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William Watts Biggers
William Watts Biggers
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William Biggers Obituary
Family friend Derek Tague says Biggers, who went by "Buck," died unexpectedly at his Plymouth, Mass., home on Sunday.
The native of Avondale Estates, Ga., worked for the New York City advertising firm DFS when he accepted an assignment from the agency's largest client, General Mills, to create television cartoons to promote its breakfast cereals. The most famous was "Underdog," which debuted on NBC in 1964.
The canine superhero, voiced by comic actor Wally Cox, also battled villains including mad scientist Simon Bar Sinister, and a gangster wolf Riff Raff.
Upon hearing the cries of Sweet Polly Purebred, Underdog would rush into a telephone booth and transform into the hero.
He spoke in simple rhymes, his most fam ous probably "There's no need to fear, Underdog is here."
Biggers also helped create "King Leonardo and His Short Subjects" and "Tennessee Tuxedo and His Tales."
After General Mills pulled out of the animation business, Biggers became vice president of promotion and creative services at NBC.
The family said Biggers "delighted in the enduring appeal of his 'Underdog' franchise," including the balloon that appeared in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the 2007 live-action film.
Biggers also wrote for publications including TV Guide, Family Circle and Reader's Digest, and wrote several novels, including "The Man Inside" and "Hold Back the Tide."
Biggers' wife of 39 years, Grace, died in 1989. He is survived by his daughter, Victoria Biggers, his son, W. Watts Biggers, Jr., and longtime companion Nancy Purbeck.
Funeral arrangements will be private. A memorial service is planned for a later date.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
110 Entries
Janet Foglia
November 21, 2014
Watts and Vicky, I just saw this and am so sorry for your loss. We rented a house next door to your one summer in Cape Cod. Janet Foglia (NY)
March 25, 2013
I am thankful for the simple lessons on good and bad, right and wrong, respect for authority that those characters taught that seems to be lost in todays entertainment. I hope that you as a family continue in "the peace of God that excels all thought".(Philippians 4:7)
steele
March 13, 2013
May our Creator who watches over us grant the family and friends the peace and comfort you need to get through these difficult times. May Mr. Biggers rest in peace.
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Marrianne Woodell
March 5, 2013
Vicky and Watts, I am so sorry for your loss.
Marrianne Procopio (Forestdale MA)
Beth Hamblin
March 3, 2013
Watts and Vicky, so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. My thoughts are with you both.
Suzanne
February 26, 2013
When you think of it, we are all "underdogs"! All of us are disadvantaged because we all get sick and eventually die! Mr. Biggers was a wonderful cartoonist who also was a wonderful man. Our Creator wants us to have a perfect, happy, unending life and He has made provision to do just that. And he informs us of His loving intentions in such verses as this one: "and he will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more. Neither will mourning, nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." Then, there will be no more "underdogs"!
M Scott
February 25, 2013
May You And Your Family Find Comfort During This Time of Sorrow Loved Sweet Polly And Underdog Great Cartoon. Psalm 68:20
Lisa Weiner
February 22, 2013
To William Watts,
You did a great job creating my favorite cartoon Character Underdog. I just want to say Good Job well Done! My prayers are with your family. Lisa Weiner
Chip Hamlen
February 22, 2013
Watts and Vicky, thinking of both of you in this difficult time. Your dad brought a lot of happiness to the world
Kathy Grant Leonard
February 22, 2013
The world has lost a kind and gentle man. I will always have such wonderful memories of spending time with Watts and Nancy, singing, laughing and listening to Roy Orborson.
February 21, 2013
As the bible says at Luke 43:23 we will see Willam in papadise
Kat and Dud Purbeck
February 20, 2013
We just saw Watts in October and he was so happy and he played a song for us and He told us a story about how he used to play music on top of cars at the Varsity. I felt like he had lots of stories to tell and I'm sad that I didn't get to hear more of them. Rest easy Watts.
