William Roby McFadden

He was born January 13, 1935 in Herrin, Illinois to parents B.R. and Ethele McFadden. He graduated from Southern Illinois University in 1958. He began Officer's Training in the U.S. Navy and graduated to Ensign in May. He spent his career as a Navy Navigator, flying the Barrier from Hawaii to Alaska. He finished his Naval active duty at NAS, in Squadron VP 18, Jacksonville in April of 1963, where he remained in the Reserves for seven more years. He then joined Peninsular Life Insurance Company and became Vice President of Marketing for Occidental Life in North Carolina. At retirement he and his wife, Diane came back to Jacksonville.

He loved sports of all kinds. He played football in high school. Tennis, golf, and running were his favorite sports. His pastime was spent building furniture and Christmas wooden decoration, and small models of airplanes, cars, and anything wooden. Boating was also a great part of his relaxing time. His proudest moments were the birth of children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was a devoted member of St Johns Presbyterian Church. He served as an Ordained Elder, Trustee, and Business Manager.

He was predeceased by his Father, Mother, and Sister, Verna Lee. The surviving members of his family are his loving wife of sixty-eight years, Diane, his three children, son, Mike McFadden (Erika), and daughters Marla Perry (Charles), and Amy Williams (Jamie). His grandchildren are Diane Pesanka (Ryan), Austin Perry (Alix), Lee Ward (Kelli), Rachel Douglas (Kyle), Clair McFadden, Colee Williams, and Paige McFadden. His great-grandchildren are Colt and Cooper Catlin, Alden Pesanka, Reid, Olivia and Stella Perry, Hailey, Sophia and Julia Ward, and Harper Douglas.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM,Thursday, October 24th, 2024 at St Johns Presbyterian Church, 4275 Herschel St, Jacksonville, FL 32210.The memorial service will be officiated by Rev. Jon Lovelady. A reception will follow the memorial service in the fellowship hall.

In Lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or St. Johns Presbyterian Church.