William Ira Latta

Louisville - William Ira Latta, Jr., N4LH, 103 plus years old, entered his long sought eternal rest on January 7, 2024. Bill died at Treyton Oak Towers where he and his wife, Martha lived for many years.

Bill was born to William Ira Latta Sr. and Pearl Butts Latta in Atlanta, Georgia on April 22, 1920. His siblings, Mary and Phil and parents, together with wife Martha (Moo) all pre-deceased him.

Mercer University, Macon, Georgia, was Bills college of choice. He graduated in the class of 1942 with the highest of honors. His college studies were devoted to literature, languages and the arts, especially choral music. After college, he enlisted in the army focusing on pilot training and later communications teaching morse-code and other cryptographies.

After an honorable discharge from the army, Bill became director of communications for Eastern Airlines, worked with L&N Railroad, Westinghouse, and was an engineer with local radio stations. Bill ended his professional career with the psychology department at the University of Louisville.

Bills professional life was only enhanced by his love of "ham-radio". He received his license in 1938 and from that year forward made many friends throughout the world via "ham-radio". Bill, along with two other "ham" friends were founding members of the Louisville Electronic Homebrewers in Louisville, Kentucky. His expertise and knowledge of the subject were sought after resulting in many articles published in professional magazines around the globe.

Those who cared for Bill in his last years will always be remembered with gratitude. The Hosparus staff, Courtney RN, Varian, and Elizabeth as well as Treyton Oak staff member Mike (favorite nurse) and his other bedside caregivers.

To always remember this southern gentleman are nieces Merri Pinson Marino of Watertown, Massachusetts, Naomi Pinson of Framingham, Massachusetts, Phyllis Latta Walls of Athens, Georgia, grandnephews Matthew and Michael Sheppard of Detroit, Michigan, Rev. David Hedges of Tucson, Arizona, and niece Linda Sheppard Brooks (Bailey) and family of Louisville, Kentucky.

Bill bequeathed his body to the University of Louisville Anatomical Science Program. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, February 10, 2024, at First Unitarian Church, 809 S 4th Street, Louisville, Kentucky. Visitation at 1:30 pm with a service to follow at 2:00 pm.

Remembrances to Hosparus, Employee Fund of Treyton Oak Towers or First Unitarian Church.