Invite friends and family to read the obituary and add memories.
We'll notify you when service details or new memories are added.
You're now following this obituary
We'll email you when there are updates.
Select your format and elements to print
William Prentice
Hartley
Nov 9, 1939 — Aug 30, 2026
William (Bill) Hartley, age 86 passed away Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was born Nov. 9, 1939 in Spring Hill, TN.
Bill served in the U.S. Army from 1961-1964. He was a proud veteran and loved his country. He married the love of his life Barbara Bowers July 7th 1963. The two of them welcomed their only child Vicki in 1964. Bill was a proud grandfather to grandchildren Michael and Megan and great grandfather to Hendrix and Harlow.
Bill worked as a shoe salesman for over 30 years and later retired from the VA Hospital.
Bill was an active member of the Masonic Lodge #612 for 60 years and was Worshipful Master in 1985. He also was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for 57 years and was Worthy Patron twice. In 2004 and 2005 he was the State Commander for the Disabled American Veterans.
Bill enjoyed crossword puzzles. There wasn't a puzzle he couldn't solve. He loved sports. His favorite teams were the Tennessee Vols and the Cleveland Indians. He coached men and women's softball for his church for many years. He enjoyed reading and also writing. He wrote several journals of his life experiences and even wrote some catchy songs. Bill loved gambling but his heart was at the dog track and even adopted a few retired greyhounds. Bill's sense of humor and storytelling is what everyone loved about him. He loved to make others laugh.
He is preceded in death by his mother Louzillar Hartley, father Atha Hartley, brothers Roger and Robert Hartley and sister Margaret Moore.
He is survived by his wife Barbara Hartley, daughter Vicki Mercer, grandson Michael Mercer (Katie), granddaughter Megan Hall (Tristan), two great granddaughters Hendrix and Harlow Hall. Brothers Gene Hartley (Ann), Rony Hartley and sister Lisa Wilson, Johnny Mercer and several nieces and nephews.
The service will be conducted by his brother in law Robert Bowles Jr and Brother Pam Hartley. Pall bearers include Michael Mercer, Tristan Hall, Johnny Mercer, John Dale, Rony Hartley and Brian Hartley.
Bill requested in lieu of flowers please consider donating to his favorite charity St. Judes Children's Hospital.
Service information is pending at this time.
Visits: 49
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors