Bill was the beloved son of Kathleen Wilson and Walter F. Taff, both of whom preceded him in death, along with his brother, Bobby Ray Taff. The family moved to Odessa, Texas, where Bill graduated from Odessa High School in 1957. During his high school years, Bill joined the U.S. Navy Reserves, proudly answering the call to active duty in 1962, serving until his honorable discharge in March 1965.
Bill married the love of his life, Suzan Benbow, also of Odessa in 1963. The two moved to Beaumont, Texas where he attended Lamar University, graduating in 1966 with a BBA. His post graduate work included investment banking and transmission engineering. Upon graduation, Bill worked as a pharmaceutical representative for Burroughs Wellcome, and later as a stockbroker for Rotan Mosle, until entering the automation industry. In 1985, Bill moved with his family to San Antonio, where he eventually retired in 2004 from Rockwell Automation. He was active in the community serving on the Boards of several organizations as Treasurer.
Bill shared a life of love and happiness with Suzan, his wife of 61 years. He was a man of many passions, finding joy in sailing, scuba diving, golfing, summers at the beach, and hunting. He enjoyed spending time on both the water and in the mountains. Bill was also an accomplished pianist and singer, performing in both a professional band and community theatre in his younger years. Above all, he cherished time away with his family, especially his grandsons, at their Central Texas ranch—a place that held countless cherished memories.
Survivors include his wife, Suzan Taff; his children, Colin Taff (Jill Coffey) of Lumberton, TX and Ashley Sinclair (Foster) of San Antonio, TX; grandchildren, Hayden Gee, Samuel Gee, Steven Sinclair, Cullen Sinclair (Rachel), Jason Coffey, and Jenna Coffey: and one great-grandchild.
Bill’s legacy is one of service, adventure, and devotion to family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 10:30 am at University Methodist Church, 5084 De Zavala Road, to honor Bill's remarkable journey and the impact he had on those around him. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Bill’s memory to University Methodist Church, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, or a charity of your choice.
