Celebrating the life of
William Thomas Humphries
March 21, 1943 - July 05, 2026
William Thomas Humphries
March 21, 1943 – July 5, 2026
William Thomas Humphries, lovingly known as Bill, passed away peacefully at his home in Savannah, Georgia, on July 5, 2026, surrounded by the family he cherished. He was 83 years old.
Born on March 21, 1943, in Norwalk, Connecticut, Bill was the son of Doris Humphries and the grandson of Alfred and Ruth Mills. He lived a remarkable life defined by curiosity, adventure, integrity, and an unwavering love for people. He never met a stranger, and his genuine warmth, infectious smile, and gift for conversation left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Whether at home or traveling to the farthest corners of the globe, Bill embraced every experience—and every person—with enthusiasm and kindness.
Bill was the devoted husband of Judith Ellen Humphries for 61 wonderful years. Together, they built a life rooted in love, partnership, and family. He was a proud father to three children—Bill, Bradley, and Amy—and was like a second father to his daughter-in-law, Lisa, and his son-in-law, John Lee. His greatest joy was his six beloved grandchildren: Davis,
Rowan, Rilee, Harrison, Brendan, and Maddie, each of whom brought immeasurable happiness to his life.
A lifelong learner, Bill graduated from Furman University, where he earned a master’s degree in chemistry. His distinguished career in the life sciences reflected both his scientific brilliance and exceptional business acumen.
Bill began his professional journey at Oak Ridge Laboratories, conducting research alongside some of the nation’s brightest scientific minds in the field of energy. He later joined Texas Gulf Sulphur Company in Aurora, North Carolina, as a bench chemist before being recruited to Johnson & Johnson, where his pharmaceutical career flourished.
At Johnson & Johnson, Bill’s talents and leadership propelled him from laboratory research in skin biology to increasingly influential business roles. Among his proudest professional accomplishments was leading the in-licensing of tretinoin (Retin-A) for Ortho Dermatologics, a milestone that significantly advanced dermatologic care. He concluded his distinguished tenure with Johnson & Johnson as General Manager for the Caribbean, where he successfully led all aspects of the business while residing in Puerto Rico.
Never one to stop building or innovating, Bill embraced entrepreneurship after his corporate career. Together with his friend and former Johnson & Johnson colleague, Jake Jacobs, he co-founded Dexell, a pioneering pharmaceutical marketing company. Under their leadership, the company grew into an industry leader before its successful acquisition.
His final professional chapter was spent alongside Tibor Sipos at Digestive Care International, where he served as President and helped expand a company dedicated to improving the lives of patients living with cystic fibrosis. Throughout every stage of his career, Bill remained committed to advancing healthcare and improving patient outcomes while mentoring colleagues and earning the respect of peers across the industry.
While Bill’s professional achievements were extraordinary, they were eclipsed only by the way he lived his life. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. He possessed an insatiable curiosity, a generous spirit, and an adventurous heart. He believed every destination held a new story, every challenge presented an opportunity, and every person deserved kindness and respect.
Bill was an avid runner and a lifelong advocate for staying active. When he could no longer run, he simply took up walking and rarely missed a day, logging nearly five miles each time he headed out. His other lifelong passion was golf—playing it, watching it, and talking about it. He shared a special bond with his son Bradley through the game, enjoying annual father-son trips to Bandon Dunes, a memorable retirement trip to Scotland to play legendary courses, and several unforgettable visits to the Masters Tournament.
Bill was also a master of the grill, a skill he proudly passed down to his children and grandchildren. He and Judy traveled extensively, including a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage walking the Camino de Santiago and numerous Viking River Cruises throughout Europe.
They were especially passionate about Italy, returning often and falling deeply in love with Tuscany.
Bill and Judy also made wonderful use of their Marriott Vacation Club ownership, traveling throughout the country and somehow always arriving at just the right time of year. Whether in Arizona, Utah, Southern California, or Massachusetts, they found perfect weather for the things they loved most: walking, practicing yoga, attending concerts, spending time with friends, and discovering great restaurants together.
Over the years, the Marriott team came to know Bill and Judy so well that Bill was invited to serve on the boards of Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas and Marriott’s Canyon Villas. There, he applied his sharp business instincts and extensive travel experience to help shape exceptional vacation experiences alongside his fellow board members and the outstanding general managers and leadership teams at both properties.
Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, leadership, integrity, generosity, and unwavering optimism that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His family will forever treasure the memories they shared and the example he set through a life lived fully, courageously, and joyfully.
His journey over the last six months was one he faced head-on, just as he approached every challenge throughout his life—with courage, grace, and determination. His family is forever grateful to Father Gabe Cummings, the Coastal Care team, especially Karly, Ray, and Charles, as well as the Hospice Savannah team, especially Dee. Their compassion, exceptional care, and genuine love for Bill were evident in every moment they shared with him.
He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of his family, friends, and the countless colleagues whose lives he touched.
