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Celebrating the life of
William Nettles Wessinger, MD
March 25, 1947 - February 20, 2025
William Nettles Wessinger, MD passed away peacefully at home, under the care of Hospice Savannah, with his wife by his side on February 20, 2025, after an extended fight with liver cancer. He was born in Columbia, SC, on March 25, 1947 to James Bryson Wessinger and Eliza Nettles Wessinger.
Bill grew up in Columbia and graduated from Dreher High School in 1965. He attended The Citadel and graduated in 1969 with a major in Chemistry. He then attended the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). After graduating with his MD degree, Bill attended flight school at Fort Rucker to become a Flight Surgeon and was awarded the Army Flight Surgeon badge. From there, the Army sent him to Incirlik Air Base in Turkey, holding the rank of Captain. After being honorably discharged, he was accepted to the Duke University School of Medicine to begin his residency in Orthopedic Surgery. Prior to starting this program, he elected to do an extra 6 month surgical residency at the University of Washington, located in Seattle. While in his 4th year at Duke, he served as Chief Resident. After finishing his residency in Orthopedics, Billelected to stay another year to get a Fellowship in Hand and Upper Extremities.
After graduating from Duke, Bill moved to Savannah to begin practice with Orthopedics Associates in 1981,(which later merged with Optim Orthopedics). He practiced orthopedics for over 23 years. He was one of the best orthopedic surgeons in the area and cared greatly for hispatients, forming lasting friendships with many of them.
Later in his life Bill went into hospital administration so he could devote more time to raising two teenagers. He was appointed Senior VP of Medical Affairs and Chief Medical Officer at Memorial Health. He was on the Quality Improvement Council and later became the Manager of Case Management. During this time, he also received his MBA in Medical Finance online at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. In 2013, Bill was elected Chatham County Coroner, a position he held for 8 years.
Bill received many accolades during his lifetime. He was elected Member of the American Society of Surgery of the Hand (ASSH), member of the Piedmont Orthopedic Society (Duke), member of the Georgia Orthopedic Society, and was elected Professor Emeritus of Surgery at Mercer University School of Medicine. Being involved in his community was incredibly important to Bill. He was a former Board Member at Curtis Cooper Primary Healthcare, former member of Eastside Rotary, former President of the Board of Directors at Riverview Health Rehabilitation. In 2011, Bill was presented with a plaque stating that he was an Honorary Member of the Ranger’s 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, in recognition of his faithful and dedicated service to the Rangers at Hunter Army Airfield. In 2012, the Coastal Empire Council of Boy Scouts of America presented him with the Outstanding Eagle Award.
In 2012 the Memorial Health Foundation chose to celebrate his 65th birthday by attempting to raise $65,000 for the refurbishment of the Emergency Department. They surpassed this goal and raised $110,000. In 2015 he was chosen by the Georgia Medical Society as a Health Care Hero. Also in 2015, Bill was honored by the Savannah Technical College Foundation Council (sponsored by Judy and Dick Eckburg) as a Community Star – an honor given to people who have made a difference in our community.
Bill was very proud of his ancestors and was a member of several societies: the Huguenot Society of South Carolina, the German Heritage Society, the French Society, a former member of the St. David’s Society, the Society of The High Hills of the Santee, SC.
He was also a member of The Oglethorpe Club, The Cotillion Club, The Century Club, and past member of The Chatham Club.
Bill was a good man. He might be the first to tell you, but he would be right, like he always was. He was known for his wicked sense of humor and the pranks he enjoyed playing on co-workers. He had an amazing memory and never forgot a name. One of his colleagues shared that Bill took care of his father when he injured his hand from a prescription exploding at his pharmacy. Bill did a delicate nerve repair and returned his hand to full function. Twenty years later when this colleague came to town to start his practice, Bill still remembered it, even which finger it was!
