Obituary: William Tigner
William Tigner, a lifelong resident of Hornsby, Tennessee, passed away on August 1, 2026, in Bolivar, Tennessee, at the age of 72. Born at home in Hornsby on September 27, 1953, William’s life was rooted deeply in the community he loved and served.
From an early age, William carried with him not only the legacy of his parents, Robert William Tigner and Lillian Marsiz Moore Tigner, but also a love for the land and people around him. His beginnings in Hornsby blossomed into a life marked by steadfast dedication, quiet generosity, and enduring relationships.
William began his career in 1971 at Sealtest in Bolivar, quickly earning a reputation for his diligence and work ethic. In 1980, he joined the Division of Forestry, where he found his true calling. For 38 years, until his retirement in 2018, William devoted himself to preserving and nurturing Tennessee’s natural beauty. Generations of school children and townsfolk knew him as the embodiment of “Smoky the Bear,” a role he took on with pride and humility, teaching countless people the value of stewardship and care for the outdoors.
His appreciation for nature extended beyond his professional life. William was an avid hunter and could often be found building birdhouses or with his metal detector combing the woods and fields he knew so well. He cherished the tranquil beauty of the Hatchie River, a place that echoed with memories of days spent immersed in the serenity and wonder of the natural world.
Yet, nothing brought William more joy or pride than his family, especially his grandchildren. His happiest moments were attending their sports games, cheering from the sidelines, and sharing in their triumphs and laughter. His life was a testament to the unspoken power of steadfast love and presence.
William’s devotion reached into his community as well. He was an active member of Hatchie Baptist Church, where his gentle spirit and willing hands became a solace and inspiration to those around him. Every gesture, every quiet act of kindness, was an expression of a life lived in service to others.
Those who will forever cherish William’s memory include his beloved wife, Pat Tigner, whom he married on August 18, 1979; his daughter, Tina Faulk (Ethan); his sister, Loretta Goodrum (Dennis); his brothers, Randy Tigner (Rita) and Steve Tigner (Tammy); his grandchildren, Case and Piper Baker and a host of nieces and nephews. Though saddened by their loss, they are comforted by the wealth of memories and the legacy he leaves.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert William Tigner and Lillian Marsiz Moore Tigner; his son, Wade Tigner; and his infant brother, Jeffery Tigner.
To honor William’s life, visitation was held at Shackelford Funeral Directors – Bolivar, located at 109 Mecklinburg Drive, Bolivar, TN, on August 5, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM. His funeral service followed at the same location at 3:00 PM. Interment took place at Hatchie Cemetery, 900 Little Hatchie Loop, Hornsby, TN, on August 5th.
The Hornsby community has lost a steady hand, a generous heart, and a dear friend. William Tigner’s life remains an enduring example of kindness, commitment, and grace—a legacy that will continue through the woods he loved, the family who adored him, and the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him. Memorial contributions in his name may be sent to Hatchie Baptist Church, Hatchie Cemetery or the Dementia Society of America (www.dementiasociety.org).
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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