February 20, 2013
Dear Family God bless Mr Biggers for the joy that was placed in our lives with his talent. I pray that he's resting in The Lord
Joel Greene
February 19, 2013
Watts Biggers was the most elegant man I have ever known. He brought no harm to this world and left it better off. No one ever feared him...in business...in love or life. His intellect, coupled with great humility, was boundless. His kindness evolved ....aided greatly by Nancy. His hopes remain through Watts Jr and Victoria...whom he adored. I am so sorry that I was not at his funeral...had I known ...I would have travelled instantly. This weekend I will somehow find a copy of Roy Orbison's Tribute...and toast my friend.
February 19, 2013
Underdog was one of my favorite cartoons as a child. Thank you so much and may God bless you.
Andrea, James and Kevin Condon
February 19, 2013
We will miss Watts very much. He was thoughtful, loving and such a great inspiration to me, my family and all those Underdog (and Tennessee Tuxedo) fans in the world. We're grateful for the time we had with him.
Dede Parisi
February 18, 2013
Buck thank you for sharing your creativity with the world!! Because of you, many movies have been created based on your Underdog creation!! You will truly be missed
February 18, 2013
Watts, Vicky & Nancy, We are so sorry for your loss,please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. He was a wonderful man,and he will always be remembered.
Bob & Renee Gregory
Kim Batte
February 18, 2013
So about your lost. Hope you find comfort in the days to come
Barb
February 18, 2013
With deepest sympathy to family and friends and may you draw comfort from Gods inspired word the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16).
M Wells
February 18, 2013
Thank you for bringing to life one of my favorite childhood hero's"
February 17, 2013
RIP Mr.Biggers,loved the underdog show.
February 17, 2013
Dear Nancy,
Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Cookie, Laura, Robert and Susan Gregory
Susan Gregory Eaton
February 17, 2013
Wattsie and Vicky, my deepest sympathy to both of you. Your Father was a wonderful person and meant a lot to me. Most of my Cape Cod childhood thoughts are beautiful memories of your Mother and Father. The times I spent with your parents are moments I will treasure forever.
Nancy, please accept my deepest sympathy on your loss.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Thinking of you,
February 17, 2013
Wattsy and Vicky,
Please accept our sincerest condolences on the loss of your father. We have many, many fond memories of our summers on the Cape and your family contributed to a lot of them. We hope you know how much we thought of your Mom and Dad
Cookie, Laura, Robert and Susan Gregory
Linda
February 17, 2013
I remember underdog Mr. Biggers will be missed.
May God's gentle peace fill your heart and comfort your soul today and
in the days to come, I am so very sorry for your loss. As you cherish
fond memories also know that God is with you and will provide peace
and hope in the days ahead
February 17, 2013
I am sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of grief. God cares for you and will help you during your time of need. ( Psalms 121:2)
February 17, 2013
Drizzle, drazzle, druzzle, drone--time for this one to come home. Many thanks, and sincere sympathy.
February 17, 2013
Romans 15:33
ruthanne jenkins
February 17, 2013
I love his Under Dog. The new movie is good also. I grew up watching UD
Delbert "Dellie Goose" Hutchinson
February 17, 2013
Me,My Mom And Dad Had Used To Watch Underdog As A Toddler In The 1960's
Jim Harriman
February 17, 2013
My condolences go out to the family. I loved Underdog as a kid. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Biggers last Fall at Battles Buick GMC, where he was a customer. He seemed like a very nice guy, and he will be missed. God Bless and sympathy to his family from the crew at Battles.
Stacey, jeffrey, Cameron, adison, and Samuel Turgeon
February 17, 2013
We are sitting here on cape cod in your home ~watching the waves crash against the shore remembering you. You are missed by all so much already. The boys loved you so much. Thank you for always beings so loving to our children and to us. Thank you for the gift of piano lessons and the love of music and poetry. Our family was blessed to have you. Xoxox
Mark Clark
February 17, 2013
Buck Biggers was partially responsible for Under Dog and King Leonardo - what a fabulous legacy.
