William "Bill" C. Johnson

William Charles Johnson, age 57, of Wilmington, passed away on January 20, 2018.

Bill grew up in the Forty Acres section of Wilmington, where he graduated in 1978 from Delcastle Technical High School as a three sport all-state athlete in football, baseball and basketball. He was signed as a free agent with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1980 and was traded to the Chicago Cubs, where he pitched in the Major Leagues in 1983 and 1984.

After his personal baseball career, Bill coached and mentored young athletes through CYO, American Legion Baseball, and high school and college programs. In addition, he dedicated 30 years to Cott Beverages, Coca Cola Consolidated, and KIK, where he was known as a leader and family man.

“Stoney” was an avid golfer who enjoyed playing many different courses around the country. He was a Notre Dame fan and loved vacationing with his family at his second home in North Myrtle Beach. He was inducted into the Delaware Baseball Hall of Fame and was a member of the Stapler Athletic Association and DuPont Country Club.

Bill is survived by his wife of 35 years, Wendy; his daughter and her husband, Erin and Sam Sampson; his son, Chris; and his grandson, Brady, whom he shared a special bond with. He is also survived by his siblings, Margie May, Jeanette Crowley, Charles Johnson, and Fran Johnson, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents, Charles and Helen Johnson.

Family and friends may visit on Sunday, January 28, 2018 from 12 to 3 PM at Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Rd., Wilmington, DE 19808, where a Celebration of Bill’s Life will begin at 3 PM. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Delaware Hospice, 16 Polly Drummond Center, 2nd Floor, Newark, DE 19711 or to your local Little League or youth sports program. 

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