Bill was born in Wytheville, Virginia on March 23, 1934 to Kate Anderson Babcock and Mark Babcock. He grew up in Daytona Beach, Florida.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Julie Cheves Babcock, his son Mark William Babcock (Laura) and grandchildren Sophie, Eva and Max, of Madrid, Spain, and his brother James M Babcock (Anita) of Tampa.
Bill graduated from Mainland High School in Daytona Beach in 1953 and served in the US Marine Corps before attending the University of Florida, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Education in 1960 and a Master of Education in 1966.
After graduation, Bill became an educator, teaching for more than 47 years, including 41 years at The Bolles School.
Bill began his career at Bolles in 1966 and retired in 2007. He taught many subjects during his tenure at Bolles – including history, economics, and AP levels of US and comparative government. He served as chairman of the Social Studies Department until 1997 and was then named chair emeritus. As Director of Student Activities, Bill was also an instrumental mentor and inspiration to students in the National Honor Society and the Student Council. He was the first person to be named The Henrietta Donovan Chair of American Studies and was one of four teachers citywide selected for the Gladys Prior Award for Career Teaching Excellence in 2002.
In addition to his work at Bolles, Bill served the Advanced Placement Program of the College Board as a Grader, Table Leader, and Consultant in the subject of Comparative Government from 1988 to 2005.
Bill was an active member of Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church, and had served as an ordained Deacon.
Visitation will be held Friday, December 21, at Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church from 5:30-7 p.m. A memorial service will be held in the church sanctuary on Saturday, December 22, 2012 at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Dr. Kyle Reese officiating.
the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Bill’s memory to Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church, The Bolles School, or a Parkinson’s disease research foundation.
Words of comfort can be left at www.hardage-giddenshendricksave.com
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home 4115 Hendricks Ave. Jacksonville, FL 32207. (904) 346-3808.
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