Bill was full of stories about The Citadel and the military, and he loved to share them. He was larger than life in more ways than one, and you always knew he would be there for you if and when you needed him. This wonderful man will truly be missed.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was most proud of raising his two children, Lucy and Will to become wonderful, intelligent, caring adults, both of whom entered the healthcare field. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 22 years, Karen KennickellWessinger, his son William Charles Drehr Wessinger and his wife Gracie, his two grandchildren Noel and Freya Wessinger (who he called nearly every day), his son-in-law Mathew Menefee, his stepdaughter Elizabeth Coolidge Rinfrette (Jeff) and their two children Logan and Ashlynn, his stepson Hermann Coolidge, III (Libby) and their son Hermann William Coolidge, IV, sister-in-law Cynthia, nephews Jim (Barbara), John (children LizAnn and James), and Rob, brother-in-law Alfred Kennickell(Terri). Bill was predeceased by his parents James and Eliza Wessinger, his brother James Wessinger, and his daughter, Lucy Wessinger Menefee.
Visitation will be Monday, February 24, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel. A Memorial service will be held on February 25, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Thomas Episcopal Church on Isle of Hope, followed by a reception in the Parish Hall. A private graveside service for the family will precede the church service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made “In Memory of William Wessinger” to St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 2 St. Thomas Avenue, Savannah, GA 31406 or to the UNC School of Nursing Lucy Wessinger Menefee Memorial Scholarship and mailed to UNC Gifts Processing, P.O. Box 309, Chapel Hill, NC 27514.
Our dear Karen. We’re so saddened to learn about Bill’s passing. You both have been in our thoughts and prayers over the last several years.. and will continue to be. Wish I was there to give you a big hug. Lots of love now and always. Susan and Danny
- Susan Kaiser, Statesboro, GA
My condolences to Dr. Wessinger's family. I was never a patient of his, but our paths crossed over the years- most recently when we both worked at Memorial Medical Center. He was friendly, engaging, and a great (and wise) conversationalist.
- Stephen Smith, Savannah, Georgia
Saddened to see Dr. Wessinger has passed. Our paths crossed when I worked at the hospital during the 80's and then again in 1990 when our three year old son broke his femur. Not only did he remember me, Dr. Wessinger provided excellent care and surgery for our son. We have always been so grateful to be able to have had Dr. Wessinger. May God be with you during this time and may you find peace through the many wonderful memories. Donna and Wes Douglass
- Douglass, Amelia Island, Florida
Karen and family, Kathryn and I are so sorry about Bill's passing. Bill was always friendly and would speak every time I would see him. He was the best Chatham Corner and took his position very serious. Bill will be missed by many people and this community. Prayers to all of the family.
- Frank & Kathryn Murray , Pembroke , GA.
Dear Karen, My sympathy for the loss of your husband. You, your family and our community have lost an accomplished man who apparently cared deeply for all. Amanda Cannon
- Amanda Cannon, Savannah, GA
Karen, Condolences to you and your family. I worked with Bill for several years at Memorial Health. He was very caring and was always available to help, when needed. His expert advice was always appreciated. I know he will truly be missed by many people. My thought and prayers are with you.
- Kimberly Byrd , Savannah, Ga.
I have fond memories of Dr. Bill. I know he will be missed. My prayers are with his family.
- Robyn Quattlebaum, Savannah, Georgia
When I joined Memorial Health in 2010, Bill was one of the first to welcome me and truly became a mentor and friend over my years working with him. I looked forward to his conversations and nuggets of wisdom that he always seemed to have. Our thoughts are with Karen and his family during this difficult time. What a wonderful legacy he has left on the Savannah community.
- Bill Lee, Savannah, Georgia
Karen and Will I am so sorry. He was the best. Teacher, mentor, doctor, friend. I miss him dearly. I Wish I could have spent more years working and learning from him. Such a great man
- ILA Hinchberger, Sav, Ga
A candle has been lit!
Sending Dr. Wessinger’s family much love and peace. We are very blessed to have known him …. So dedicated and caring.. a true servant of God. I had the pleasure of knowing him over the years from Orthopedic Associates to Memorial Health.
- Kelly Hunt, Savannah, GA
I'm so sorry to hear of Dr. Wessingers passing. He was called in for emergency surgery on my then 7yo daughter's foot. We had a situation with another Dr which upset me very much. He would not go into that operating room until he knew my daughter and myself were "ok". He consoled me and then took care of her. I've never forgotten that act of care and concern.
- JoAnn Cottle, Bloomingdale, GA
Bill was a great man I had the pleasure of working with him at Memorial. Bill was one of the good guys he cared about every one.