Thank you for your brilliant work, Mr. Biggers, and three cheers from Bongo Congo!
February 17, 2013
Sincere condolences on the loss of someone who provided such delightful, funny and excellent entertainment to so many. Wish today,s children particularly had a hero Underdog like I happily did for many years .
Ray stiefvater
February 17, 2013
As children, we hardly ever care about the creators of Saturday morning cartoon shows. It's only when we are older that we pay attention to such matters. Mr. Biggers was a real talent. He will be missed by friend and family alike as well as his many fans.
JODIE THRASHER
February 17, 2013
We were classmates at North Georgia College in the 1940's. He always seemed to live life to the fullest. A wonderful person to have known.
Jimmy n Diana Jackson
February 17, 2013
We will miss you.Thank you for making us laugh( there is no need to fear,underdog is here).
May God be with your family n may you rest in peace.We love you....
February 17, 2013
The thing that I always loved about these cartoons is that there was so much humor for adults in them that was totally lost on us as children. Watching them again after we were older was like getting brand new shows all over again!
Bruce Johnson
February 17, 2013
one of my favorites of all time,i can not thank you enough,there should be a classic cartoon network to show these old cartoons,on a scale from 1 to 10 this cartoon was a 10, underdog will never die,this is not a time to be sad,this is a celebration of a great man who put alot of joy in kids lives,may god bless your family
kay collins
February 16, 2013
i was a fan of underdog. i remenber the show as if it was on yestraday. my condolence to his friends and family.
labanacheck lowery
February 16, 2013
i loved & was a fan of underdog & dr barsinister and its sad that mr Biggers isnt around but may he rest in peace
February 16, 2013
In heaven they are saying " there's no need to fear, Underdog is hear". RIP Mr Biggers and God bless to your family.
Natasha Philemon
February 16, 2013
I did not know him as a friend, but I loved watching Underdog when I was little. May he rest in peace and we will see him again.
Lisa Weiner
February 16, 2013
To William Biggers,
You did a great job creating my favorite cartoon character Underdog. I give you a two thumbs up for a good job well done. My prayers go to your family. Lisa Weiner
February 16, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. I never knew Mr. Bigger personally, but I certainly knew him as Under Dog. That was one of my favorite cartoons as a child. I know he will be missed, but God will bring comfort and peace to his family and friends during this most difficult time. Romans 15:33
February 16, 2013
Growing up I always made it a point to watch Underdog it was the best! Thankyou Mr. Biggers for those childhood memories may God bless you! Steve Lazo Southbridge MA.
February 16, 2013
I have always loved Underdog and I never knew it was William Watts Biggers had helped in creating him. I love that movie. I hope that William Watts Biggers had a life well lived because he created one of the most popular movies that children today still loves.
Elizabeth Simons
February 16, 2013
Thank you for the fabulous childhood memories. I shall cherish them always. May you rest in peace.
Sal Venturelli
February 16, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Nancy and the Biggers family. I collaborated with Nancy a few years back on BNN TV with the Positive People project, which I enjoyed very much. Thanks to Buck and Nancy for bringing a ray of light into the world.
Ron Altman
February 16, 2013
As a TV Broadcast technician in the 60s and 70s, I worked at an NBC affiliate. Always looked forward to my Saturday morning shifts and the many laughs from "Underdog" and his friends. Thank you for bringing much joy into the world - for children of all ages! RIP
Harris
February 16, 2013
What a privilege for Mr. Bigger to share his creativity with millions of viewers and consumers. My deepest condolences to to the family, friends and fans of Mr. Bigger. Please know that the God of all comfort is with you and will help you to endure the temporary loss of Mr. Bigger. (Romans 15:5)
Cheryl Hulslander
February 16, 2013
So very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. We had the pleasure to meet Buck and Nancy last summer and so enjoyed their company. Even got to hear Buck play the piano...such a talented man! RIP
February 16, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. Soon there will be a time when death is no more. (Revalation 21:4)
D Hardison
February 16, 2013
My condolences to the family of William. I know he will be missed, but God will bring comfort and peace in the difficult days to come for your family. Romans 15:33
Donna Whitcomb
February 16, 2013
Thank you Mr. Biggers, for adding more joy to my already joyful childhood. Now, you are creating your cartoons for all the little children in heaven.
