Mr. William O'Neil Bethel, Jr. didn't just live, he grooved through life with soul, style and a deep sense of duty. Born on May 19, 1954, he was the beloved son of William O. Bethel, Sr. and Dalia Casellas Bethel. He was born and grew up in Tampa, Florida, where he graduated from Chamberlain High School in 1972. In the mid-1970s, William answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. His time in uniform reflected the same loyalty and grit he carried throughout his life. William worked at Barnett Bank and various law firms during his professional career. He was known for bringing his unique charm to each company he worked for. Whether cracking jokes in the break room or building chemistry with coworkers, he made every space better just by being in it. William's soundtrack was pure rhythm, blues and soul. He vibed with the sounds of funk music, cracked up to the jokes of Richard Pryor and cruised in Cadillacs like royalty. He loved football, Latin cuisine and being around family and friends. William's life was marked by deep devotion to family. He was first married to Carolyn "Cookie" Bethel on June 14, 1974, and together they welcomed daughters Tifany Bethel and Tia Bethel. He later married Lori Bethel on October 26, 1984, and was blessed with a son, William Bethel III. On May 23, 1998, William married Barbara Bethel, with whom he shared many joyful years.

William was preceded in death by his brother, Juan (Woody) Bethel; and sisters, Stephanie Bethel Solomon and Janice Young. He is survived by his children, Tifany Bethel, Tia Bethel, William Bethel III; sister, Ingrid Bethel; sister-in-law, Gloria Bethel; nieces, Andrea Potter (Rico, Sr.), Nichole Solomon, Juana LaFaye Bethel, and Juana Bethel Jones (Joshua); nephews, Juan Bethel, Jr. and Julian Bethel.

He leaves behind a legacy carried by his grandchildren, Dorian Ferrell, Tabari Davis, William O'Neil Bethel IV and Liam Daniel Bethel; great-grandchildren, Nevaeh Ferrell and Dash Ferrell; great-nieces, Stephanie Potter, Shayna Potter, Dalia McCloud, Cynthia McCloud, Markayla Hayes, Mariyah Hayes, Daia Bethel and Jordan Jones; great-nephews, Rico Potter, Jr., Saivonne Potter, Javon Johnson, Jr., and Juan-Roosevelt Jones; and great-grandnieces, Amiya and Aubrey Potter. William O'Neil Bethel, Jr. will be remembered as a devoted father, loving grandfather, cherished brother and uncle, and a loyal friend to many. He will also be remembered for his sharp wit and even sharper wardrobe. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, style and authenticity. The world feels a little less cool without him-but his spirit lives on in every person who had the privilege of knowing him.