- Steven Stanic, Lake Charles, LA
R.I.P Dr. Wessinger. He was the best Doctor.Met him at Memorial hospital when i worked there. May God comfort the families hearts during this time of sorrow.
- Barbara Ann Griffin , Savannah, Georgia
So very sorry to hear of Dr. Wessinger passing. He was a very wonderful physician at MHUMC and both my husband and I were very fortunate to work with him and enjoyed working with him! Prayers and condolences to your family during this difficult time!
- Harry and Katrina Helmly, Savannah, GA
My condolences. I did not know Bill at The Citadel , but became friends through our class net and reunions. He was a charming fellow, had an amazing memory. He loved his family, Savanah and The Citadel classmates. "Fair winds and following seas," Dr. Bill
- Drew Dodenhoff , New Orleans , Louisiana
A candle has been lit!
Prayers and condolences to the family, I worked with Dr. Wessinger for many years begining when he worked on what was then 3rd Ortho at Memorial, he used to bring Lucy and Will on the unit while he worked weekends. He will be missed as a jokester!! but one dedicated to his work...he was one of the best!
- Deborah Mincey Nelson , Savannah , Georgia
I moved to Savannah in 1985 working at Memorial for over 30 years. I got to know Bill while working in PACU. He decided to like me after I yelled at him. He was an amazing MD and person. I have always admired him. My prayers are with his family, especially Will. Will, Matthew sends his prayers to you. Erin
- Erin Agudelo, Chesapeake , Virginia
Thirty years ago I fell and injured my right arm. Being the OR nurse that I was, rather than going to the ER, I walked to the OR to see if there was an orthopedist there. Dr. Wessinger happened to be walking out of the OR front door. He quickly examined my arm and walked me to radiology and had X-rays done. It was just a hairline fracture of my radius and required no treatment. I’ll never forget his kindness and prompt attention. He followed up with me in his office a couple of weeks later. Times have definitely changed and this could not happen today. I never received a bill, just his kindness and expertise. I’ve never forgotten this! They don’t make them like Dr. Wessinger anymore!
- Ellen Gay, Savannah, Georgia
My sincere condolences to Karen and the family of Bill Wessinger. I will always have fond memories of our many conversations while working Memoial Hospital together. We had many wonderful conversations about work, life and family. He was an amazing man and I am happy to have been lucky enough to know him. He has certainly left a footprint on our community that will always be remembered. He will be truly missed.
- Sherri DenmarkForbes, Savannah, Ga
Dear Dear Karen and Family, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude and admiration for the incredible impact Dr. William "Boss" Wessinger has had on my life and the lives of countless others. As a young man, I've had the privilege of learning from Dr. Wessinger's vast experience and wisdom, both in the operating room and beyond. Dr. Wessinger's dedication to teaching and developing young people is truly inspiring. His passion for sharing knowledge and expertise has created a ripple effect of positive change in our community. I've witnessed firsthand his ability to bring out the best in people, empowering them to become leaders and change-makers in their own right. Personally, I want to thank Dr. Wessinger for the guidance and mentorship he's provided me. His talks and wisdom have been invaluable, helping me navigate complex challenges and make informed decisions. His influence has extended far beyond the operating room, shaping my perspectives on politics, community engagement, and social responsibility. To the Wessinger family, I offer my deepest appreciation for sharing Dr. Wessinger's time and talents with us. His selflessness and commitment to the greater good are a testament to the values and love that your family embodies. Dr. Wessinger, I'm honored to call you my mentor and friend. Thank you for being an extraordinary role model and for inspiring me to make a positive difference in the world. With love and gratitude, Alderman Detric Leggett
- Alderman Detric Leggett , SAVANNAH, Georgia
Ms. Karen: It is with mine and my family's deepest sympathies that I write this. Gene and Katherine loved you both so very much. My memories of you and Bill on the dock and talking across the fence are not only some of the fondest but most cherished memories that I have. You and your family have been a part of my life from the day I was born. Whenever I was able to come visit every time I saw you and Bill you were smiling or laughing about something. Usually the trouble Herman and I were getting into or out of. Wishing I could give you and everyone a big ole hug. With all our love, The Clausen & Tanner Families
- David Clausen, Wink, Texas
I’m so sorry to hear this sad news. Bill was a man for all seasons: a consummate physician, a gentleman, a husband and father, and a respected community leader. I will miss my pleasant talks with him. He always had a smile on his face and always had something meaningful to say.
