William Branch Fordham

Billy was born to Edward and Ruby Fordham on June 2, 1947.

Billy is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Kathy Fordham, 4 daughters, Cynthia Fordham Propes (Roger), Barbara Blackman (Delroy), Beverly McCollum (John), Angela Cortes (Teyo) and 1 son, Jason Williams (Amy).

He was also an amazing “Papa” to 17 grandkids and 15 great-grandkids. He loved his many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was also affectionately known by many as “Daddy William”.

He served his country in the United States Air Force, raising to the rank of Staff Sergeant. He would later use that training to build his own electrical business, Fordham’s Electrical Service and a reputation above most others.

He was committed to his faith in God and took pride in his role as a Deacon of Spring Hope O.F.W.B. Church.

His passions in life revolved around doing for others, whether it was cooking, helping to fix something or spending hours explaining how to do it. He took the utmost enjoyment in helping others with problems.

He loved his Westerns, John Wayne, old country, gospel and bluegrass music; tinkering on items to fix, shopping on Amazon and most of all, sitting next to his wife every day, just talking or playing solitaire on his phone while they enjoyed each other’s company.

He is preceded in death by his Father, Edward H. Fordham, Mother Ruby Gottschalk, 1 sister, Ann Collins, two infant siblings and his infant son.

Memorial service will be held at Spring Hope F.W.B on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 11:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 on his behalf.

Cotten Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Fordham family.