Coordinator at the corporate headquarters in Atlanta. During his prestigious 34 year career with Delta, Bill was lauded for his unwavering dedication and work ethic.

In Atlanta, Bill built a beautiful home with the help of his brother, Neil. He was later introduced to his “Love Dove” Betty Taylor on a blind date in 1983. Both Bill and Betty had young sons from their first marriage, and combined the two families on their wedding day in 1984. Bill and Betty were married for 40 years and embodied the meaning of true love. Bill’s favorite pastimes were taking a boat ride on Lake Sinclair with his family and friends, and catching fish with his grandkids.

Bill is survived by his wife, Betty Sopp, his brother, Neil Sopp and sister, Evelyn Loughran; his sons: Brian Sopp, Jimmy Prance, and Steven Prance. Along with his 7 grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his Mother, Tillie Valley Sopp, brother Philip Sopp, and niece Gina Sopp.

Visitation will be held at 2pm, with a memorial service to follow at 3pm on Saturday, July 20th at Milledgeville First Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations are sent to the Alzheimer’s Association or Milledgeville First Methodist Church.

Express online condolences at www.williamsfuneralhome.net Williams Funeral Home & Crematory of Milledgeville in charge of arrangements.

This is a courtesy announcement from May and Smith Funeral Directors.