William "Bill" Stevenson, Jr., age 84, of Canton, Ohio, peacefully departed this life on June 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and friends.

Born on May 28, 1942, in Baird, Mississippi, Bill was the beloved son of the late William Stevenson, Sr. and Eliza Jane Stevenson. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, mentor, and friend whose life was defined by service, hard work, faith, and a commitment to uplifting others.

Bill was a proud graduate of Canton McKinley Senior High School and attended The Ohio State University as a pre-med student for two years. Although he chose a different career path before completing his studies, his determination and excellence opened doors for future generations. Bill became the first African American graduate of the Journeyman Program at Timken Company, where he went on to serve as a Millwright Leader. After a distinguished career spanning 32½ years, he retired from Timken, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, professionalism, and perseverance.

Never one to slow down, Bill embarked on a second career as the first African American H&R Block satellite franchise owner in both Orrville and Loudonville, Ohio. Throughout his retirement years, he continued to serve his community through various professional and volunteer roles, including Men's Department Store Manager at Ralph Lauren Polo, Custodian for Canton City Schools, and volunteer with the Family Economic Success (FES) Program alongside his daughter, Veronica Callahan. He also dedicated his time to Kid Summit Against Drugs, serving as a choir member and van driver at People's Baptist Church, and volunteering with the Grace Operation Food Program at God Given Church of God in Christ.

Bill was deeply committed to fraternal service and brotherhood. He was a longstanding and active member of Hiram Abiff Lodge #72 (PHA), St. Luke Chapter #33 (RAM), Enoch Council #20 (RAM), Golgotha Commandery #36, Bezell Consistory #15, Al Kaf #109 Shrine, and New Dawn Chapter #80. Through these organizations, he forged lifelong friendships and exemplified the principles of service, integrity, and fellowship.

Above all else, Bill cherished his family. He leaves to celebrate his life and honor his memory his beloved wife, Diana Stevenson of Canton, Ohio; his children, Mark (Natalie) Stevenson of Massillon, Ohio, Michael (Simone) Hall of El Paso, Texas, Norman Hall of Canton, Ohio, Stacey Hall of Canton, Ohio, Lisa (Roosevelt) Davies of Canton, Ohio, and Veronica (Tony) Callahan of Canton, Ohio. He is also survived by his siblings, Joyce Russell, Yvonne (Abraham) Grant, Tony Stevenson, and Marilyn Lawrence; a large number of cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Stevenson, Sr. and Eliza Jane Stevenson, and his beloved daughters, Vicky Block and Hope Miller.

Bill's warmth, wisdom, generosity, and unwavering dedication to family and community touched countless lives. He was known for his strong work ethic, infectious smile, willingness to help others, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. His legacy will live on through the many people he mentored, encouraged, and loved throughout his remarkable life.

He also leaves behind two treasured friends, Doug Jefferies and Roland Johnson, whose friendship brought him great joy through the years.

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in knowing that Bill's life was a life well-lived—a life of purpose, faith, service, and love.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever missed.