Bill B Moody III's Obituary
Bill Burton Moody III’s adventure unexpectedly ended on May 16, 2021, signing off on a life, in his words, that was “a pretty great ride.” Born on May 26, 1963 to Bill Burton, Jr. and Louise Carol (LaRoque) in Tacoma, WA, he began life with wide smiles and an outlook of being able to achieve anything he set his mind to. Of course, the dimples that showed when he smiled helped along the way.
Bill started his long and commendable career as a medic at Shepherd Ambulance Co., all the while trying to pass the examinations to become a firefighter. It took two tries, and if you asked him he’ll tell you it’s because the guy that conducted the psychological examination was some not so nice names, but he was accepted onto the Tacoma Fire Department. Here, he had a chair with his name on it in the Battalion Chief’s office, but would be awarded for his scoldings by the end of the week. Though he ended his 32 year career with scars to show, he always said he, “would not change it because the fire department gave a lot of time to be home with his daughters.”
Growing up in Bill’s household was never dull. From his silly songs booming throughout the halls to never knowing what treats would be in the kitchen ready to be devoured when they got home from school, Sarah and Jessica never knew what to expect next. But, they knew they were always trying different foods when their dad found his favorite website - Allrecipes - and that he would always coach them in their many different sports. That’s if he wasn’t cross stitching while watching the Seahawks game, of course. There was never a night missed where he didn’t text his daughters “I love you,” and never a small accomplishment that didn’t go uncelebrated. Bill was one for over-the-top gestures, so having two daughters to embarrass by putting on the spot gave him all the joy he ever needed.
Bill will join his pre-deceased mother and grandmother on Mount St. Helens, awaiting their trip around the world. His two daughters Sarah Tomney and Jessica Cottriel, father, and brother Patrick will all be sharing the stories of when Bill would say, “hey, watch this!” The family asks that you visit the website set up for his memorial and is seeking donations for funeral costs and The Code Green Campaign, a first responder oriented mental health advocacy and education organization. But, seriously, Bill would have loved for you to grab a cup of coffee and laugh about his antics. So, please, join his family for a memorial service at 1pm on Saturday, June 19, at the Aspen Chapel at Mountain View Funeral Home, 4100 Steilacoom Blvd SW, Lakewood, WA 98499.
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