William Gowen Webb

William Gowen Webb, 81, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2025. Born in Memphis on September 24, 1943, to Dr. C.R. and Martha Webb, his family relocated to Ripley, Tennessee, in the 1950s to establish his father's rural medical practice. He attended Ripley High School, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi, before graduating from Memphis State University.
Bill had three brothers, Kirby, John and Ray. Their small-town upbringing instilled in him the importance of hard work, nature, simplicity, commitment, and strong bonds with friends and family. These values shaped the man he became.
With his three children, Leigh, Lynne, and Bill Jr., he aimed for success in all aspects of his life. Family was paramount, and weekends were typically spent in Ripley with his parents and brothers. The Mississippi River was their summer playground, offering countless Sundays of swimming and water skiing.
Weeknights were a blend of family and passion for Bill. After preparing dinner for his kids, he'd retreat to his garage, the hum of his band saw often echoing into the evening. While some neighbors occasionally grumbled, they couldn't deny his skill and frequently sought his advice about their own projects.
Bill's love for golf had an unexpected payoff: his mother, with a touch of matchmaking, introduced him to Jo, the woman who would become his best friend and wife. Their first date, a summer day spent on a Mississippi River delta with friends and family, was a promising start. After a few years of dating, they married and settled in Memphis, with Jo's son, Blonie becoming part of their newly formed family.
His role as Executive Vice President of External Affairs at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Memphis provided him with more than just a career; it fostered a strong sense of community. His colleagues became close friends, a bond strengthened by their shared love of Pickwick. He and Jo purchased a second home there, enjoying countless hours at the lake with their friends and family.
A die-hard University of Memphis fan, Bill's passion for men's basketball and football was evident. He traveled to away games for both teams, and his season tickets, held since his Memphis State graduation, underscored his unwavering support.
Family was Bill's heart, the wellspring of his strength and inspiration. He loved his wife, Jo, his children, and his beloved grandchildren with all his being. They were his greatest joy, filling his life with immeasurable happiness. Each moment shared was treasured, woven into the fabric of lasting memories. His devotion to family, a value instilled in his youth, shaped his character. He leaves behind a legacy woven with love.
He is preceded in life by his parents, Dr. CR Webb and Martha Webb of Ripley. He leaves his brothers Kirby (Leta), John (Sally), Ray (Martha). Children, Bill, Jr. (Robin), Leigh Robinson (Greg), Lynne, Blonie (Hayley), his wife of 44 years, Jo and his grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a host of friends around the world. While death is inevitable, true living is a choice. Bill chose to live.
Visitation will be held in Memphis at Canale Funeral Home, Friday February 7, 2025 from 10AM-11AM, and the service at 11AM. The graveside service will follow at 1:30PM in Ripley, Tennessee at Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and or the American Heart Association.
Previous Events
Visitation
FEB 7. 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (CT)
Canale Funeral Directors
2700 Union Avenue Extended
Memphis, TN 38112
(901) 452-6400
info@canalefuneraldirectors.com
https://www.canalefuneraldirectors.com
Funeral Service
FEB 7. 11:00 AM (CT)
Canale Funeral Directors
2700 Union Avenue Extended
Memphis, TN 38112
(901) 452-6400
info@canalefuneraldirectors.com
https://www.canalefuneraldirectors.com
Graveside Service
FEB 7. 1:30 PM (CT)
Memorial Gardens
2632 TN-209
Ripley, TN To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of William, please visit our Tree Store.