William Lincoln Stiteler, III

William Lincoln Stiteler, III (Jerry), a true native son of Arizona, was born on July 8, 1933 in Phoenix, Arizona. After 91 years of living an incredible life, he passed away peacefully on February 10, 2025. Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Jeanne. He told everyone how much he loved her and how blessed he was to have her by his side. He was also blessed with four daughters: Pamela Kelly (Chris), Katherine Smith (Clint), Karrie Cravens (Robert), and Connie Wirth (Michael). Nothing gave him more satisfaction and joy than to be surrounded by his family including his 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

A graduate of North High School, Jerry attended Arizona State University on a basketball scholarship. After two years of college, he was drafted into the Army and served two years in Korea as a Master Sergeant. His typing skills sent him to the office of General Beach to be his private secretary, top-secret clearance. Upon his discharge, he resumed his basketball career at ASU until he graduated in 1957 with a degree in Education. A Sun Devil for life, he remained an ASU basketball fan for 70 years and enjoyed attending the games until the last week of his life.

Jerry was a Physical Education teacher and coach at Griffith and Orangedale Elementary Schools in the Balsz School District for 32 years. He loved teaching and coaching, inspiring multiple generations of students. Under his guidance and training, the track and field programs won many State Championships. Jerry retired from teaching in 1989 and enjoyed a second career selling insurance for 25 years. A man of many talents, he enjoyed being a basketball referee for 40 years (1959-1999) officiating at all levels.

He was grateful to live a long and happy life, spending many summers in Pinetop, Prescott Valley, AZ, and Duluth, MN. He was very proud of his family and loved being a grandfather creating happy family memories. Jerry loved music, dancing, basketball, football, golf, poker, the beach, traveling, birthday party celebrations, and family reunions. He was a generous soul and a very giving person. He had a lasting impact on the people he loved. It is his legacy of love that we will remember most.

A private family graveside service will be held at the Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Phoenix, AZ.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Griffith Elementary P.E. Department, 4505 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85008.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life luncheon on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at Pitch Restaurant and Pizzeria: 6350 E. Thomas Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85251.