William Herman Camp

Mr. William Herman Camp, affectionately known as Bill or Billy to many, passed away on December 5, 2025, in Olympia Fields, Illinois, at the age of 91. A devoted father, grandfather, veteran, and man of unwavering faith, Bill lived a life marked by love, service, and strength.

Born on February 23, 1934, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Bill grew up in a close-knit community where he developed the values that would guide him throughout his life. He attended Westinghouse High School in Pittsburgh and soon after graduation answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. His time in the Navy instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and commitment that he carried into every aspect of his life.

Following his military service, Bill began a long and dedicated career with Bell Telephone Company. As a telephone installer, he played an essential role in connecting people across communities-a fitting occupation for someone who so naturally connected with others. He retired from Bell in 1983 after 42 years of loyal service.

Bill's greatest joy came from his family. Bill married the love of his life, Shirley Jean Jenkins. From this union came two cherished children, Brian and Lisa Camp. Bill embraced his role as husband and father wholeheartedly. Family mornings often began with the comforting aroma of slow-cooked bacon and oatmeal, lovingly prepared by Bill before he chauffeured the children to school and Shirley to work; always managing to arrive at his own job early.

Family vacations were among Bill's most cherished memories, especially trips to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina-and he delighted in going on cruises with loved ones. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he rarely missed a Steelers game and enjoyed watching all kinds of sports. He also had a passion for movies and found joy in sharing them with family.

He was a loving father to Brian Camp and Lisa Camp-Fowowe and took immense pride in their lives and accomplishments. After the passing of his beloved wife Shirley Jean Camp on April 2, 1981, Bill became both mother and father to his children-guiding them with compassion, wisdom, and unwavering support.

Faith was central to Bill's life. Over the years, he was an active member of Mount Ararat Baptist Church and Rodman Street Baptist Church in Pittsburgh. A devout Baptist and committed churchgoer for over three decades, he served faithfully as Head of the Deacon Board-a role that reflected both his leadership and his deep spiritual conviction.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Jean Camp; his parents, Pollie (Cox) Camp and William Camp; his uncle, Frank Cox; his brother-in-law, Tom Parnell; his stepson, Darryl L. Jenkins, Sr.; and his granddaughter, Tierra Camp.

Those who knew Bill remember him as generous-hearted and deeply protective of those he loved. His friendly nature made it easy for him to form lasting connections wherever he went. Through personal example rather than words alone, he taught his children what it meant to be strong yet gentle; how to love deeply; how to treat others with respect; and how to build a family rooted in kindness.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Brian Camp (Nicole) and Lisa Camp-Fowowe (Peter); brother-in-law Robert (Patricia and son Bobby); grandchildren Tarik. Tori, and Gabriel; step-grandchildren Tashay, Shawnte, Darryl Jr. and Eric. As well as Karen Jenkins, and a host of other loving family members and friends.

Mr. William Herman Camp leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through the lives of those who knew him best. May his memory bring comfort to all who were touched by his presence.

His strength lives on through the family he raised with such care-and through every heart that carries forward the lessons he so generously gave.