William "Bill" Dunn

William Gene Dunn, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on October 21, 2026. He will be remembered for his quick wit, generous spirit, and genuine love of people.

Born on January 19, 1966, in Dixon, Tennessee, William was raised in Vanleer alongside his sisters, Sue and Laura, and his brothers, Bobby and Mitchell. He was the son of William Gene Dunn Sr. and Earlene Canada. Though he later made Florida his home, his Tennessee roots remained an important part of his life.

In 1989, William moved to Florida and began working for Waffle House, where he built a 35-year career. He took pride in his work and valued the many connections he made with coworkers and customers on both sides of the counter. Waffle House also brought him Theresa, the love of his life. They shared 31 years together, building a family and a life filled with devotion and companionship.

William was a proud father to his four sons, Curtis, Wesley, William, and Daniel. He welcomed his daughter-in-law, Hailee, into the family and cherished his four grandchildren: Josh, Mylee, Lincoln, and Liam. They were the bright lights of his life and brought him immeasurable joy.

One of William’s best-known sayings was, “If you bought the ticket, you had to ride the ride.” The phrase reflected his belief in commitment, responsibility, and following through on the choices you make. He stood firmly by the people and principles that mattered to him, and his family could always depend on him.

Outside of work, William enjoyed fishing, playing pool, and gathering around a fire with family and friends. He valued time spent together, whether sharing a meal, telling stories, or simply enjoying one another’s company.

William leaves behind Theresa; his sons, Curtis, Wesley, William, and Daniel; his daughter-in-law, Hailee; his grandchildren, Josh, Mylee, Lincoln, and Liam; his sisters, Sue and Laura; his brothers, Bobby and Mitchell; and many others who were grateful to know him. His influence will continue through the family he loved, the values he lived by, and the moments they shared.

He lived by his word, loved his family deeply, and gave his whole heart to the people and commitments that mattered most. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and celebrate William’s life on Friday, November 6, 2026, at: Kay’s-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home 2405 Harbor Boulevard Port Charlotte, Florida 33952. Memorial Gathering: 4:00–5:00 p.m. | Service: 5:00 p.m. | Refreshments will follow the service.

In honoring William, may we carry forward his love of family, his commitment to the people he cared for, and his enduring reminder: if you bought the ticket, you had to ride the ride.