Dr. William A. “Bill” Staton III, 75, died Monday, November 13, 2023, at Baptist Memorial Hospital North MS. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. at Paris-Yates Chapel with Rev. Gail Stratton officiating. A private inurnment service will follow in the City of Oxford Columbarium.
Dr. Staton was born on January 17, 1948 in Waco, TX to the late Edward and Norma Staton. He earned his PhD in Mathematics before accepting a job as a professor at The University of Mississippi that would span his entire career. Bill made Oxford his home and found his passion working alongside students. His love of mathematics spilled into all areas of his life and he could often be heard giving a quick lesson or explanation to whoever lent an ear. Dr. Staton’s knowledge and expertise was a guiding light to the countless PhD students sponsored under his direction as well as the students he tutored through various programs including The Boys and Girls Club and a prison program that assisted inmates seeking their GED.
Dr. Staton married his late wife, Carolyn in 1984. They shared an interest in antiques and collectibles and found a niche in rare and unique books. The community fondly remembers their “Book Nook” located in The Depot. Together, their hobby grew into a small business and the couple sold and shipped books all over the country. Their three boys brought beautiful light into their lives. Their home was a happy space for the children to grow and flourish away from the demands and stresses of their careers and everyday lives. Dr. Staton enjoyed traveling, coin collecting, and running. He ran countless races and won many medals and trophies throughout the years. However, he found his greatest purpose in his family, organically modeling a life inspired by simple moments. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Dr. Carolyn Ellis Staton.
Survivors include three sons, William “Will” Staton and his wife, Katrina of Syracuse, NY, Thom Staton and his wife, Emma of Asheville, NC and Michael Staton and his fiancé, Erin of Pembroke, NH; one brother, Walter Staton of Dallas, TX and a beloved granddaughter, Sofia Staton Ballard.
Memorial contributions in Dr. Staton’s memory may be made to the Carolyn Ellis Staton Scholarship in Law Endowment, University of Mississippi Foundation, 406 University Avenue, Oxford, MS 38655.
