William Robert Poland

Bill was born in Philadelphia to Irene and William Poland. When Bill was 3, they moved to Anniston Alabama. After graduating from high school Bill attended Auburn University where he met the love of his life, Suzanne. They married in 1966 and had 2 lovely daughters, Kelly and Rebecca (Craig). After a few years with IBM, Bill, Suzanne and their daughters moved to Jacksonville where he joined Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida. Bill was instrumental in the development of many of the computer systems. Bill and the family later moved to Atlanta while he worked for Rollins Inc.

In 1987 Bill and the family moved back to Jacksonville where he returned to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida. He retired after 30 years of service.

Bill was very active and enjoyed many hobbies. He and Suzanne were avid scuba divers logging over 300 dives. They also enjoyed photography and started a wedding photography business. Bill’s hobbies included wood working and later faceting gem stones with the Jacksonville Gem and Mineral Society. He was never at a loss for something to keep him busy.

Bill was most proud of his family. Both of his daughters have successful careers and have given him 5 grandchildren, Jack (Shannon), Devon, Daniel, Sarah and Selina (David). Family dinners were always special for him as he had more time with the grands.

Bill was a kind, thoughtful, generous and always had a $2 bill or gold coin to pass on to anyone he came in contact with. He loved to learn new things and enjoyed teaching everything he knew.

He will be sorely missed by each and every one of us.

A Funeral Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, October 22, 2022 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Mandarin. Visitation prior to the mass at 9am. The mass will begin at 10am. Following the mass, the family will receive guests at the family home.

A visitation from for William will be held Saturday, October 22, 2022 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at St Joseph's Catholic Church, 11757 Old St Augustine Rd #2001, Jacksonville, FL 32258, with a funeral mass following, at 10:00 AM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hgmandarin.com for the Poland family.