William Banks Christian Jr.

Bill probably should have written an autobiography, but his devotion to living life to the fullest left little time to sit down with pen and paper.

A 1961 graduate of University Military School, Bill attended Schreiner College before attending The University of Alabama. He went on to study design in Atlanta and Chicago before returning to his beloved Gulf Coast and settling in New Orleans. There, he met his lifelong partner, Norman Pharr. Together, they opened the Christian-Pharr Design Shop and spent 25 years in business before returning home to Mobile.

Bill and Norman loved their home and their neighbors in the Church Street District. Hosting Christmas carolers, Crimson Tide football parties and opening their home to friends, family and neighbors from the first parade of Mardi Gras all the way through the late hours of Fat Tuesday were all part of the joy and love Bill and Norman shared with so many.

Bill was preceded in death by his loving parents, William Banks Christian, Sr., and Katherine Dickinson Christian, whom he called “the greatest parents one could ask for,” and his partner of more than 50 magical years, Norman Michael Pharr. His brother-in-law, Russell Ladd, was a source of great strength and inspiration, and Betty Lou Tipler provided spiritual guidance to both Bill and Norman.

Bill is survived by his beloved sister, Katherine “Kay” Christian Ladd; his nephews, Gilbert Russell Ladd (Nancy), Banks Christian Ladd (Mary Carol), and Allen Hunter Ladd (Jan); and his great-nieces and great-nephews, to whom he was GUB (Great Uncle Bill), Russell Ladd, Audrey Ladd, Sadie Ladd, Virginia Ladd, Hunter Ladd (McKenzie and Blake), Katie Ladd and Genie Paulk (Jackson). Bill also considered Norman’s family his own including Norman’s sister Margaret, Claire and Steve Stegner as well and Lauren and Earl. The family would also like to extend their deepest gratitude to those who cared for Bill, including Ieisha, Jessica and all the wonderful staff at The Saad Retreat Hospice.

Those who knew Bill will remember his kindness and humor and will miss his effortless wit and effervescence.

Graveside services will be held September 23 at 11:00 a.m. at Old Springhill Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers please consider a gift to UMS-Wright Preparatory School or your favorite charity.