William Hardwick Drinkard III

Bill spent his early years in Montgomery and Cullman, Alabama. A proud graduate of Cullman High School, Class of 1965, he went on to earn a B.S. degree from Auburn University and an M.B.A. from Jacksonville State University. During high school, he was elected Governor of the Alabama District of Key Club International. The leadership and commitment to service he cultivated through Key Club laid the foundation for a lifetime of professional success and civic engagement.

A visionary entrepreneur and businessman, Bill opened Alabama’s first Apple Computer store in 1978. He later served as CEO and Administrator of the Holy Name of Jesus Hospital in Gadsden during the 1980s and went on to become Vice President of Leasing and Development for Drinkard Development, LLC.

In addition to his business accomplishments, Bill had a distinguished career in public service. He served two terms in the Alabama House of Representatives (1978–1983) and two terms in the Alabama Senate (1983–1990). During his legislative career, he was known for his thoughtful approach to policy and his dedication to serving the people of Alabama.

His civic contributions extended well beyond elected office. He served as Chairperson of the Cullman Downtown Redevelopment Authority and held appointments on the Alabama Historical Commission, the Alabama Chiropractic License Board, the Alabama Retail Association, and the Gadsden Housing Authority. His service across a wide range of civic boards reflected his deep commitment to community development and public service throughout the state.

Later in life, Bill worked at UAB Hospital in Birmingham in patient services, helping families whose loved ones were undergoing surgery. His calm demeanor and compassionate presence provided comfort to many during challenging times.

Bill was a lifelong learner and a prolific reader. His intellectual curiosity led him to write ELOM, a science fiction saga published by TOR, the world’s largest science fiction publisher. He was fascinated by ancient cultures and built an impressive collection of artifacts from the Middle East and Pre-Columbian South America. His studies extended into philosophy and theology, and though he explored many belief systems, he remained firmly grounded in his childhood faith in Christ.

He is survived by his daughters, Virginia Dee Kilgore of Birmingham, Alabama, and Jacqueline Casey Drinkard of Rainbow City, Alabama; his sisters, Terry Drinkard Nagel of Kamloops, Canada, and Jerry Drinkard Pollard of Hilo, Hawaii.; and step-son, James Brett Parker. In addition, Bill is survived by six grandchildren: Lillian Judith Kilgore, Mary Jordan Gilbert, Virginia Sims Kilgore, William Griffin Drinkard, Rosebud June Drinkard, and great-grandson Nolan Fuller Gilbert.