William J. King

William J. King passed away on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. Heartbreaking news for those who knew him because he enriched their lives so much. But for Bill, he is home. As he repeatedly said in conversations and on knot boards that he sent worldwide, "My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?" John 14:2

During his 89 years, Bill worked hard and played harder: on the sea and in ports around the world when he was in the Coast Guard; in the Bronx, where he grew up, began his career as a telephone man and met Carmela, his wife of 35 years who he lost long before he was ready to let go; and in Albuquerque, where he moved his family in 1971 for a better life, raised four children, and began his mission to spread God's word through the creation of Jesus Witness Knot Boards.

Bill took the skills he learned as a boatswain's mate in the Coast Guard, combined it with his reading of the Bible and his deep-seated faith, and turned it into the knot boards that now hang on the walls of homes, churches, missions, causes, and businesses. Upon his death, he had made 3,000 boards, inspiring people around the world.

Bill was a loveable character who entertained family and friends with tales of a life well-lived. He humbly and sincerely believed that God watched over him, bailing him out of trouble and blessing him with gifts. Now, Bill is watching over us. "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" Matthew 25:21.

Bill is survived by his four children: Johanna and husband Karl Overmyer of Albuquerque; Bill and wife Marlene of Texas; Gloria of Albuquerque; and Laura and husband John Anduaga-Arias of Belgium. He also is survived by ten doting grandchildren: Dominique, Marcus, Reneé, Nicolene, Matthew, Shawn, Taylor, Bob, Alicia, and Kelly. Other survivors include his sister, Gloria, and her husband Bob Keller of Florida; his brother Bob of Texas; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Bill's family plans to host a celebration of his life in July, around his 90th birthday, when loved ones can hug each other, share stories, eat, drink, and pray together.  In the meantime, prayers are appreciated, masses in his name are welcome, and good wishes mean so much.