William “Bill” Lampkin was born on December 4, 1939, in McRae, Georgia, to John “Jake” and Rosa (Greer) Lampkin. Early in life, the family relocated to Brunswick, Georgia, where Bill’s deep roots and lifelong connections began to take shape.

Bill graduated from Risley High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Tennessee State University. During college, Bill became a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., forming bonds and values that remained important throughout adulthood. Education and service were central throughout life, leading Bill to complete a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the University of Maryland.

Bill built an illustrious 33 year career with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Over the course of this tenure, roles included Chemist, Compliance Officer, and ultimately Director of Medical Products Quality Assurance. One of the most distinguished assignments took Bill and family to Nairobi, Kenya, where they lived for three years. That period opened doors to extensive travel, creating lasting memories in Germany, Cairo, Sweden, London, Paris, Iran, Italy, Amsterdam, and beyond.

Bill was known for an unmistakable warmth that drew people in. A smile was almost always on his face, and his boisterous, contagious laugh could fill a room and lift even the heaviest spirit. He loved to tease, often “stirring the pot” just enough to get a laugh from whoever was nearby. It was one of the many ways he showed affection.

Family—near and extended—looked to Bill not only for humor but for guidance. He served as a mentor to many nephews and grand nephews, who sought him out for wisdom delivered with equal parts honesty and heart. Over the years, Bill became known by many names—Bill, Dad, Poppa, Lamp, Willie T.—each representing a special bond and a unique place he held in the lives of others. One of his signature habits was telling whoever was with him that they were his “favorite”—his favorite sister in law, niece, child, cousin—whoever happened to be nearby. He got such joy out of seeing their reactions, and everyone knew it came from a place of deep love. His generosity was legendary; younger family members knew that if “Uncle Bill” was around, a smile, a joke, and a few dollars were never far behind.

Outside of professional life, Bill was known for a wide range of passions. A devoted fisherman, Bill found peace and solitude on the water. Skilled with woodworking, Bill built decks, furniture, gazebos, countless pieces of furniture, etc. treasured by friends and family. In retirement, Bill provided pharmaceutical consulting expertise in Saudi Arabia, supporting a company’s efforts to become eligible to sell pharmaceuticals in the United States. He also became a successful real estate entrepreneur, known for his keen eye for property acquisition and his exceptional skill in renovating and maintaining rental properties.

On December 25, 1960, Bill married his childhood friend and next door neighbor Cynthia Levorne Smiley, beginning a lifelong partnership and family rooted in love.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents John “Jake” and Rosa (Greer) Lampkin and by his son Jaymes “Jay” Otis Lampkin. Cherished memories live on through his wife Cynthia “Simp” (Smiley) Lampkin of Brunswick, Georgia, brother Robert “Bobby” Lampkin of Brunswick, Georgia; children Cheryl Lampkin of Aiken, South Carolina, Glenda Lampkin (Tony MoragneEl) of Wilson, North Carolina, and William “Terry” Lampkin (Vickie) of Huntersville, North Carolina; grandchildren Ashley, Amber, Nya, Kenya, Stinson, and Satchel; and a large extended family of sisters in law, brothers in law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who were touched by Bill’s kindness, wisdom, and steady presence.

In accordance with Bill’s wishes, a private immediate‑family‑only memorial service will be held at a later date.

We deeply appreciate the messages, support, and outpouring of love that our family and friends have offered as we have navigated this challenging journey. Your love and prayers have brought us comfort and strength. Please feel free to continue sharing your loving memories and condolences through this memorial website.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Bill’s memory to Manna House of Brunswick, Inc. (or mail to: Manna House of Brunswick Inc.; 138 Cypress Run Dr.; Brunswick, GA 31520) or Hospice of the Golden Isles (or mail to: 1692 Glynco Parkway, Brunswick, GA 31525).

Brunswick Memorial Park Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the Lampkin family.