William John Loughead

Bill has been a fighter his entire life – someone whose determination, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep love for his family and friends never wavered. At age 11, during his osteosarcoma treatments at Beaumont Hospital, Bill vowed to live fully for the 100 children who didn’t survive their battle with childhood cancer, a promise he honored throughout his extraordinary life. His boundless energy, leadership, and generosity touched countless lives. Bill found a passion in life, coaching and mentoring others in business and those facing similar physical challenges. He was an inspiration to everyone around him.

A lifelong entrepreneur, Bill launched his first successful business at age 19, paving the way for a lifetime of innovation and leadership across multiple ventures. At Ferris State University (class of 1994), Bill served as president of Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity and invigorated alumni chapters in San Francisco, Dallas, and Jacksonville. Bill’s commitment to mentorship extended beyond his fraternity to roles in the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) of Detroit, where he inspired countless business owners. Bill found his greatest joy on the water, at the helm of a boat, on the greens of a golf course, or dancing to live music with Tris by his side. He also held a passion for painted skies, always finding time to pause and embrace the beauty as it unfolded each day. Despite health challenges, Bill’s resilience as a childhood cancer survivor and refusal to let illness define him served as an enduring inspiration to all who knew him.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Tris Matthews Loughead; his mother, Carol Castle; his father, William Loughead (Diana); and his brothers, Jeremy Brown (Lilly) and Jason Castle (Tasha). He was predeceased by his stepparents, Sharon Loughead and Mike Castle. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held for friends and family in the Florida area, on June 20, 2025, from 3:00-8:00pm, at The Ocean Gallery Clubhouse, 4600 Highway A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080. A memorial service will take place on June 29, 2025, starting at 2:00pm at The First Presbyterian Church of Royal Oak, 529 Hendrie Blvd, Royal Oak, MI 48067.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Bill’s legacy with contributions to the Children’s Miracle Network or a charity close to your heart.