William Ronald Thorpe

William Ronald Thorpe 
April 23, 1937 – January 4, 2026

William Ronald Thorpe, lovingly known to family and friends as Bill, Billy, or Pepa, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on January 4, 2026, at the age of 88.

Bill was born on April 23, 1937, in Bay County, Florida, to Perry Thorpe and Rosa Belle Nichols. He grew up in a close-knit family with six brothers and sisters, forming lifelong bonds rooted in faith, hard work, and love.

He graduated from Bay High School in Panama City, Florida, and pursued higher education with dedication and determination. Bill began his college studies at Gulf Coast Community College in Panama City, earned his Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Auburn University, and later completed his Master’s degree in Engineering at the University of Florida—an accomplishment that reflected both his intellect and perseverance.

Bill began his professional life serving in the United States Army, after which he devoted the remainder of his distinguished career to civilian service with the United States Navy. Over the years, he held numerous leadership and technical roles, including Systems Engineer, Head Countermeasure Evaluator, System Integration Agent, Branch Head, Deputy Division Head, Division Head, Supervisory Electronics Engineer, and Head of the Undersea Warfare Systems Department at the Navy RDT&E Center. His work and leadership left a lasting impact, and his career was marked by integrity, innovation, and service to his country.

Following retirement, Bill and his beloved late wife, Iva Thorpe, fulfilled a lifelong dream by setting sail on their sailboat and exploring many of the islands of the Caribbean. After years of island hopping and adventure, Bill settled near his grandchildren in Spanish Fort, Alabama, where he embraced a slower pace of life filled with family, hiking, camping, and treasured time outdoors.

Bill was a devoted and active member of Fairhope Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon for many years. He deeply loved his church family and found great joy in weekly prayer meetings, lunch socials, and potluck Sabbaths.

He is survived by two brothers, two sisters, a daughter, a son, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews—all of whom he adored. Bill will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering faith, sense of adventure, and deep love for his family and community.

He will be forever missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 11 AM at Fairhope Seventh-day Adventist Church. 22886 US-98, Fairhope, AL 36532.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to his church home: Fairhope Seventh-day Adventist Church.

22886 US-98
Fairhope, AL 36532.