Mr. William Fred Hanebuth

William Fred Hanebuth, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and educator, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2024, in Mobile, Alabama, at the age of 84. He lived a life marked by intellectual curiosity, generosity, and a profound love for family and music. Born in DuPage County, Illinois, William was the cherished son of Paul Nikolas and Zora Wells Hanebuth. He was preceded in death by his parents and older brother, Dean. He leaves behind his loving and devoted spouse, Cleta Kay (née Miller), whom he married on August 1, 1964. Together, they raised four wonderful children: Paul (Laura) Hanebuth, Elizabeth (Bill) Owen, Karen (Jamey) Greene, and Catherine (Sam) Wilson. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Jimi (Talia) Greene, Sara (Wyatt) Albritton, Jane Hanebuth, Matthew Greene, Andrew Owen, Cade Wilson, Salter Greene, Allison Owen, Will Hanebuth, Abram Wilson, Michael Hanebuth, and Ethan Wilson, and his great-granddaughter, Scarlett Albritton, who brought immense joy to his later years. A lifelong learner, William earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Beloit College, followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. in Plant Physiology from Illinois State University and postdoctoral work at Michigan State University. His passion for education and science led him first to an early, enthusiastic career as a high-school and postsecondary teacher. He later served tirelessly as the Director of the Mobile County Education Association for 23 years and dedicated 10 years to the Alabama Education Association as the Director of Technology and Legislative Research. Throughout his career, he influenced countless lives through his commitment to public education and educators. William was a man of many interests, but his passion for music was a lifelong journey. Despite facing discouragement from an insensitive elementary teacher that deterred him from pursuing music performance, he remained an ardent music lover, patron, and audiophile. His extensive collections of recordings in various media were testament to this enduring passion. He was an early adopter of new technologies, always keen to explore and understand the latest advancements, from the 1960s-era Canon cameras to the latest smartphone. An avid gardener, William found joy in nurturing new life in the soil and also embraced a keen interest in the origins and development of terrestrial life from the Big Bang through evolutionary and human history. This passion for knowledge is manifested in his collection of hundreds of books ranging through many - if not most - nonfiction genres. His intellectual pursuits were matched only by his dedication to his community. He was a proud member of Dauphin Way United Methodist Church, where he contributed not only his resources but also his time and spirit. Additionally, he played an active role in the Mobile Chamber Music Society, serving as a member, benefactor, and officer. William's life was one of service and inspiration. His wisdom, clear-eyed morality, and commitment to improving the lives of teachers and students - that is, all who crossed his path - will be remembered fondly by everyone who knew him. In lieu of flowers, his family requests donations be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Mobile Chamber Music Society, or any educational institution. A celebration of William’s life will be held on Friday, December 6 at 12:00PM at Dauphin Way United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held from 11:00-12:00 just before the service. Family and friends are invited to gather and share in the memories of a remarkable man who touched the lives of so many. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit and wisdom will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love him. Rest in peace, William F. Hanebuth

Mr. William Fred Hanebuth

October 6, 1940 - November 23, 2024