William Joseph Elder

William “Bill” Joseph Elder, father, brother, friend, and teacher, died at 11:35 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025. He was born on February 21, 1958, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Jim Elder and Ruth Jean Elder. He is survived by his sister, Cynthia Dicken, and her husband, Gary Dicken, of Idaho Springs; two brothers, Michael Elder and his wife, Cassie Elder, and Patrick Elder and his wife, Tami Elder, of Oklahoma City; and by his two sons, Matthew Elder and Evan Elder, and their mother, Lisa Elder, all of the Oklahoma City area. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Chris, Erin, Paul, Ben, Clayton, and Brittan.

Bill was a retired teacher who spent 40 years in the profession, working for 28 years in the special education department at Hefner Middle School and for 12 years at Heritage Hall. He was highly respected at both institutions, loved by his students, and a friend to the faculty. Through his quick wit, caring nature, saintly patience, and unique ability to empathize by making each student feel seen, Bill had a profound impact on his students. His passion for his students’ success was evident in how his talents were utilized.

Bill was a proud graduate of Oklahoma State University, earning a Master’s degree in English Literature. He was an avid sports fan, especially of OSU football and basketball. In his younger years, Bill was an active tournament racquetball player and continued playing recreationally for many years. He loved camping and hiking in nature and spent his whole life exploring Oklahoma’s state parks. He also loved road trips across the country in his van with his family.

Bill was an advocate for animals and provided a loving life to more than 20 pets throughout his life. He had a special love of music, both as a listener and as a patron to his sons. He loved his siblings, sons, nieces, nephews, and his grand nieces and nephews. Bill will be deeply missed. May he rest in peace.

In honor of Bill, please consider donating to Free to Live Animal Sanctuary.