William "Bill" R. Fugitt

2/7/30 – 10/24/23

Born in Barberton, OH

Son of Harry and Florence Fugitt

Bill Fugitt passed at home in peace with his family at his side. Bill leaves behind to cherish his forever memories and love, his beloved wife of 73 years Waneta Fugitt, his three grandchildren residing in Florida Samuel Cone III (wife Noel Cone), Elijah Cone, and Kalyn Cone Lemily (husband Frank Lemily), two nieces Pam Smith (resident Georgia) and Cindy Long (resident Alabama), along with five great grandchildren Hayleigh Cone, Tanner Cone, Autumn Cone (arriving February 2024), Wesley Cone, Wyatt Cone, and Mackenzie Cone. Bill was preceded in death by his two sisters Audrey Watson and Harriet Smith, and by his daughter Barbara Jo Fugitt.

Bill was a proud papa who enjoyed and loved his family. Bill loved to travel, fish, golf, and to watch the Florida Gators. He started his work life early, at the age of 12, on a milk route during WWII. He then went to work at a local steel mill for a short while before starting his lifelong career in law enforcement. Bill worked eight years with the Ohio Highway Patrol, and it was during this time he was drafted into the US Army to serve in the Korean War. After a safe and successful 22-month journey overseas to serve our country, Bill returned home and him and Waneta moved to Florida to raise horses and cattle. After they completed the move, Bill furthered his education at the University of Central Florida, then attended Rollins College for a master's degree in criminal justice and he even attended the FBI National Academy. Bill started with the Ocala Police Department in 1960; with much recognition, he retired as Commander of the Police Department after 29 years of service.

Bill enjoyed many great years of retirement. He golfed and traveled around the world with his wife and family visiting many countries and US states making may memories to last them all a lifetime. Bill Fugitt was always proud and happy to serve others; he will truly be missed by all.

A visitation for William will be held Wednesday, November 1, 2023, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 5740 South Pine Ave, Ocala, FL 34480. Following the visitation will be a graveside service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens, 5740 South Pine Ave, Ocala, FL 34480.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ForestLawnOcala.com for the Fugitt family.