(From Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary)Dr. William Donald Anderson, Jr., 93, of Joplin, Missouri, formerly of Norman, Oklahoma, passed away Tuesday, June 15, 2021 in the comfort of his home.
Bill was born May 22, 1928 in Okmulgee, Oklahoma to the late William Donald Anderson, Sr. and Eva Lucille (Masters) Anderson. He was a graduate of Clinton High School. On September 5, 1950, Bill married Betty Murphy, a love that sparked during his third grade year, and together they had one daughter, Candace.
Bill served his country faithfully in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He retired with the rank of Colonel in 1988 and was also a Purple Heart recipient.
Bill attended Colorado State University and the University of Oklahoma, earning his Doctorate in Education. During his instructional career, he worked as a Counselor at Midwest City High School, then as the Assistant Superintendent for Mid-Del Public Schools. Following his move to Stillwater, Bill served as Superintendent of Stillwater School District and last served as Superintendent of Norman School District, retiring in 1985 after 20 dedicated years. Following Betty’s passing in 2015, Bill moved to Joplin to be close to his daughter, Candy.
Bill was a wonderful husband, father, and brother. He was dignified, humble, and always kind. To know him was to love him.
He is lovingly survived by his daughter, Candace Kelly, and her husband, Robert, of Joplin; his grandson, Brennen Kelly, of Joplin; and his sister, Karen Ridley, of Longview, Texas.
Graveside services with full military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 18, 2021 at the Clinton City Cemetery in Clinton, Oklahoma, with Charles Simpson officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.
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