William Otis Proffitt

William Otis Proffitt, age 79, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. A man whose life spanned eight decades of change, William was born on September 26, 1946, and remained a steady presence in the lives of those who knew him. Bill was known for his unwavering work ethic, where he spent over 40 years at Champion International Paper (Smart Paper) devoted to a swing shift schedule. William’s greatest pride wasn’t in what he achieved – it was seeing his children and grandchildren go further, grow stronger, and live better than he ever could. Throughout his life, he found great joy in the outdoors camping and spending time with his family. Whether he was telling stories on the porch, traveling, or watching his favorite sports team, Bill approached life with a sense of quality, integrity, and pride. He is survived by a family who will miss him dearly, including his devoted spouse of 60 years, Linda Stidham-Proffitt; his children, Tonja (Greg) Ernst, Sonja (Kenny) Roberts, and Melissa Hughes (Jim O’Neal); his grandchildren, Sheri (Danny) Arents, Brandon (Jessica) Cox, Amber (Aaron) Walter, Justin Proffitt, Devin (Taylor) Traylor, and Jacob Roberts; and 13 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Earnie (Sheila) Proffitt, Judy Shoemaker, and Rick (Dolly) Proffitt; and sisters-in-law, Joanne Stidham and Jennell Proffitt. He was preceded in death by his parents, Allie and Earnest Proffitt; and his siblings, Sherry Proffitt and Paul Proffitt. Bill served in the US Army February 7, 1966 with an honorable discharge February 6, 1968. He received the national defense service medal as a sharpshooter (Rifle). A Visitation in celebration of Bill’s life will be held from 10am until 12pm on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at Webb Noonan Kidd Funeral Home, Ross Avenue at South “D” Street, Hamilton, with a Service beginning at 12pm with Pastor Mark Wilson officiating. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Millville Cemetery. Condolences may be left for the family at www.Webb-Noonan.com