William J. Elzer, Sr.

William (Bill) Elzer, Sr., age 90, of Fairfield Glade, TN, unexpectedly passed away at Cumberland Medical Center on July 10, 2023. Bill was born on March 13, 1933, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, son of the late Joseph Elzer and Christine (Markham) Elzer. After his honorable discharge from the US Army, Bill returned home to his wife and baby daughter. He attended night school where he received a degree in Mechanical Design Drafting. He was then employed by Westinghouse EMD for over 30 years and received several quality achievement awards and one US patent. Bill is survived by Shirley, his loving wife of 70 years, his beloved daughter, Deborah Lightfoot (Richard); son Gregory Elzer (Debra); 7 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren (with one more on the way); sister, Darlene Gallagher (James); daughters-in-law Angela Elzer and Brenda Elzer; sister-in-law, Sally Defino; and brother-in-law, Paul Henrick; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his sons, William Elzer, Jr. and Kenneth Elzer; sister, Barbara Henrick; brothers-in-law, John DeMatty and Phil Defino; sister-in-law, Evelyn Keller (Chuck); and parents-in-law, John and Evelyn (Shallenberger) DeMatty. After retiring, Bill and his wife traveled over the U.S. looking for a retirement home. After a year they found Fairfield Glade and have enjoyed 25 years fishing, swimming, dancing, and making many new friends. During this time, they escaped the cold to a special Caribbean Island, Bequia, and continued swimming, dancing, and making lifelong friends from all over the world. A Private Family visitation will be held with burial in Green Acres, Crossville, TN. Arrangements and Care provided by Bilbrey Funeral Home and Cremation Service.