William (Bill) H. Sasser, 94, of Slocomb, Alabama, passed away on August 12, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of a life richly and faithfully lived. Born December 20, 1931, William devoted his life to his family, his country, education, horticulture, and the many people whose lives he touched along the way.

Bill was married to his best friend and soulmate, Nell Sasser, for 53 wonderful years. Their enduring love and partnership were a cornerstone of his life, and their years and adventurous travels together were filled with shared memories, laughter, and devotion. Their travels together covered much of the globe to include Scotland, England, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, and at one time or another they have touched foot in all 50 states of the United States of America.

Bill proudly served his country for 4 years in the United States Navy during the Korean War, as a “Tin Can Sailor”, aboard the USS O’Brien. His service was an important part of his life and reflected the dedication and sense of duty that he carried with him throughout the years. Following his military service, he continued his education, attending Troy State University before graduating from Alabama Polytechnic Institute, now Auburn University, with a degree in botany. His love of plants and the natural world became the foundation of a long and fulfilling career in horticulture education in numerous schools, including Winter Park High School and Colonial High School. Bill also shared his knowledge and passion with adult students at the University of Central Florida.

His expertise and creativity extended beyond the classroom. William was privileged to help design some of the landscaping at Busch Gardens Tampa, leaving a lasting mark through his knowledge and appreciation of the natural world.

Outside of his professional life, Bill was an avid lover of horticulture and an enthusiastic golfer. He enjoyed countless rounds of golf over the years, to include a round at The Old Course at St. Andrews and proudly (perhaps luckily) recorded 2 holes-in-one, a remarkable accomplishment that few get to experience even once.

Bill will be remembered for his love of learning, his passion for horticulture, his dedication to teaching, his service to his country, and, above all, his devotion to Nell and his family. His life was one of purpose, curiosity, service, and love. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to grow in the lives of those who knew and loved him, much like the plants and gardens he so carefully nurtured throughout his life.

May he rest peacefully, knowing that he was deeply loved and that his life made a lasting difference.

Funeral arrangements are under the careful care of Allen J. Harden Funeral Home.