Willie Marvin Hart

Bill was born in Notasulga Alabama, a small town just northwest of Montgomery, Alabama, on February 1, 1941. In 1958, he graduated from Middletown High School in Ohio at the age of 17.

As soon as he was of age, Bill enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served, as he would always say, for a total of 20 years, 3 months and 18 days. A highlight of his service was serving as a Maintenance Crew Chief on the B52 Stratofortress, where he ensured the plane’s readiness and success in flying many missions over Vietnam during the Vietnam War. His impressive knowledge of the B52 was extensive and he had many interesting stories about the B52, as though it were one of his children.

After being stationed at numerous USAF bases throughout the United States and overseas, Bill retired with distinction from active duty on August 31, 1978. The last base at which he was stationed, RAF Alconbury, was especially sentimental, as that was where he met his future wife, Kathleen. Bill was honored to have served his country for all those years.

Outside of his service, Bill was known for his love of music. He was a music buff in many genres, including Jazz, Soul, Classical, and Disco. He was also known to carry a tune while singing along to many soulful hits. Bill was also a great poker player, who could definitely keep a poker face. He coached little league baseball at many of the bases where he was stationed, as well as being a great pitcher on many of the bases’ softball teams.

Bill was predeceased by his father, Marvin Hart, and his mother, Overa Hart

Bill is survived by his his wife of 49 years, Kathleen Benner-Hart. From his first marriage, he is survived by his Son, Terrance (Terry) Anthony Hart and his Grandson, Shawn Hart.

He is also survived by his stepsons, Karl White (Caroline, Grandchildren Oliver and Hannah); Kurt White (Zuzanna, Grandchildren, Victor, Valentina, Aurelia, Leo and Amelia); Scott Benner (Airika and Grandchildren, Izabella, Claire (Josh, Miles), Savannah (Anthony, baby due in August)).

He is also survived by his Brothers, Hoyt, Donald and David Riley;

Sisters, Marquette, Rae Jean Riley and Willa Dean (Penny) Vinson; Sister-in-laws, Helen Transue (nephew, Darren, Megan, and children, Owen, Lucy and Lily); Carol Allison and Mick Mead (Niece, Alexandra) and a whole host other cousins, nieces and nephews. Bill’s love for his family and children was paramount. Being known as Pop Pop, he could often be found trying to get a laugh out of his grandchildren, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

As was typically Bill, there is to be no pomp and circumstance. In lieu of a planned service, there will be an upcoming celebration of his life. On a date to be determined (so that out of town family members can attend), we will celebrate our love for and our memories of Bill on Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota, Florida. Bill has requested that his ashes be sprinkled in the Gulf of Mexico. As Bill’s drink of choice was Scotch, we toast him today and will raise a glass at his celebration, as he takes his eternal journey. Till we meet again, sweet dreams.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/fort-lauderdale-cremation for the Hart family.