Bill Nixon

Louis William “Bill” Nixon was born on October 6, 1940, in Phoenix, Arizona, the youngest of three children to Ralph Waldo and Bess Stradley Nixon. He passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with his daughter, Sarah Nixon Wolfswinkel, by his side.

Bill attended North High School and Central High School, graduating with the Class of 1959. A gifted athlete, he was active in multiple sports, with a particular passion for varsity track and basketball. He grew up on horse property along North 16th Street, where he developed a lifelong love for animals. He continued his education at Phoenix College and later graduated from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, working in construction throughout his college years—a foundation that would shape his career. Bill went on to build a successful career constructing custom luxury homes throughout Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley. Outside of his work, he pursued many passions, including owning and racing thoroughbred horses in Arizona and California. He also enjoyed restoring classic cars, especially the iconic 1963 split-window Corvette.

A devoted son, Bill remained in the Phoenix area throughout his life, caring for his parents until their passing. Above all, he was most proud of his family. With his wife, Jayne Mariot Kerr, he raised three children: Sarah Nixon Wolfswinkel, Mark Nixon, and Rick Baldwin. He is also survived by his five grandchildren—Vivienne, Elizabeth, and Reagan Wolfswinkel, and Jake and Benjamin Baldwin—and his great-grandson, Theo Baldwin.

In his later years, Bill faced Parkinson’s Disease with remarkable strength and grace for over two decades. Even as his body declined, his mind remained sharp and engaged until the very end. During this time, his faith deepened; he began each morning reading the Bible and often spoke of his connection to the Holy Spirit and the peace it brought him.

Bill will be remembered as a man resolute in his convictions, deeply rooted in his love for family and country. A fearless capitalist at heart, he carried a firm belief that through hard work, any challenge could be overcome. He valued personal responsibility, respected those willing to put in the effort, and had little patience for anything less. At the same time, he was generous in spirit—always willing to lend a hand to those striving to better themselves. His steady, fearless presence and unwavering character left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

A graveside service will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery, 2300 West Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85009.