William Porter "Bill" Rhudy III

Born on December 31, 1955, in Penn Yan, New York, he was the son of the late William P. Rhudy, Jr. and Betty Jean Andrews Rhudy.

Bill is survived by his partner, Dinah Arnott; his son, William Porter Rhudy IV, daughter-in-law April Rhudy, and their son, William Porter Rhudy V; and his son, Nick Rhudy, daughter-in-law Heather Rhudy, and their children, Katelynn, Braxton, and Remington.

A lifelong educator, mentor, and servant to others, Bill earned his Master’s Degree in College Administration from Syracuse University in 1981. He began his professional career in higher education and athletics, where he made a lasting impact on countless students and athletes.

From 1981 to 1987, Bill served at St. Ambrose College in Davenport, Iowa, as Dean of Students and coach of the women’s golf team. He later became Vice President of Student Life at Marian College in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, serving from 1987 to 1997. During his time at Marian, he founded the men’s golf program and led the team to six conference championships and three appearances in the NAIA National Championships. In recognition of his contributions and leadership, Bill was inducted into the Marian College Hall of Fame in 2016.

Bill truly loved participating in, teaching, and watching sports of all kinds, with a special passion for golf and basketball. His enthusiasm for athletics extended far beyond the game itself, as he generously shared his knowledge and love of sports with others throughout his life. He also proudly served as an announcer and name reader for women’s college basketball, a role he greatly enjoyed and one that reflected his deep appreciation for the sport and its athletes.

Bill continued his work in student leadership and athletics at Manchester College, where he served as Dean of Students from 1998 to 2004 while also coaching the men’s golf team.

One of Bill’s greatest joys was spending time in nature and sharing those experiences with his family. A proud Eagle Scout, he carried the values of scouting; dedication, perseverance, leadership, and service throughout his life, shaping the strong work ethic for which he was so well known. He took great pride in helping his son Nick also achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, a meaningful accomplishment that reflected the close bond they shared and the values Bill worked to instill in his family.

Bill also cherished coaching youth ice hockey during his sons’ younger years, finding great fulfillment in mentoring and encouraging them both on and off the ice.

Later in life, Bill answered a calling he had felt drawn to for many years and entered funeral service, dedicating himself to caring for families during some of their most difficult moments. After obtaining his Funeral Service License, he served faithfully as a funeral director and advanced planning specialist with Whitten Funeral Homes. Through his compassion, professionalism, and steady guidance, Bill helped thousands of families make thoughtful arrangements and prepare for the future with dignity and care. The work he provided will help families for many years to come ease their minds at the most difficult days in their lives.

Bill was also a devoted member of Christiansburg Presbyterian Church, where he faithfully shared his time and talents through service on various committees. Deeply dedicated to the church and its congregation, he also served as a lay reader, helped care for the church grounds by cutting the grass, and played an important role in creating the church’s scatter garden. His steadfast commitment and willingness to serve reflected both his faith and his love for his church community.

While he was known for his hard work and dedication to his family, his church and all those around him, Bill loved getting his time to rest and spending time at Dinah's home on the weekends which he lovingly called "The Southern Palace".

He will be remembered for his compassion, quiet strength, and unwavering commitment to helping others. Whether mentoring students, coaching athletes, supporting families, or serving his church, Bill’s life was marked by kindness, integrity, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of those around him.

There will be a memorial service for Bill on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 11am at Christiansburg Presbyterian Church (107 W Main St, Christiansburg, VA 24073) officiated by Pastor Allison Unroe.

To submit condolences online, please visit www.whittentimberlake.com.