William M Harvill Jr.

Born on April 22, 1948, in Homewood, Alabama, William, known as “Billy,” was the first born son of William Myatt Harvill, Sr and Joan Rainey Harvill. Billy, along with his two beloved younger brothers, Herbert and Bobby, grew up in Edgewood where he made many lifelong friends. Here Billy attended parochial school at Our Lady of Sorrows Church remaining a devoted member until his death.

Billy earned his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa and then a degree in accounting from the University of Alabama in Birmingham. After working as a CPA Billy encouraged a lifelong friend to start his own advertising agency, offering to partner in the structural and financial dealings of what was then Strong Automotive Group. Combining his two passions of accounting and advertising this venture with his partner became a lifelong calling where he proved himself to be the consummate ad man. He played an instrumental role in founding, guiding and leading Strong Automotive, Vazda Video, the Intermark Group, Import Marketing and Vulcan Automotive. His efforts gained him due recognition within the business community of Birmingham, the advertising and marketing business of Alabama, and the national advertising landscape. Throughout his career, Billy Harvill hired, mentored and supported over 2,000 employees across departments at his agencies, as well as numerous students and interns over the years. In 2005, he was Awarded the Dean’s Award from The University of Alabama College of Communication and Information Sciences, and in 2013 he was inducted into the University of Alabama Communications Hall of Fame.

Outside of the advertising business and community, Billy was an active donor and fundraising leader for UAB Hospital, helping to develop their cancer center.

Beyond his business success and philanthropy, what most people will remember about Billy Harvill was his gregarious nature and loveable spirit. He was larger than life, a trusted confidante and a great friend who kept those old and new close. He was an avid golfer serving on the Board of Vestavia Country Club and then President from 2008 - 2011. As a seasoned boater Billy spent time cruising and fishing throughout the intercoastal waterways of Alabama and Florida, the Gulf of Mexico while spending time at second homes on Mobile Bay and Anna Maria Island. In retirement developed a passion and talent for playing poker, even traveling to Las Vegas to compete.

Billy is predeceased by his parents, brothers and son, William Myatt Harvill III. He is survived by his wife of 28 years Sharon Cox Harvill; his daughter, Kathryn Patricia Harvill Fix (Paul) and his grandchildren Wyatt, Virginia and Evelyn of Greenwich, CT, his stepson Brandon McCallum (Jamie), and his grandchildren Luke and Allie Grace of Indian Springs, AL. A special note of thanks on behalf of his family goes to Tarnise Small and Selah Stough, his wonderful caretakers.

A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows Church on Friday, January 17th at 2pm. A memorial celebration will follow immediately afterwards at Vestavia Country Club. Donations in his memory can be made to ALS Research.