William Benjamin Chambers Jr.

ALEXANDER CITY - William (Bill) Benjamin Chambers, Jr. died peacefully at his home on July 11, 2017 after a long struggle with Parkinson's Disease. Bill was born on December 13, 1930 in Lynchburg, VA to Naomi Sandidge Chambers and William B. Chambers. He is preceded in death by his parents and his only sister, Linda Chambers Faunce (Bob) of Richmond, VA. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Betty; his son William III (Phyllis Creech) of Reidsville, NC; his daughter Jane Chambers House (Brad) of Greensboro, NC; two granddaughters and one great-grandson. Bill was raised in Lynchburg, VA and attended the College of William and Mary. In his senior year, Bill set the NCAA record for individual rebounds (51) in a single game - a record which still stands. After an unsuccessful try out with the Minneapolis (now Los Angeles) Lakers, Bill coached at Warwick High School and Newport News (VA) High School, where he won two Virginia High School Basketball Championships. He then returned to his alma mater where his William and Mary coaching record (113-110) was the most wins until 2016. Bill left coaching in 1966 and went into sales with Converse Rubber Company. After several years, he moved into management with Converse in Boston. He returned to the south and became a sporting good salesman in Florida, selling mainly Russell Athletic uniforms and soft goods. In 1990, Bill was appointed Vice-President of Sales for Russell Athletic in Alexander City, AL. Bill retired in 1994, and he and Betty spent many years enjoying road trips throughout the United States. He also spent many hours playing golf and fishing with his good friends at Willow Point. His many health problems limited his last years, but his perseverance and fighting spirit were an inspiration to many. Visitation will be at Radney Funeral Home from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on August 1st followed by a celebration of Bill's life at Willow Point Country Club. Contributions can be made to: The Tribe Club/Basketball (College of William and Mary, P O Box 399, Williamsburg, VA 23187; the Carlisle Enrichment Foundation (510 E. Samford Ave., Auburn 36830), or the charity of your choice. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome.com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.