William Carl Irwin

Bill was born in Knoxville on July 31, 1964, to the late Roscoe C. Irwin Jr. and Lucille K. Irwin. He graduated from Farragut High School, where he was remembered for his dedication to the Farragut Admirals football team as a defensive lineman, earning the nickname “Bowling Ball Bill.”

Bill spent more than 40 years working in the automotive parts and repair industry, where he was well known and deeply loved for treating his customers like family and for the genuine care he showed to everyone he met. He also earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Liberty University, with a focus in Christian Counseling. Though he did not pursue a career in the field, Bill lived out its principles daily through his compassion, empathy, and the way he cared for others.

A devoted Christian, Bill’s faith guided him throughout his life, especially in his dedication to his family. His children and grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he loved them with an unconditional, steadfast, and irreplaceable love, one that mirrored the love of Christ and will forever live on in their hearts. His children remember him as a strong and supportive father, comforting, emotionally connected on a deep level, and always present with a firm yet loving “bear hug” through all of life’s ups and downs.

Known lovingly to his grandchildren as “Pepper,” Bill cherished each of his five grandchildren and took great pride in being present in their lives. The memories they shared with him will be treasured always.

Bill loved to talk and laugh, and no matter the subject, his unmatched sense of humor was never far behind. His favorite topics of conversation included the teachings of Christ, his family, and Tennessee Volunteers football, he was a true VFL (Vol for Life). He also enjoyed cars, fishing, and a wide range of movies, music, and television shows.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Richard “Rick” Wayne Irwin, and his sister, Mary Lou Kennedy.

He is survived by his beloved children: Austin Kyle Irwin; daughters Karie Irwin Burke (Jeb) and Courtney Irwin Kracik (Mykal); and his five cherished grandchildren: Eva Claire Burke, William Blake Burke, Vera Jade Burke, Elaina Maeve Burke, and Theo Michael Kracik. He is also survived by his brothers Steve Flynn and Mike Flynn (Kathy); sisters Tina Flynn Newman (Charlie) and Pam Irwin Freitag; and very special cousins Becky Goin, Todd Goin (Tracy), and Wendy Goin, whose fiancé, Donnie Cogburn, preceded her in death.

Receiving of Friends will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Berry Highland West, 9913 Sherrill Blvd., Knoxville, Tennessee 37932. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 1:00 p.m. Family and friends will reconvene at 3:00 p.m. at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery, 5315 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, Tennessee 37919 for interment.

Bill Irwin ”Bowling Ball, Daddy, Pepper” will be remembered for his faith, his humor, and the love and kindness he showed to everyone who knew him. A genuine lover of life, he was taken far too soon, but his legacy of laughter, devotion, and love will live on in all who were blessed to know him.