A Mass and celebration of Bill’s remarkable life is being planned by the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Hospice Savannah or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Tom and I will be forever grateful for Bill and Judy's friendship. You took us into your fold and made us feel at home in Savannah 33 years ago. Bill radiated joy, humor and optimism. His consistent love and admiration for you, Judy, was all over his face, both in his smile and his gaze. We will miss him until we meet again in Heaven.
- Tom and Allison Cole, Savannah, Georgia
A candle has been lit!
Thinking of Amy, John, HT, Maddie, Judy and all of the Humphries family with heart-felt wishes during this difficult time. I hope your memories bring you all much peace and comfort. What a full and wonderful life Bill had!
- Jane Lee Comiskey, Bellingham, WA
Deeply grateful for my friendship over the years with Bill & Judy. How Marriott brought these wonderful people into my life. Grateful & heart broken all at once. Blessings to Judy & entire family for this devastating loss. Love Del
- Del Crandall , Phoenix , AZ
My sincere deepest condolences to the family for your loss. I worked with Bill at Digestive Care for many years. He was one of the hardest working, compassionate and caring people that I worked with. Sending healing prayers and comfort during this difficult time.
- Robin LaPadula, Bethlehem, PA
Bill's hole in one at Coto de Caza CC #16 South was enjoyed by us local friends! First ace in California! His genuine friendship will be missed by his fellow golfing friends! May he rest in peace!
- Dwaine Walker, Laguna Niguel, CA
To Bill's Family, We were deeply saddened to learn of Bill's passing. Bill was truly a remarkable man whose kindness, warmth, and genuine spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. During his years of service on the Board, Bill made an extraordinary contribution. He approached every discussion, decision, and challenge with thoughtfulness, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was best for others. Yet beyond his many accomplishments, it was his character that left the greatest impression. Bill always greeted people with a smile, an open heart, and a sense of humor that made every interaction memorable. We will forever cherish the many wonderful memories we shared with him. His friendship, wisdom, and positive presence enriched our lives in countless ways, and his legacy will continue to be felt for years to come. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. Bill will be greatly missed, fondly remembered, and forever appreciated. With deepest sympathy.
- Lisa Romero, Newport Beach, CA
Even though we weren't able to see Bill and Judy as much as we would have liked to we always considered them very special and dear friends. Bill was an amazing man and such a joy to be with. He always had a smile on his face and was so positive about everything. He was truly a very special person! Our love and prayers go out to Judy and the entire family. We can imagine how difficult this must be for all of you. We hope in time it becomes easier for you.
- Debbie & Jim Giannini, San Clemente , CA.
Mary and I met Bill on January 13, 2012 when the staff at a golf club in Scottsdale paired us to play a round of golf together. By the end of that round, we all realized that we had much in common and shared an abiding love for the game. Soon thereafter we met Judy, and our friendship grew to include travel, golf, anniversary dinners and more fun than we ever imagined. Throughout these years, Bill and Judy were the epitome of a loving couple, based on faith and on rock solid values. We miss him dearly and assure you that we will never forget his warm and engaging personality. Our sincere condolences to Judy, the family, and to all on this list who, like us, had the privilege to know, respect and love Bill.
- Kenneth B Watts, Spicewood, TEXAS
Dear Judy and family, we are grieving along with you over your loss of our good friend Bill and especially miss him right now as he would have been with us here in Park City for the Summer. His passing was a real surprise to us because he was always health conscious, eating well and taking his daily 5 mile walks with Judy. We met Bill and Judy on a hike in the Wasatch Mountains about 5 years ago and after hitting it off immediately we spent a lot of time together walking, attending concerts and dining. We were always sad when Judy and Bill departed a the end of the Summer and looked forward to their arrival the following year. All of our love to you, Judy and we will reach out again at a more appropriate time, Paul and Gertrud
- Paul and Gertrud Carpenter, Park City, Utah
We are saddened to hear of Bill's passing. Dad and I shared some of our most memorable times with him and Brad at our annual father/son Bandon Dunes outings that spanned 20 years. Previously, Brad and I had only met twice, both on a golf course, and decided to book a Bandon trip with our Dads, somehow knowing we would all hit it off. Over the years we looked forward to spending time with the Humphries more than playing the world class golf courses: endless laughs, long car rides, friendly competition, fun meals, and ability to share old stories, retell recent experiences and create new memories was truly special. On the most recent Bandon trip only Brad and I could make it, but Bill was still with us. After a round of golf, the shower hot water wasn't working late at night to our dismay but we were rolling in laughter at the thought of Bill raising his voice in the courtyard if he had to endure such an inconvenience – and we could clearly hear that voice in our heads! Bill and Judy also immediately connected to my Mom and Dad, despite living on opposite coasts, having visited each other's homes and sharing meals. Bill was always thoughtful as he would reach out to see how things were going, forward a joke, or share warms wishes during a holiday. He will be missed. Our warm and heartfelt condolences to Judy and the Humphries family.
- Joel ing, Seattle, WA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200