William “Bill” Ray Townsend, age 73, of Bell Buckle, TN, passed away peacefully Wednesday, August 12, 2026, surrounded by his family and in prayer.
A native of Dry Branch, WV, Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Earthlea Townsend, and his brother, Richard Larwa. He is survived by his siblings, Annette (James) Browning and Jack Larwa of WV.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Gloria; children, Valerie, Brian and his wife, Tammy, Dr. Amy Beth Townsend, son-in-law Eric, and Andrea; grandchildren, Dylan, Emanuel, Tessie, Sophie, William, Austin, Autum, Alisha, and Tyler; and great-grandchildren, Rhett, Ryman, and Jace. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Gary, Howard (Yvonne), and Mark (Cindy), as well as his numerous nieces and nephews, who were all very close to his heart.
Bill was a successful businessman who built and operated many restaurants throughout his career. One of his biggest accomplishments was working for Wendy’s International for 25 years. He was also well known for his multiple Captain D’s restaurants. Most recently, he opened Happy Buffalo Wings in McMinnville, TN, a business he was incredibly excited about and proud of. His hard work and dedication made a lasting impact on the many people he met and those who had the privilege of working for and with him.
While Bill was proud of his accomplishments, his greatest joy was his family. He loved traveling with his wife, Gloria, and spending time with the people he loved most. He especially cherished large family gatherings at his home during the holidays. Bill was a true family man, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him tremendous pride and joy.
Bill leaves behind a great legacy and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is now at peace and in the arms of his Savior. His absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but his love, wisdom, laughter, and example will remain in our hearts forever.
Visitation with the Townsend family will be 4:00 until 8:00 pm Monday, August 17, 2026, at Woodfin Memorial Chapel. Funeral services will be 11:00 am Tuesday at Woodfin Memorial Chapel. Entombment will follow in the mausoleum of Roselawn Memorial Gardens.
An online guestbook is available for the Townsend family at www.woodfinchapel.com.
