William Eugene Mote

William Mote, 102, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories. William was born on November 18, 1921. A lifelong resident of Vestavia, Alabama, William was proud of his family’s deep roots as some of the area’s earliest settlers. His family played a part in building the foundation of Shades Mountain Baptist Church, where they dug the basement by hand.

William proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II aboard the USS Bremerton, where he contributed to the nation’s efforts during one of the most pivotal times in history.

He began his career at Alabama Power at a young age as the mail room messenger, continued on to climbing collector, and then was promoted to the main office as an executive. William retired in 1986 as Executive Manager of Data Computer Systems after a long and successful career with 46 years of service. In retirement, he enjoyed a second career in real estate with Oxford Realty.

William’s dedication to family was a central part of his life. He is preceded in death by his wife, Janie, the love of his life. He took great pride in helping her run her lifelong dream of owning a tea room, “The Merry Oakes.” Together, they created a space that reflected their shared passion for hospitality.

William remained close to his 9 siblings his entire life, each of whom he held dear. He especially loved Mote family reunions, where dozens of cousins gathered to share stories and reminisce about their deep familial bonds.

William was a longtime member of Homewood Cumberland Presbyterian Church, serving as deacon and elder, superintendent of Sunday School, and teacher of the Fidelis Sunday School Class for many years. His faith and community were important to him. In his later retirement years while his wife, Janie, was at church, he would stay home to prepare the family lunch under her loving direction. It became a sweet tradition, with William happily following her instructions to ensure the perfect Sunday meal was ready for everyone to enjoy.

Affectionately known as “Honey” by his grandchildren, William truly lived up to his name, with a sweetness and gentle nature that was noticed by everyone who knew him.

William and Janie shared a love of adventure and history, which they enjoyed through numerous trips to Europe. Together, they created cherished memories that reflected their shared curiosity and appreciation for the world.

Gardening was one of William’s greatest joys, and he spent countless hours tending to his beloved roses and vegetable garden. His backyard was a sanctuary where he welcomed family, proudly showing them his collection of antiques and personal projects in his “little house.” His gentle spirit made every visit a cherished memory, especially on Christmas mornings, when he made breakfast for the entire family, filling the house with warmth and tradition.

One of William’s favorite traditions was taking the family on a walk around his yard, proudly showing off the new hydrangeas or roses in bloom, the latest fruit tree in bloom, or a freshly painted porch or birdhouse—he was always eager to share his love of gardening and home projects.

William is preceded in death by his wife Janie Mote, his loving parents, Walter Hickman Mote and Annie Stubbs Mote, daughter, Judy Taylor, grandson Henry S. Arnold III (Trey) sisters Vivian Bernice Mote Walker, Sarah Elizabeth Mote Strozier, Emily Cordele Mote, Clara Marie Mote Strozier, Verna May Mote Konig, Mary Ellen Mote, and brothers Joe Douglas Mote, and Walter Clay Mote. and Leonard Gene Mote. He is survived by his daughter Jill Arnold (Hank), granddaughters Stacy Young (David) Shannon Fitzwater (Shawn) , and Melanie Taylor, great grandchildren Leland, William David, Sims, James, Nevin, Caleb, Gabe, Noah, and Finn, and his sister Betty Ann Mote Bowen.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers who lovingly cared for William during the last eight years of his life. His gentle spirit and unwavering love will be missed every day by his family. William’s memory will continue to inspire those who knew him.