scott reynolds
February 16, 2013
i still quote underdog all the time,," here i come to save the day!!!"" it was always something me and my children use to have to fun with. the 1st time i said it they had no clue what i was refering to so i had to find some old cartoons and introduce them to greatest cartoons ever made, thanks for all the great memories, you will be missed!!!!
B Lucas
February 16, 2013
My sincere condolence for the loss of William your dear loved one. May your fond memories of him bring back good thoughts. Peace and love to your family and friends, and to the spirit that you show. [email protected]
February 16, 2013
Times like these bring such sadness to so many, especially the family & close friends who have lost their dear loved one, Mr. Biggers. I hope the words found in God's word bring you comfort as you read his promise of a life without death. His memory will live on in the many hearts & lives he touched!
February 16, 2013
God Bless....Thanks for childhood memories
Steve
February 16, 2013
RIP ....Underdog,I enjoyed watching U in the 60....
Thanks for the Memorys.
Jeremy~
February 16, 2013
It is reassuring to know the God of comfort will be with the family during these times.
1 Corinthains 1:3-5
February 16, 2013
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Leslie Baldwin
February 16, 2013
Underdog and friends fired the imagination of many children on Saturday mornings. They are a part of of childhood memories for millions.
Margaret
February 16, 2013
I send my condolences to the family of Mr.William Watts Biggers, I love the cartoon Underdog, I can remember every monring in 1 st grade watching it faithfully in the earilies 70's.- May the God who gives peace be with all of YOU. Amen.- Roman 15:33
Mycena B Dickerson
February 16, 2013
I just loved Underdog ! His mild manner and his desire to always rescue the love of his life Sweet Polly Purebred are things our youth can learn today. May your family find comfort in Mr.Bigger thousands of friends and 2Peter 3:13.
February 16, 2013
Victoria,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family in the loss of your father Mr Biggers. May you find peace from God during this difficult time. Rm. 15:33
FREDDIE KING
February 16, 2013
I NEVER KNEW WHO WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING ONE OF MY FAVORITE CHILDHOOD CARTOON CHARACTERS. THANK YOU VERY MUCH MR. BIGGERS FOR MY ALL TIME FAVORITE THE UNDERDOG SHOWWWWWWWW!!!!!!!
Muffy
February 16, 2013
I liked "Underdog." I loved "Tennessee Tuxedo." I remember watching both with my dad on our B&W TV, while my mom mad Sunday dinner. Now, like so many of my childhood companions, the creator is now gone and a small part of me goes with him. Happily, the characters and work still lives on.
My condolences to Mr. Biggers' children, companion, other family and friends. I hope you can take some comfort in knowing the happiness Mr. Biggers brought to both children and their parents.
michelle plakas-kaiser
February 16, 2013
rip
February 16, 2013
theres no need to fear anymore
Rick Bustamante
February 15, 2013
Thank you for brightening my life sir! RIP..
Victoria Biggers
February 15, 2013
thanks for all the nice comments about "Underdog". I'm Buck's daughter and he would be so proud!
Gail Siegel
February 15, 2013
I feel like another part of my childhood has died.
Thank you, Mr Biggers, for Underdog, Tennessee Tuxedo and King Leonardo. I can remember watching them on the black & white tv in my bedroom.
Rest In Peace, Mr. Biggers.
