William Frazier "Bill" Wayland of Andersonville, passed peacefully on November 9, 2025 at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in Knoxville. He was surrounded by his family who adored him and who are still not quite sure how the world is supposed to turn without his jokes, laughter, and love.

Born January 12, 1942, Bill spent his childhood in Knoxville, TN. He graduated from Carter High School in 1960 after helping lead the 1959 Carter Hornets to an undefeated and untied season — something he never let anyone forget. He attended Indiana University on a football scholarship before proudly serving four years in the United States Air Force, including a year stationed in Thule, Greenland.

After returning home, Bill worked for National Linen Service before finding his true calling as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service, from which he retired. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason, a Shriner, and a proud member of the Sons of the Confederacy, the Tuck-A-Hoe Rabbit Hunters Club, and the Old Car Club.

An avid outdoorsman, Bill loved to hunt, fish, and spend time on the water. Whether he was in a boat, at a ball game, or telling a tall tale, he lived life with a sparkle in his eye and laughter on his lips.

Bill was a long-time member and ordained deacon of First Baptist Church in Andersonville, where he faithfully served for many years — and where he was best known by many children as the jolliest Santa Claus around.

While Bill will be remembered for his deep faith and that mischievous grin that meant he was about to say something funny (and probably slightly inappropriate), it was his deep love of family that was the cornerstone of who he truly was. His 58-year marriage to the love of his life, Betty, is a testament to the steadfast love, patience, and unfailing care that relationships are all about. He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and love — the kind of treasures that only a life well-lived can give.

Bill Wayland was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Jackson Wayland, Sr. and Argus Artilla Huffaker Wayland, as well as his brother, Benjamin Jackson Wayland, Jr. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Betty Jo Harris Wayland; his daughters, Melissa Wayland and Lori Wayland; his granddaughter, Bailee Wayland and great-grandson, Jameson Wayland; sisters Bobbie Wayland and Ann (Bill) Trivett; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss his quick wit, big laugh, and even bigger heart.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 from 3:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Holley Gamble Funeral Home with a service to follow at 6:30 p.m. Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you share a story or a laugh in Bill's honor — because that's certainly how he'd want to be remembered.

Holley Gamble Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Wayland family. www.Holleygamble.com .