It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bill Elmore, a beloved father, grandfather, racer, outdoorsman and successful businessman, who left us peacefully on March 14th, 2025, at the age of 80.
Bill’s life was defined by his unwavering passion, determination, work ethic and love for family, friends and his savior Jesus Christ. He was a man who lived life wide open — on the racetrack, the water and in his professional career. Born in 1944 in Long Beach, California, Bill found a love for cars at a young age, which would propel his professional and recreational life.
Bill was a successful businessman with a keen eye for opportunity. He built a thriving automotive collision repair company, Professional Collision, which became a well-known and trusted name in the community. His expertise and innovative spirit allowed him to turn his passion for cars into a career that helped shape the automotive industry for decades.
However, it was his role as a husband, father and grandfather that Bill cherished most of all. Bill was the proud father of two children, and two grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He dedicated himself to being a loving and supportive father, imparting to his children the same principles of hard work, integrity, and love for life that guided him.
Bill’s impact was not confined to his immediate family. He mentored countless young men and women, sharing his knowledge and inspiring others to new careers, as well as serving as a Godfather to Leah Winbush-Covington and a family in Cozumel Mexico. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, both personally and professionally.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda, his children, Billy (Leslie) Elmore and Donnie (Tallon) Elmore, grandchildren Blake and Cooper, niece Tina Whitmer, Elizabeth who knew him as Paw Paw, a trusted confidant Marvin Lopez, brothers Henry and Alvin, and a community of friends, colleagues, and racing enthusiasts who admired him. Bill’s indomitable spirit will be greatly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him. He was a man who truly lived life as he envisioned it – Wide Open.
A visitation for Bill will be held Thursday, March 20, 2025 from 9am to 10am at Irvington Fellowship Bible Church, 9350 Matlock Rd, Irvington, AL 36544, followed by the funeral service at 10am. The graveside service will be held at Pine Crest Cemetery, 1939 Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile, Alabama 36605.
Rest in peace, Bill Elmore. Your legacy will forever race on.