February 15, 2013
Watched Underdog all the time
Frank Poolas
February 15, 2013
RIP Underdog. Thanks so much for the memories.Sweet Polly was my gal.
Lisa Weiner
February 15, 2013
To William Biggers,
You did a wondeful job creating my favorite cartoon Underdog. My prayers are with your family. Lisa Weiner
A Fan
February 15, 2013
Thank you Mr. Biggers. . . I loved Tennessee Tuxedo and Underdog. Only those of us who grew up in that era know the joy of those wonderful cartoon episodes. My heartfelt sympathy to your family. Your passing is a huge loss.
Dennis Rayburn
February 15, 2013
Underdog was one of my favorites when I was a kid, along with Tennessee Tuxedo. My thoughts and prayers to his family at this very sad time.
LMT
February 15, 2013
I LOVED UNDERDOG. WHEREVER I WAS IN THE HOUSE AND I HEARD IT ON T.V MOM SAID I'D COME IN AND SIT DOWN IN FRONT OF THE T.V. TO WATCH MY SHOW! THANKS, REST IN PEACE
February 15, 2013
RIP,I love the underdog cartoon.
Sue S. Maryland
Phil Hurray
February 15, 2013
One of the best! Thanks for the memories, Buck!
Linda K
February 15, 2013
I loved Underdog it was the best cartoon when I was a child and also Tennessee Tuxedo they will be remembered as funny and warmhearted cartoons from our generation. Sorry for your loss.
Anida Murray
February 15, 2013
I am 65 and my BFF of over 50 years and I still quote some of our favorite lines. Thank you Mr. Biggers for enriching our childhoood. Condolences to your family and friends.
Luis Garcia
February 15, 2013
Thank you, Mr Williams! Underdog was my favourite cartoon for many years. It was the 1st cartoon I watched, it was played here in Mexico as well.
dave
February 15, 2013
Thank you for many many hours of fun when i was a kid! R I P, Sir.
ROBERT TOM
February 15, 2013
I ENJOY WATCHING THE CARTOONS HE MADE AND STILL NOW ENJOY WATCHING NOW. WE WILL MISS HIM.
Rita K
February 15, 2013
Thank you for bringing Beagles and dogs to light on TV every week -- was 1 of 2 cartoons I only watched. UnderDog will live on and many have you to Thanks for the enjoyment & knowledge. Eternal Peace.
Jan
February 15, 2013
What he created was REAL cartoons. Not what we see today on TV. Thank You, Buck!
Becky & David Pate
February 15, 2013
My sympathy to family and friends. Sadness in my heart for someone who brought me joy through his work. Thank you William. Never fear, you will not be forgotten.
February 15, 2013
I never knew who created Underdog and Tennessee Tuxedo but I loved that cartoon series. I can qoute the Underdog theme song to this day. Thank you for fond memories. You will be missed.
Sandie Webb
February 15, 2013
thanks for the laughs
Jeff Holt
February 15, 2013
I grew up with "Underdog" and was just the other day telling my wife who isn't from this country how wonderful cartoons were when I grew up.
Thanks to Mr. Biggers for his imaginaton that made my childhood enjoyable as I watched the cartoons.
February 15, 2013
Buck Biggers was one of a kind. Magilla Gorilla was one of my absolute favorites. May his cartoons live on for a generation.
Mildred (Miltie) Haney
Carps Falls, AR
February 15, 2013
Thank you Mr. Biggers for fond memories of Underdog and Tennessee Tuxedo; both were near and dear to me. May God take you in the mercy of His hands; I pray your loved ones gain strength knowing how loved you are by young and not-so-young.
Blessings,
Maggie Van Horbek
G. Freeman
February 15, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
February 15, 2013
"There's no need to fear Underdog is here!" I loved that cartoon, still see the little guy with his cape. What an original, thank you for the humor. Rest in peace. Condolences to the family. Baltimore, MD
jim fisher
February 15, 2013
to family iam sorry for your lost
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