William Franklin Burruss Jr., a beloved father, devoted husband and cherished grandfather passed away peacefully at his home in Key West, Florida on March 29, 2025. He was 67 years old.

Born on October 5, 1957, in Newport News, Virginia, William—known affectionately to many as Bill—was a man of deep character, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends. Throughout his life, Bill was a role model to all who knew him.  He grew up in Tarboro, N.C. and later attended Appalachian State University. Years later he moved to Washington D.C. where he not only began his career in the hospitality industry, but he also met the love of his life Carolyn, tying the knot in 1985.

With a career spanning over four decades in the hospitality industry, Bill was a well-accomplished hotel manager and developer whose leadership, professionalism, and warmth left a lasting impression on anyone who spent time working alongside him. His genuine care for people and ability to provide mentorship touched the lives of numerous individuals around the world. Bill was a true pillar in the Key West community, where he made his final home and built enduring friendships. He and his wife Carolyn came to Key West in 1993 for vacation the first time and fell in love with the island. Shortly after, they decided to slowly build their future dream house on White Street in 1994. After Bill partially retired, they both moved to Key West full time from Annapolis, MD in 2006. This dream house is where he ultimately passed away, per his wishes. Even though he traveled the world many times over, Key West was always his home of choice. Bill always brought people together from various backgrounds around town with his warm spirit, easy laughter, and gift for storytelling, especially with a cocktail in hand on the front porch of his White Street house.

He is preceded in death by his loving mother, Betty Ann Hagans; his father, William Franklin Burruss Sr., and his beloved daughter, Kara Elizabeth (Burruss) Bramhall. Though their loss was a great sorrow in his life, Bill carried their memory with strength and grace. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carolyn; his son, William James Burruss (Luisa); sister, Julie Burruss Alford (Tim); son-in-law, Cory Bramhall and his treasured grandchildren, Ellie Elizabeth Bramhall and William James Burruss Jr., who brought him immeasurable pride and joy. His legacy lives on in them and in all who had the honor of knowing him. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Key West, FL.