William Landers

William C. "Corky" Landers A Life Lived with an Open Heart October 7, 1943 – November 24, 2025

How lucky were we to have a Corky.

William C. "Corky" Landers left this world on November 24, 2025, at the age of 82, in Midway, Kentucky-his heart full, his story complete. Born in Indianapolis to Joseph and Ida Mae Landers (Huxel), and raised among brothers Jim, Mike, Tom, Jack, Ted and sister Fran. He learned early what it meant to love loudly, show up fully, and never take life too seriously.

To his children, Steven (Dawn) and Susan, he was the steady warmth of home. He was the proud father on the sidelines, the encouraging voice, the tease, the protector, and the safe place to land. Susan was forever "daddy's little girl," whether they were building life together or cheering from the edge of a horse arena. Steve shared with him a quiet bond built on respect, laughter, and an easy understanding between them. Their Canadian fishing trips held some of their most cherished memories-simple days that meant everything.

To his grandchildren-Jonathan, Jake, Aaron, Jeremy, Ethan, Jack, Paige, and Brenna-and his great-grandchildren-Paisley, Ophelia, and Sterling-he was joy, mischief, and unconditional pride. Every story about them lit him up from the inside. To his Cleveland "adoptive" kids-John (Whitney), Joyce (Derek), and Laura (Brian)-he was a strong father figure, choosing them as steadfastly as they chose him. What began as a stay with his Uncle George and Aunt Ginny became more than twenty years of devotion-helping, caring, guiding and loving those kids. He honored a promise, and in doing so created a family bound not only by blood, but by gratitude, grace, and shared memories. His Aunt Ginny became a companion of the heart; In his final days, he spoke tenderly of her-their deep bond, their years together, and the comfort he felt knowing he would see her again. Anyone who met Corky loved him. He had a gift-an open face, a quick wit, a little flirt in his smile. He could talk to anyone. He could listen to everyone. His kindness was disarming. His honesty refreshing. His presence-simply unforgettable.

Sales was his career, but people were his calling. He collected friendships the way some collect treasures, and every one of them mattered to him. Corky believed that life was about moments-about making memories with the people you love. He lived that belief fully and left behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and lessons that will echo in the hearts of those who knew him. His love was endless. His impact immeasurable. And though our hearts are heavy, they are also full-because he was ours.

During Corky's last days under hospice care, he was afforded the cherished gift of sharing stories, laughs, tears, and goodbyes with his loved ones. In reflecting with his pastor, Corky drew upon seeds planted in his Catholic childhood to recognize God's hand in his life, guiding his path, even when he was not aware. Corky left this world for the next assured in his faith and of Christ's everlasting love for him.

It brings comfort to imagine Corky in heaven, reunited with his infant granddaughter Brenna, whom he loved so completely in her short time here. Held once more in his arms, their bond is now forever.

Loved by many, missed by all. How lucky were we to have a Corky.

Cremation services were handled by Clark's Legacy Center in Versailles, Kentucky

Church Service in Honor of Corky: November 29, 2025

New Union Christian Church, Disciples of Christ 440 Old Frankfort Pike Versailles, Kentucky

Friends and family are invited to gather for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m.

All are welcomed to Susan's home following the service for a small gathering and refreshments.

In addition, a celebration of Corky's life will be held in Cincinnati next year, with the date to be determined, providing another opportunity for friends and family to honor his memory and share the joy he brought to their lives.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Corky's lifelong love of horses, the family requests that donations be made to: Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Georgetown, Kentucky