William Henry "Bill" Giardina II

1934 - 2025

William (Bill) Giardina, affectionately known as "Daddy Dina" to his beloved grandchildren, passed away peacefully after a long illness on October 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, craftsmanship, and unwavering faith.

Born on October 13, 1934, in Helena, Arkansas, to William Henry (Bill) Sr. and Mary Johnson, he moved as a young boy with his family to Jackson, Mississippi, where he graduated from Central High School and later attended Hinds Junior College.

Bill's outgoing personality, loving spirit, and engaging positivity made him unforgettable to all who met him. He was known for always having a kind word and a big smile, brightening every room he entered.

As a professional master craftsman, Bill found joy in woodworking, especially in his shop where he created custom furniture and meticulously replicated antique poster beds for his clients, friends and family. He loved sharing this passion with his children, passing down both skill and love through each handcrafted piece.

Bill was also the founder of Church Organ Center, a business born from his deep appreciation for music and restoration. He traveled far and wide to find pianos and organs in need of care, lovingly restoring them to their original wooden beauty and glorious sound. These instruments found new homes in churches across the country, continuing to inspire worship and song.

Throughout his life, Bill wore many hats. He operated the Sunflower grocery store in DeKalb, MS, where in 1982 he was honored for Outstanding Community Service by the Merchants and Professional People of DeKalb. He also worked as a salesman for American National Insurance Company and as a car salesman at Service Motor Company in downtown Jackson.

Bill was deeply committed to his community. He served as President of the Jackson Jaycees in 1967 and was an active member of the Jackson Junior Chamber of Commerce and the Civic Arts Council. His dedication to civic engagement was a reflection of his generous spirit and love for people.

His hobbies included woodworking, gardening, and especially singing and playing the organ with friends and family-moments that brought him immense joy and connection.

Bill proudly served in the Army National Guard with the 114th MP Company for nine years, from 1952 to 1961, demonstrating his commitment to service and country.

Above all, Bill was a man of everlasting faith. He was devoted to First Baptist Church of Raymond, where he cherished his Sunday School class and looked forward to Tuesday night suppers at Jerry's Fish House. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and inspiring those around him.

Bill is survived by his children, William (Bill) Giardina III (Tammy), Lisa Giardina Freeze (Terry), and grandchildren, Emily and Chris Hillhouse. He is also survived by Dana Kent, David Leach, Richard Leach, and Kelly Clackley, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his brother Malcolm Leach, sister Mary Helen Clackley, and his cherished granddaughter, Betty Hillhouse.

As a very special thank you, in Bill's later years, he was blessed to be surrounded by caring neighbors and friends-Donna, Deborah, and Debra, and so many others-who looked out for him with genuine compassion and friendship. Their watchful eyes, thoughtful gestures, and heartfelt concern brought comfort and peace to both Bill and his family, and their kindness will never be forgotten.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held on Thursday, October 9th at Wright and Ferguson Funeral Home in Raymond, Mississippi. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a man whose life was a testament to craftsmanship, faith, love, and family.

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