William L Nixon Jr.

William Leo Nixon Jr., known as “Bill” went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at the Ohio State Medical Center. He was born on January 23, 1948, at the Ohio State University Hospital in Columbus, Ohio to William and Mildred Porter Nixon.

Bill attended the Columbus Public School system. He attended Beatty Elementary, Champion Junior High and East High School. He later attended Southwestern Christian College in Terrell, Texas. He was employed at Western Electric, Defense Construction Supply Center (DCSC), and retired from Boeing Aircraft as an Aircraft Engineer after 15 years of service.

 At an early age Bill gave his life to Christ and became a member of Mount Vernon Avenue Church of Christ.  Bill was a great song leader and remembered for leading the congregation in singing the hymn “No Not One.”   Bill worshipped faithfully at the Northland Church of Christ until his health prevented him from attending.
 

Bill proudly served his country, joining the United States Army in June of 1967. He served during the Vietnam War and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Air Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and Marksman Badge (Rife M-14). He was honorably discharged from military service in 1969.

Bill was married to his beloved wife, Leah for over 41 years.  He was a loving husband, a good father and stepfather. With God’s help, Bill was instrumental in sharing the gospel with Leah, supporting her walk with Christ, and encouraging her faith.

Family meant everything to Bill. He loved his family wholeheartedly, believing there was nothing more important in life. Their dog “Blackie” was a constant comfort to Bill and Leah over the years and will greatly miss him. Whenever Bill was not feeling well, Blackie would faithfully stay by his side.

Bill was known for his warm smile, infectious laughter, great sense of humor, and positive outlook on life. Bill never met a stranger, loved life deeply and connected with people from all walks of life.  Because of his passion and zest for living, he built a rich heritage-a beautiful family grounded in love, faith, and intelligence-that will continue for generations to come. Each of his children shared a special bond with him, and as they grew into adulthood, they recognized how deeply they could relate to his life experiences and his joyful spirit.  Bill was immensely proud of the children and all their accomplishments.

Bill and brother Raymond had a very special bond and shared many stories throughout their life together; Raymond has been a true example of being “My Brother’s Keeper.”  Along with Raymond, Bill and his cousin Donna’s relationship was the stuff of legends, an unparalleled alliance; their relationship was a rare gem sparkling with shared jokes, unwavering support and a treasured trove of unforgettable moments that will be treasured for a lifetime.  Bill’s siblings also have fond memories of their childhood with him, remembering the times they spent together.   When he was in the Army, his mother would sing and play her favorite song: “Don’t Mess With Bill” as she prayed for his safety.

Bill is survived by his wife Leah Nixon; Sons, Troy William Nixon and William Leo Nixon, III; Daughters, Toya Renee Nixon, Chauntel Marie Nixon, Monecca Renee Webb and Bianca Angelique (Will) Sims; Stepchildren, Antonio Ashford, Jermaine Ashford and Lisa Ashford. He is also survived by his siblings; Raymond H. Nixon, Linda D. (Johnnie) Johnson, David L. Nixon, Philip V. (Denise) Nixon Sr. and Sharon R. (Robert, Sr.) Hampton, Sister in law, Marilyn Nixon, three aunts Josephine Harris, Patricia Wess, Ruth Haslett and special cousin, Donna Obadina, 29 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

William is preceded in death by Father, William Leo Nixon, Sr., Mother, Mildred Lee Porter Nixon, siblings: Stephen Van Nixon, Paul Eugene Nixon and Mark Geoffrey Nixon.

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