William "Bill" Addison

1937 - 2021

We die as we live. Bill lived his life selflessly, putting others before himself in his generosity of spirit. He died the same way -- fighting to the end to hold on for those who loved him. When he did go, it was peaceful. William "Bill" Addison, passed away Monday evening, July 19, 2021, with his devoted and loving wife of thirty seven years, Barbara Gibson Addison, by his side. His song has ended, but his melody carries on. Bill, born October 15, 1937, in Independence, Louisiana, the youngest of three, the only son, doted on and loved by two sisters, but not spoiled. Bill worked hard his entire life not only to provide for his family, but also to make life better for loved ones and strangers alike. From doing his sisters' chores, to driving the famous bread truck, breeding dogs, fixing flats for strangers, caring for foster children, taking in stray dogs, working for Hope Ministries, and so much more. Bill didn't walk away from what needed to be done. He was even known to play the occasional game of golf!!! A loyal man, Bill is a veteran of the United States Army. He worked for The Advocate for thirty seven years where he began in the composing room and retired as the facilities director. He knew everyone there by name, and they knew him because he was that outgoing and personable. He never met a stranger; he treated everyone as family. Bill has many names, Uncle Billy, Uncle Bill, Pops, Daddy, and most recently Papa. He is a father in the truest sense of the word -- protective, loving, responsible, engaged, involved -- to all of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and God children. He gave the same love and affection to his many nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters-in-law, cousins, co-workers, friends, and neighbors. He never missed important events in the lives of those he loved. He was often seen at football, baseball, basketball, and soccer games as well as wrestling matches, dance recitals and school performances supporting not only his family, but also friends. He simply did not miss an opportunity to be there for those he cared about. Blessed with a large family, Bill is survived by his children and their spouses: Thomas Dee Addison (Sharon), Cindy Dawn Addison Breaux (Ricky), Sherry McDonald Dugas (Byron), Shay McDonald (Kellie), Emily Weathers Hunt (Lyman), Wendy Weathers Brogdon (Wayne), Sunny Weathers (Amy). Grandchildren: William Lee Wilkinson, Sara Jane Breaux Farwell, Laura Anne Dantin, Bryce Duncan, Joshua Jones, John Ross and Lane Schuler, Daytona McDonald Roberts, Destiny and Delaynie McDonald, Michael and Mark Breaux, and Honorary grandson James Knighten. Bill has ten great-grandchildren, with his newest great grandson Neil Farwell, just three weeks old. He was preceded in death by his parents William "Mr. Bill" and Nettie Addison, nee Chambers, sisters, Nina Jo Bennett and Louise Puls, son, Timothy Kyle "Skipper" Addison, and his many beloved pet dogs. Visitation will be held, Saturday July 24, 9:00 AM-11:00 AM with a Memorial service at 11:00 AM. Broadmoor United Methodist Church, 10230 Mollylea Drive, Baton Rouge, 70815. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Broadmoor United Methodist Church or Hope Ministries Baton Rouge.