William Joseph "Bill" Chism, 66, of Jeffersonville, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, May 25, 2023. Bill served in the United States Marines, was a member of New Beginnings Community Church in New Albany, and was a proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous. Bill celebrated 34 years of sobriety in 2022. His passion for helping others start their journey to sobriety led him to become the director of detox at the Healing Place in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he earned his nickname, "Detox Bill." Family and friends will fondly remember Bill as a loving father, grandpa, companion, friend, humorist, and proud man of God. While Bill left us far too soon, his impact on our communities will be felt for years.
He was born on December 3, 1956, in New Albany, Indiana, to the late Oscar Chism and Virginia (Hopper) Chism. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his siblings, Richard Chism, Betty Baker, and Marvin Baker; stepson, Michael Geary; along with his faithful K-9 companion, Gracie.
Bill is survived by his son, Eric Chism (Sarah); daughter, Amanda Elliott (Brian Kahoe); partner, Cindy Chism; siblings, Maggie Peak, Robert "Bob" Chism, and Dale Chism; grandchildren, Kyleigh Van Winkle and Grayson Geary; along with nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
A Memorial Gathering will be from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 10, 2023, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany, Indiana). His Memorial Service will be at the funeral home at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, with the gathering continuing after the service until 4:00 p.m. Cremation was chosen following Bill's wishes.
"You can't think your way into right action, but you can act your way into right thinking." - Bill Wilson
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to Jeffersonville Animal Shelter (201 Willinger Lane, Jeffersonville, IN 47130).
Please consider sharing a memory of Bill or leaving a special message for his family by completing the "Share Memories" section below.