William Joseph Choate

William ("Bill") Joseph Choate, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, leader, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 19th, 2025 at the age of 67 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on February 26, 1958, in Inglewood, California, Bill's childhood took him through Texas, Missouri, and across Tennessee. He was a proud graduate of Christian Brothers University, later following a calling to ministry that led him to earn a Master of Divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Doctorate from Drew University.

Bill dedicated his life to investing in the next generation. For over 40 years, he was a pillar of Baptist collegiate ministry in Tennessee, serving as Associate Campus Minister at UT-Knoxville (1984-1989), Campus Minister at Vanderbilt University (1989-1999), and finally as the Director of Collegiate Ministries for the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board (1999-2025).

Beyond his professional contributions, Bill was a rock of his community and family. He believed that no distance was too far for a family dinner or a visit with friends, and he showed up—consistently and wholeheartedly. Bill gave his time freely, whether repairing a house, tuning up a car, or simply listening when a friend or colleague needed guidance. He took great pride in supporting the dreams of those he loved, offering encouragement, wisdom, and unwavering belief and support. A tireless worker and an inspirational role model, Bill had a rare gift for bringing out the best in others, leaving everyone around him stronger, more confident, and deeply cared for.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Dorothy Choate. He leaves behind a rich legacy through his wife, Jennifer; his children and grandchildren, Hannah Choate (Austin Carr), Molly Gaines (Ryan), Ben Wishart (Hannah), Meg Wishart, Alice Carr, Luke Carr and Thomas Gaines; and his sisters, Leslee O'Kelly, Kelley Aur (Didier), and Carole Blankenship (Jeff). He is also survived by his loving nephews and niece.

In his final days, Bill was cared for with dignity and grace by the team at Alive Hospice, for which the family is deeply grateful.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Tennessee Baptist Collegiate Ministries.

Bill's family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, at Brentwood Baptist Church, followed by a brief ceremony in the Baskin Chapel for close friends and family.