Bill Close

My parents moved to "the Valley" in 1953. Shortly after that, my Dad purchased our first TV. We settled on Bill Close as our news anchor of choice. I loved his wonderful, mellifluous voice, his honest, straightforward approach to the news and his open warmth to everyone. In this time of my life, in my '70's, I have an even greater appreciation of Bill Close and the kind of man he was. It was clear that the man you saw in front of the camera was the same behind the camera. My comment is years...

I just read about Bill's passing on the Life in legacy website. My prayers go out to his family. I remember watching him every night when I lived in Scottsdale. He and his bola ties will not be forgotten. Truly a gentleman.....

To Bill's family and colleagues. having lived here 57 years and as a former officer with the old Valley National Bnak of course I got to know many of the radio and TV personalities but out of all of them I never had the pleasure of meting Bill personally but Lois and I watched him every night on the 6PM News on 10 and we were there the night that our friend Mary Jo West started and what a news breaking occasion that was at least to those of us viewing the newscast.

To Bill's family I...

Joy and family, Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you. Bill will be missed by many. Joy, words can't describe the devotion you had for each other. Our entire family send their condolences.

Bill Close was my "Father" in broadcasting, gave me my start, guided & pushed me to search for perfection. I credit ALL of any success I have achieved to the foundation he helped build. I was honored to know him and the undisputed love of his life, Joy. My prayers are with the Close family as Bill receives his heavenly reward. I thank GOD for having Bill in my life.

Bill influenced so many people's lives and mine was one.
His bark was always bigger than his bite, and he was a total softie when it came to his wife, Joy. He was so wonderfully devoted.
There was never a dull moment co-anchoring with Bill, but I knew I was sitting next to a pro who continued to teach me and care about my well-being and as well as my son's.
Few people can have such influence on so many and also claim a bit of history for pioneering in broadcast...