Bill D. Densmore's Obituary
Bill D. Densmore, 87, was born on February 23, 1933 to Samuel Lee Densmore Sr. and Netta Mae Bell in Dallas, Texas and passed away on October 29, 2020. Bill graduated from Woodrow Wilson, served in the United States Marine Corps and earned Bachelor (1958) and Master (1969) degrees in Education from the University of North Texas. As a Social Studies teacher in DISD for 37 years Bill taught World History, Problems of Democracy, a Photography class and created a Student Council Leadership class that earned statewide recognition; a popular teacher, many of his students stayed in contact for years which is a tribute to his love and enthusiasm for teaching.
Bill was a wonderful friend and highly valued all the friendships in his life. He could always be counted on to bring friends together; in retirement he organized a monthly meeting of the high school and college friends (nicknamed the Munger Mongrels) that met monthly at the Garden Café for years. His love of history endured his entire life. His extensive knowledge and range of interests ensured that conversations were never boring. An avid reader, researcher and writer, Bill documented his family history, his friendships growing up in Munger Place and a history of the Munger Place neighborhood; Bill’s writings about Munger Place, family history, and more are online at billdensmore.com. A life-long resident of East Dallas, Bill was recognized as the oldest ‘new urbanist’ in Dallas by the Lakewood Advocate in 2017 for his efforts in documenting and championing restoration in East Dallas. Bill had an extensive knowledge and love of history and had a remarkable knack for relating it to current situations; his deep-seated beliefs in education, critical thinking, empathy and kindness influenced Bill and those around him throughout his life.
But, most of all, Bill will always be remembered as a loving, compassionate father, husband, and grandfather. Bill is survived by his wife of 49 years, Leslie, his son, Alan, his granddaughter, Taylor and many treasured family members and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Sam, his sister, Nita, and his son, Andrew. A memorial service will be held at a safer later date given COVID-19. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Dallas, 3001 Knox St, #200, Dallas, TX 75205, www.alz.org/dallasnetexas/ or to the charity of your choice.
What’s your fondest memory of Bill?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bill?
Share a story where Bill's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bill you’ll never forget.
How did Bill make you smile?