William Cannon Dance

William Cannon Dance passed away on June 11, 2024, in Houston, TX, while on a business trip. He was born July 2, 1993, in Athens, GA, to Thomas and Susannah Dance. He briefly lived in New Orleans, LA, and grew up in Winter Park, FL. He attended Park Maitland School, Trinity Preparatory School, Winter Park High School, and Clemson University where he was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. Will remained in the upstate area, eventually residing in Greenville, SC.

At the time of his death, he was an impactful member at Stark RFID, an IT software company where he serviced the LIV Golf tour; however, neither his work nor his education defined him. Will was truly multifaceted and instinctively accomplished in so many areas. Throughout his youth, he was an active member at St. Michael’s Boy Scout Troop 200 where he attained Eagle Scout rank. He participated in numerous high adventure experiences that included leading a crew of scouts on a rigorous multi-day primitive expedition through Philmont Scout Ranch. He drew energy from being in nature through activities like boating, hiking, navigating white water, paddling still waters, fishing, and sleeping under the stars. Will felt deep affection for music and was a talented musician. There was no instrument he could not pick up and play – stringed, wind, keyboard, percussion, or electronic. He performed with the band Sloan Street Groove while at Clemson and continued to perform with other local area musicians. He became a pilot and loved flying planes. Will was an outstanding chef, constructing fabulous creations from scratch for others. He circled the globe more than once, not only with his work, but also on adventurous trips with friends and family. Motorcycling uncharted areas of Southeast Asia and bear hunting in Alaska serve as examples of his approach to breaking new ground in his explorations. An inventive and effective problem solver, there was nothing broken or inoperable that he could not fix, whether mechanical or process oriented.

Will cared more for others than he did for himself. He regularly led individuals and teams of all types to successful outcomes and always gave them full credit for their success. His kindness, understanding, humility, and selflessness made him a special friend to so many who were drawn to his calm, comforting nature. Having successfully accomplished what he was put on Earth to do, he has now been called home. He will be sorely missed; however, his short life touched so many others, and his spirit will continue to serve as a beautiful example of the peace and love of God for those who encountered him.

He is survived in death by his parents Tom and Susannah and his sister Sarah Morgan Eddy and her husband Grant Eddy. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles: Sarah Beth Lankford (Todd), Ben Snead (Catherine), Morgan Snead (Evans), Howard Johnson, Richard Dance, and Fred Dance. He also leaves behind many cousins: Thomas Lankford (Allie), Drew Lankford (Kelly), Tillman Snead, Lizzie Nicholson (Henry), Charlotte Snead, Anna Snead, Liza Snead, Matthew Dance and Thomas Dance. And he leaves behind his girlfriend Emily Barrett, their precious dog Maggie, and many other close friends who will miss him dearly. A memorial service for him will be held Friday, June 21, at All Saints Church at three o’clock in the afternoon. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to All Saints Church, 338 E Lyman Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789, or a charity of the donor’s choice.