William "Bill" Oliver

William “Bill” Oliver, 76, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away on July 3, 2026. Born February 2, 1950, in Louisville, Kentucky, Bill lived a life marked by loyalty, strength, a deep love for his family, and a lighthearted humor full of dad jokes that could brighten a room.

Bill was a graduate of Bishop David High School in Louisville, class of 1968, and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisville. A veteran of the United States Army, Bill served in Vietnam.

For 41 years, Bill shared a devoted marriage with his wife, Janet. His natural ability to remain calm and collected in any situation was the anchor of the home. There is nothing that Bill cherished more in his life than his wife, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, children, grandchildren, who affectionately called him “PaPa”, and of course his dog Roxy (who will still be allowed on the couch). His family was everything to him and he would go to the ends of the earth for them - for better or worse, he rarely said “no”. Regardless of the situation, Bill’s selfless, kind-hearted, and humorous spirit always shone through.

Bill loved all sports, especially the New York Giants and UofL Athletics. He also enjoyed playing golf, including a stint as a semi-pro in Putt-Putt.

Bill’s life was a gift - humble, compassionate, and filled with laughter and love. He was a role model for courage and resilience after facing cancer twice over the last three years and fought hard to the very end. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friends who were better for knowing him, and the countless ways his steady presence made life brighter.

Bill is survived by his wife, Janet Oliver; his son, Sam Oliver (Caitlin); his daughter, Kate Ray (Fletcher); his grandchildren, LuLu Oliver, Hank Oliver, Teddy Ray, and Wells Ray; his brother, Jerry Oliver (Linda); and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his sister, Donna Oliver, his mother, Jean Oliver, and his father, Hank Oliver.

Visitation will be held at Arch L. Heady and Son at Westport Village, (7410 Westport Rd) on July 8, 2026, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, followed by a Funeral Service at 1:00 pm. Bill will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery (1600 Newburg Rd).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Spina Bifida Association of Kentucky (SBAK) by visiting https://spinabifidakentucky.org/donate.