Bill moved to Memphis when he was 8 years old and graduated from White Station High School in 1959. He attended Southwestern at Memphis (Rhodes) and graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy. While at Southwestern he met his future wife, Barbara Yost, at the "freshman mixer". Bill and Barbara married in 1963 and reached their 61st anniversary this year on August 2nd.
Bill was the owner of Peoples Pharmacy on Jackson Avenue, which became Peoples Custom Rx when he became a compounding pharmacist. As the focus of his business changed the pharmacy was moved to Brookhaven Circle East. He remained its owner until 2016. Bill was committed to and faithful to service his customers, both human and animal. Often he opened the store, regardless of the hours, whenever there was a patient's need.
Among his various awards are "Preceptor of the Year" given by U.T.'s College of Pharmacy, Tennessee "Outstanding Pharmacist of the Year", in 2006 one of a very few innovative pharmacies in the country, and "Outstanding Small Business of the Year" in 2011.
Bill had a deep love for his LORD and his family. If he had a hobby, it was reading and studying his Bible.
In addition to his wife, Barbara, Bill leaves 3 children, Bill (Luanne) Johns, Jr., Mike (Kelli) Johns, and Jennifer (Jeremy) Wilkes. Also, left to miss him are his grandchildren Kelcie (Jake) Craft, Leah (Austin) Powell, Issac, Olivia, Elizabeth, Michael (Caroline), Will, Sarah, Andrew Johns, Rachel and Joshua Wilkes. And too, he adored his great-grandchildren, Henry, Lucy, Ellie, Thomas, Annie, and Levi. As an only child, Bill has left a wonderful heritage.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, August, 30 at 12:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of Second Presbyterian Church, 4055 Poplar Avenue followed by a visitation from 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. also at the church.
If you choose to send a memorial it may be sent to Second Presbyterian Church, Young Life, All Saints Presbyterian Church, Rachel's Kids or the charity of your choice.
