William B. Stough

Passed: November 11, 2019

Obituary

William B. Stough, age 83 of Goodyear, AZ died November 11, 2019. He was born November 4, 1936 in Terre Haute, IN, the only child born to Ernest and Margaret (Scott) Stough. He graduated from Glenn High School in Seelyville, IN and studied business and marketing at Oklahoma State University and Indiana State University. He served in the US Air Force as a crew chief for F-100 jet fighters. Bill always felt that the Air Force molded him to be a more responsible individual. After his honorable discharge, he began selling advertising for a television station. A born leader with high standards and a strong work ethic, he rose through the ranks, eventually becoming President and General Manager. His career took him to CBS affiliates WISH-TV channel 8 in Indianapolis, IN (three times), WANE-TV in Ft. Wayne, IN, KTSP-TV channel 10 in Phoenix, AZ, and WGME-13 in Portland, ME.

Bill was highly respected by his family and peers. He was a bottom-line guy, practical and balanced in his approach to life. A man of few words, he quietly listened to absorb the conversation before responding. He made every effort to understand other’s strengths and weaknesses and gave advice in a way that was easily grasped. He led by example, inspiring his family members and employees with his wisdom and principles. He was a God-fearing man, full of compassion, encouragement and love.

Bill led a healthy lifestyle. He enjoyed golf, gardening and caring for his lawn. Reading, especially history, was always enjoyable. He was a sports fan and loved the Chicago Cubs and the Baltimore Ravens. His disciplined life continued even as his health failed. He was a model of strength and courage to the end. He was a strong follower of Jesus Christ, a loving husband, an endearing father and grandfather. His greatest joy came from his family. Classy and disciplined, he was known to let his hair down when he was with his grandchildren. Each member of his family felt his love and protective care deeply. One hug from Bill and the cares of the world would go away.

Bill is survived by his wife, Judy Stough; sons, Scott Stough, Reed Stough and his wife Tona; 10 grandchildren, Caroline Wyatt, Cassandra Robison, Scott Wyatt, Andrew Stough, Aubrianna Stough, Nathanael Stough, Ella Stough, Hannah Stough, Coralee Stough, and Emmaline Stough; three great-grandchildren, Allie Robison, Luke Robison, and Lyra Jean Wyatt; and brother-in-law, Jim Jerrels.

A visitation will be at 10:00 am followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am, Thursday, November 21, 2019 at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ 85338. Burial with military honors will be at 1:30 pm at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024. The family suggests that donations be made to the Boys & Girls Club https://www.bgca.org/ways-to-give, or the HealthWell Foundation https://www.healthwellfoundation.org/.

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10 responses to William B. Stough

  1. My sincere condolences to Judy and family. Bill was a serious golf player playing with three other non- serious golfers on a weekly basis. The most enjoyable time was after playing golf, retiring to the local eatery to discuss how great it was to be out in this great weather as we cooled off from our normal bad rounds of golf. Certain subjects were not discussed although each knew and respected each others positions. What a pleasure it was to have known Bill during these times.

  2. David Davis says:

    Bill was my first GM at WISH TV and was highly looked up too. Great man of God.

  3. Bill brought me from WANE-TV to WISH-TV in 1981. He was the most professional and thoughtful manager I ever knew in my 40 years of broadcasting. Although it was a working relationship I will always consider Bill as a good friend. And yes, you were a very Godly man and we were blessed to know you.

  4. Ged Young says:

    Bill was a wonderful gentleman. I worked with him during my CBS career. A great broadcaster and a moral, soft spoken leader..

  5. Michael Bock says:

    Judy and family. I just today received the news about Bill’s passing last month. I wish I had heard sooner.
    I, as so many in his life, were very blessed to have met and worked with Bill. He was a true leader of people: solid in his character, outstanding in his professional skills and Gannett Communications was very fortunate to have Bill lead our station in Portland.awaits
    Personally he was a man I found myself learning a great deal from and appreciating his strengths helped me grow in my position.
    May God bless you as Bill awaits your reunion in His Kingdom.

    Mike Bock

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