William J. Eckert USAF Ret.

William J. Eckert, USAF, Ret., known affectionately as Bill to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, at his home in Deptford, NJ, at the age of 83. Bill was a man of unwavering integrity, a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. His devotion to his family was the cornerstone of his life, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Bill's life was marked by his commitment to service. He bravely joined the United States Marine Corps in 1959 and served during the Cuban Missile Crisis and later continued his dedication to his country by joining the United States Air Force. After retiring from the USAF in 1993, Bill's work ethic remained steadfast as he transitioned to a civilian career at the US Naval Shipyard, and later as a driver for Auto Sunroof, Inc., in Cinnaminson, NJ. His colleagues will remember him as a reliable and hardworking individual who brought both skill and camaraderie to the workplace.

In 1965, Bill married the love of his life, Barbara Eckert (nee Watts), and together they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories. Their union was blessed with two sons, Brad and Charles Eckert, who inherited their father's strength of character and kindness. Bill's legacy continued to flourish with the birth of his grandchild, Alyssa Eckert, and her partner Tim Buchman, and his great-grandchild, Alaina. His brother, Jake Karley, and sister-in-law, Debbie, also survive him, and they will hold dear the memory of the bond they shared.

Bill, a longtime resident of Deptford, has been a pillar of the community since 1978. His home was a testament to his handy nature, with a well-maintained lawn and a flourishing vegetable garden that was the envy of his neighbors. Bill's love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for the beach and sunbathing by the pool, where he found great solace and relaxation.

Those who knew Bill would describe him as loving, handy, and thoughtful. He was a deeply devoted family man. His thoughtfulness extended beyond his immediate circle, touching the lives of many with his generosity and compassion.

As we bid farewell to William J. Eckert, we celebrate a life well-lived, a man who was the embodiment of love and dedication. His memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of his beloved family and friends. Bill's journey on earth has concluded, but the impact of his life's work and the love he shared will endure forever.

The visitation for Bill is scheduled for Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM at Earle Funeral Home, 122 W. Church St., Blackwood, NJ, where a Catholic prayer service will follow at 11:00 AM. We will travel in procession to his interment at Gloucester County Veteran's Cemetery, Williamstown, NJ

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Kidney Fund

Memories may be shared/viewed at: earlefuneralhome.com