William Bruce Whitbeck

William B. Whitbeck, 41, of Pensacola, Florida, passed suddenly on Monday, December 29, 2025.
Born on October 22, 1984, in Catskill, New York, William-affectionately known as "Will"-was the son of Bruce Whitbeck and Pamella Higgins. He grew up in Freehold, NY, graduated from Greenville Central High School, and earned his Bachelor's degree in Applied Sciences from Alabama's Troy University.
At 17, Will proudly joined the United States Marine Corps, serving from 2002 to 2011. He was a two-time veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During his service, he married his high school sweetheart, Colleen "Co" Whitbeck, in 2007.
Will had a deep love for the outdoors-fishing, kayaking, and grilling were among his favorite pastimes. Following in his father's footsteps he was a lifelong Buffalo Bills fan, he cherished time with family and friends and was known for his adventurous spirit, traveling with Colleen to Europe and the Caribbean whenever possible. His compassion, easygoing nature, and dedication to community service defined him. He volunteered regularly with Wreaths Across America at Barrancas National Cemetery, a cause close to his heart.
Will was immensely proud of his Marine Corps service and carried that pride throughout his life. At the time of his passing, he was employed at Navy Federal Credit Union, where he worked for nine years.
He is survived by his beloved wife Colleen Whitbeck and their dog Logan; his mother, Pamella Higgins and his stepfather Jon Delly of Cairo, NY; and siblings Jennifer Lampman of Colonie, NY, Daniel Whitbeck of Westerlo, NY, and Dylan Whitbeck of Cairo, NY. Also survived by nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins and many extended family.
Will was preceded in death by his father, Bruce Whitbeck, and his paternal and maternal grandparents.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Waters & Hibbert Funeral Home, 124 W Gregory St., Pensacola, FL. Military Honors and Interment will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery, located on Naval Air Station Pensacola, at 2:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Navy Marine Corps Relief Society or the USO in his honor.