William J "Bill" Korlath

1951 - 2025

William (Bill) Korlath Obituary
(October 30, 1951 – November 17, 2025)

William (Bill) Korlath of Raymond, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at his home on November 17, 2025.

Born on October 30, 1951, in Glen Dale, West Virginia, to William J. (Bill) Korlath, Sr. and Lillie Dale Strong, Bill moved as a young boy with his mother and two sisters to Jackson, Mississippi. He graduated from Wingfield High School and went on to earn his degree from Mississippi State University, where he met the love of his life and wife of 53 years, Barbara Allbritton.

At just 21 years old, Bill began what would become a remarkable 50-year career with Irby Construction Company in Jackson, Mississippi. Over the decades, he rose through the ranks with a blend of technical expertise, unshakable integrity, and a deep respect for the people who made the work possible.

Bill's leadership was characterized by humility, courage, and vision. As President of Irby Construction for more than 13 years, he guided the company through periods of growth and transformation, always emphasizing safety, excellence, and teamwork. He believed that success wasn't measured merely in miles of line built, but in the trust earned from employees, customers, and communities.

Colleagues across Irby and Quanta remember Bill as a mentor who saw potential in everyone. His door - and his heart - were always open. Whether he was visiting crews in the field, sharing a story that left everyone laughing, or rolling up his sleeves to help solve a problem, Bill embodied the spirit of servant leadership. His legacy lives on in the countless careers he helped shape and the enduring culture of respect and camaraderie that defines Irby today.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill was known for his kindness, quick wit, and boundless generosity. He brought joy and laughter to every room and found genuine happiness in the success and well-being of others.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Korlath, Sr.; his mother, Lillie Dale Korlath; and his sister, Sharon Vinson.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara Korlath; his son, Jonathan Korlath (Jessica); and his cherished granddaughter, Hannah Renee Korlath. He is also survived by his sister, Judy Dawson (Jerry) of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and nephews Christopher Dawson and Bill Sanderford.

A visitation will be held at Wright and Ferguson Funeral Home in Raymond, Mississippi, on Sunday, November 23, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will follow at Holy Savior Catholic Church in Clinton, Mississippi, on Monday, November 24, with visitation at 9:00 a.m. and Mass at 10:00 a.m., followed by burial at Raymond Cemetery.

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