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William Stanton Obituary

William (Bill) Stanton

July 2, 2025

William (Bill) Stanton, age 71, of Johnson City, passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at Johnson City Medical Center after an extended illness.

He was a native of Elizabethton Tennessee and the son of Robert (Bob) and Beverly (Tootsie) Williams Stanton, Elizabethton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers John Stanton (Gaye), Samuel Stanton and Sister Jane Stanton Hardin.

Survivors include wife Donna Stanton, Step daughters, Sarah Presnell (Ryan) and Rachel Lyons (Dickie). Step grandchildren Ryan, Caroline and Cole Presnell, Seth and Leah Lyons. Nieces and nephews, Justin Stanton. Julie Workman, John Wagner (Freda), Nathan Hardin, Aaron Hardin and a special cousin, Ric Heaton.

Bill was a graduate of Elizabethton High School Class of 1972 and University of Tennessee 1976 with a degree in history.

After graduation, Bill taught history at Citrus High School in Inverness, Florida and Science Hill High School, Johnson City, Tennessee where he taught AP US History and a special course entitled War and American Society. He was a master story teller who inspired a generation of students, many of whom actually became history teachers and historians themselves. While at Science Hill he earned the honor of Teacher of the Year. In 2011 he retired to Charleston, South Carolina to become a tour guide with Charleston Walking Tours where he shared his passion for all things history with people from all over the world. He was the original curator of the "Alleys and Hidden Passages Tour".

In honor of Bill's wishes, no formal service will be held. Those who would like to make a tribute in his memory may do so by donating to Elizabethton Carter County Animal Shelter.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Johnson City Press from Jul. 3 to Jul. 5, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for William Stanton

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J. Fields

July 9, 2025

Mr. Stanton was my favorite teacher ever. His inspiration helped me find my passion for history, which eventually led to two degrees in art history. He made history come alive with his storytelling. I have often thought of him fondly over the years, and am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. Sending the deepest condolences to his family and close friends, I know he will be terribly missed.

Ted Imes

July 5, 2025

Mr Stanton was the first teacher that truly engaged and inspired me. Thank you for your generous gift of learning.

Jim Heaton

July 5, 2025

Bill was a great teacher with a gift in relating to students! He was a "team player," a co-worker that was a friend! His sense of humor and personality were traits that made him an enjoyment to be around. His classroom was a joy to visit! I knew Bill´s family when I worked at Elizabethton High School and had the honor to work with him at Science Hill. Bill Stanton is a most positive memory from my years in education! Jim Heaton

CS Faniola

July 5, 2025

Such fond memories of the History Department and Mt. Olympus at SHHS while he taught there. One of my daughter´s favorite teachers!

Sandy Babel

July 4, 2025

I worked with Bill at Science Hill. Not only was he a coworker, he was a friend who made everyone feel important. He was a wonderful teacher and was admired by everyone who was blessed to know him. He touched many lives with his knowledge and genuine care
for others. I loved our talks and
laughs. He made the world a better place. I am praying for his family.

Ravin

July 4, 2025

My heart goes out to Bill Stanton´s family. A life changing person and educator. Thank you for all the passion you put into the learning of others.

Sean Murphy

July 4, 2025

Mr. Stanton was a terrific teacher. I was in his first class of War and American Society in the early 90s. He was one of the biggest influences for me getting my first degree in history. He'll be missed

Ashleigh Moyer

July 3, 2025

What an amazing teacher. I had Mr. Stanton for AP History circa 1997. He was funny and captivating and one of the few teachers I remember. So glad to see he carried his love of history of forward into a vibrant retirement

Jordan Barnett class of 2010

July 3, 2025

Mr. Stanton was my teacher from 2008-2010. I was a very anxious student and wasn´t great in school but Mr. Stanton made me fall in love with history, I hung onto every word he said- he didn´t read from a book, he spoke as if he had been on the battlefield. He is the sole reason my son is in love with history- bc of Mr Stanton´s passion. I am heart broken and am praying for his family.

Amber Barrowman

July 3, 2025

The entire reason I got a history degree and love of history to this day! My favorite teacher ever, even after 2 degrees.

Donna Beckett

July 3, 2025

I am so sorry to hear of Bill´s passing.i worked with Bill at SHHS. He was a great teacher and loved by his students. He was a friend to all his co workers. He had a way to make you fall in love with history. He will be missed.

Scarlett and Randy Coapstick

July 3, 2025

I am so very sorry to hear of Bill´s passing. What an extraordinary teacher he was. If you walked in his classroom during one of his lectures, you just sat and listened until he finished. I do not think, in working with Bill, that I remember one student who was not captivated by his teachings. Bill was a good friend while working at SHHS. We ran into him in Charleston and a few places in JC. He will not be forgotten. Our deepest sympathy to all his friends, family, and former students.

Sheila & son, David Bray

July 3, 2025

Donna, and all of your family, I worked with Bill at SHHS for 10+ years. He was an awesome history teacher and story teller.
You all are in our thoughts and prayers. May God surround each of you in His arms of comfort and peace.
Sheila & son, David Bray

Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results

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