- Richard Schulze, Savannah, GA
Couldn't be sadder to hear this! One of my favorite people and as fine a person as he was a surgeon! Go with God!!!
- Bill Edwards, Savannah, GA
Bill, thank you for looking out for me when I was at Memorial for hip surgery. You were the best. You will be missed. Bob and Bonnie
- Robert and Bonnie Dixon, Savannah , Georgia
I was deeply saddened to hear of Dr Wessinger’s passing. As an orthopedic surgeon, he earned the respect of both his patients and his fellow physicians. Unlike many in physician administration, he never lost sight of what it meant to be on the front lines of healthcare. He was a steadfast advocate for those of us in the trenches, from patient care techs to nurses and doctors and his unwavering support was both recognized and deeply appreciated. May he rest in peace
- Lord, Savannah, Ga
Dear Karen, I am so ,sorry to hear about the loss of Bill. Muff and my thoughts are with you in this difficult time. Bill was the complete physician- knowledgeable, skillful, and compassionate. Bill ( The Colonel -as he was called by the residents ) was an excellent, committed, hard working Duke resident and fellow. He was very loyal to our program and the Piedmont Orthopedic Society. We shall send out his obituary to our 800 Piedmont members who always appreciated his attendance , comments and humor at the Annual Meeting.He will really be missed. Lots of Love, Jim and Muff Karen, sorry to contact you in this manner, but I have no other contact info on you.
- Jim Uraniak, Durham, NC 27712
Karen, My condolences to you and your family. Bill was a great doctor, a great man, and a great friend. I will miss him. Dow Hoffman
- Dow Hoffman, Savannah, Georgia
I am saddened to learn of Dr. Wessinger’s passing. It was my good fortune to work with him for a number of years at Memorial Health. He will long be remembered as one of the giants, the bests to grace those halls and touch so many lives.
- Dana C Myers, Savannah, Georgia
Dr Bill W. was one of a kind and he will be missed by many. Great Trauma Ortho Surgeon and didn't take any bull from anyone. He was a man of laughter and very funny. I use to tease him about that old white diesel Mercedes. He backed me up on many occasions in the Trauma Room. I'll never forget him. I'm sad to see his passing. My prayers to all the family and the people he touched with his life here on earth. Rest in Peace Sir Doc.
- J. HARVEY / Lifestar Flight Medic, Savannah, Ga
My sincere condolences to the Wessinger Family. I met Bill while working with the Savannah Police Department. Over the years he was a good friend and doctor to a family member and to myself. I appreciated his friendship and expertise as an Orthopedist. I’m sure he will be missed. Millie White
- Millie White, Durango, Colorado
Dr. Wild Bill Wessinger was a great surgeon. I enjoyed working in the O.R. with him many years. He also performed 2 surgeries on my hands as well. When I asked was he going to allow me to go to sleep or have a block for my procedure he said no, you have to stay awake and assist me with your other hand! My sympathy to his family. I will be praying for them during this difficult time.
- Bonnie Mc, Rincon, Ga
I met Dr Wessinger in the emergency room in 1992 he saved my thumb and part of my hand may God bless him and his family
- Terrell New, Pembroke, ga
Dr.Wessinger will truly be missed by the Memorial and Encompass Rehabilitation Staff
- Penny H Brown, Savannah, Georgia
Dear doctor and dear man. Heaven is home now to an earthly champion who genuinely cared for and championed for patients, including me!
- Sandy Traub, HINESVILLE, GA
I knew Dr. Wesinger through the hospital. I also was a patient of his at one time as was my son. he truly had a great sense of humor and was very good at patient relationships. he was truly one of the good guys in medicine
- Susan Worthington , Savannah , Ha
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Visitation
- 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Mon, February 24, 2025
- Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
-
7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive (map)
Savannah GA 31406 - 912-352-7200
- Memorial Service
- 11:00 am on Tue, February 25, 2025
- St. Thomas Episcopal Church
-
2 St. Thomas Ave. (map)
Savannah GA 31406