William Wyatt Leavell

William (Bill) Wyatt Leavell Jr. was born in Dallas to Bill and Mary Ruth Leavell on May 24, 1954. As a third generation Dallasite, Bill found himself drawn to Lubbock to attend Texas Tech University. It was there that he met and married Nan Blake in 1979.

Bill enjoyed a career of almost 40 years in banking. He was multi-talented, having worked on some memorable advertising campaigns and forging strong bonds with his clients whom he deeply cared about. He found lifelong friendships through many civic connections. Bill was active in his church and served on countless community boards throughout the years. He loved Lubbock and was always willing to serve when he thought he could help his community.

Living in Lubbock and raising his children here was very special to Bill. He was grateful that his son and daughter chose to raise their families here as well.

Bill’s long goodbye allowed him to spend precious time and share many memories with his grandchildren. Even as his health was declining, he would garner all his energy to host sleepovers, game nights, and treasure hunts.

He loved to entertain them with the stories from his childhood as well as some of his personal accomplishments. They were most amazed by his competitive eating prowess, including pancake and ice cream eating victories and finishing the Big Texan challenge.

Despite his towering presence, Bill was an incredibly gentle-hearted and kind man. He deeply cared for everyone that he met, and it was apparent to all in his presence. Even when he was not feeling his best, he never complained, never stopped smiling, and never stopped working to bring joy to those around him. He was incredibly grateful to have found Nan who gave him years of happiness and unconditional love.

Bill was an inspiration to his family and will be deeply missed. He is survived by his wife Nan, his son William Wyatt Leavell III, his wife Claire, and their children William, Harrison, and Jane, and his daughter Lauren Leavell Pinkston, her husband Justin, and their children, Madison and Connor.

He died on Monday, July 28, 2025.

Bill requested any memorials to the South Plains Food Bank.