William Hanson Lauderdale

William Hanson Lauderdale, 77, of Metropolis, Illinois, entered into the loving presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Baptist Health Paducah.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Lighthouse Assembly of God, with Pastor Bret Laszlo and Pastor Jeff Russell officiating. Burial will follow at Metropolis Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held from 12:00 noon until the time of the funeral service at the church.

William was born on August 9, 1948, in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, to Rosella A. (Hanson) and Calvin Lauderdale. He had many adventures traveling as a young child before making Metropolis his home. He began his working years at a filling station where he further developed his love for cars. He then moved on to work for Gene Chicon Vending, filling candy machines. In 1974, William was hired at Honeywell, formerly Allied Chemical, where he worked in various positions for more than 35 years, retiring in 2010. He enjoyed sharing the story of how he came to receive the job, a blessing he attributed to the Lord's provision and answered prayer.

In 1971, he married the love of his life, Judith (Judy) McCoy. Together, they shared 54 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with one beloved daughter.

In retirement, William found great joy traveling with Judy and spending time with his family and grandchildren. He loved the water, especially taking trips to the ocean. William was also a lifelong car enthusiast with a special love for Corvettes. His passion began with his joy of owning sports cars like his 1969 Z28 Camaro and continued with his 1979 Corvette and later bright yellow Corvette convertible that he loved to drive. He enjoyed drag races and talking about cars whenever he got the chance. He was also an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, never wanting to miss a game.

William cherished his family and the Lord above all else. He adored his grandchildren, who brought him the utmost joy. He was incredibly proud of his "ZB" and "Zo-bug," and was actively involved in their lives. He proudly supported all their various activities and loved to share his wisdom and faith with his family. His love for the Lord was at the heart of everything he did. He was a man of strong faith and a prayer warrior for any and everyone. He never hesitated to pray with someone, even a stranger who may need to be uplifted. He was always willing to share an encouraging word from the Lord and speak about his faith. William was a longtime member of Lighthouse Assembly of God, where he faithfully served in various capacities, including treasurer and board member.

To his family, William will forever be remembered as a man defined by love-love for his Savior, and love for his family. His comforting presence, faithful prayers, and unwavering devotion will be deeply missed.

William is survived by his wife of 54 years, Judy (McCoy) Lauderdale; daughter, Michelle Smith and husband Cory; grandchildren, Zander Smith and Zoe Smith; sisters, Linda L. Clayton (Joe); Donna Barrett (Randy); and brother, Calvin Leo Lauderdale (Beth); loving stepmother, Estela Lauderdale, whom he held close; and several special nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Rosella A. (Hanson) Lauderdale; father, Calvin L. Lauderdale; mother and father-in-law, Elie T. and Frieda McCoy; brother, Ricky Lauderdale; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Karen and Jerry Leek.

Memorial contributions may be made in William's name to Lighthouse Assembly of God, 670 Airport Road, Metropolis, IL 62960, or Kidz in Christ c/o Salt & Light Church, 155 Pugh Road, Paducah, KY 42001.

Pallbearers will be Zander Smith, Cory Smith, Mark Clayton, Charles Leek, Brett Davis, and Justin Hatcher.

Honorary pallbearers will be Zoe Smith, Calvin Leo Lauderdale, Joe Clayton and Randy Barrett.

Arrangements are entrusted to Aikins-Farmer-Loftus-McManus Funeral Home. Condolences for the family may be left online at www.aikinsfarmer-millerfh.com.