Information regarding Memorial services to celebrate Mr. Witten, which will be held in Cleveland, Ohio, will be forthcoming as soon as arrangements are confirmed.

William Jerome Witten was born February 21, 1949, in Beckley, West Virginia, the eldest son of John William and Mary Elizabeth Witten and a beloved brother to his seven siblings. He departed this life and was ushered into eternal rest on July 8, 2026.

William spent his early childhood in West Virginia before his family moved to Cleveland, Ohio. It was there that he discovered the true meaning of life through the deep, unconditional love of his family, faith, and service to others. This foundation guided him throughout his life, education, and career.

A proud graduate of East Technical High School, William went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ohio Northern University in 1974. Following graduation, he began his professional career and on April 19, 1975, married Gladys Sandifer. To this memorable union, their three children, Justin Adam, Morganne Blaire, and Taylor Courtnay, were born. Though their journeys parted over time, they remained bonded by their shared love for their family.

William was a man of distinct character—a true "Renaissance Man." A larger-than-life presence with magnetic charisma, he could effortlessly brighten any room he entered. As a master storyteller with genuine warmth and connection, he made everyone he met feel like a friend. Beyond his vibrant spirit, William was a kind man who willingly shared his time, energy, and words of wisdom with all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His many pursuits and passions included having impeccable style and a treasured cufflink collection, watching and playing basketball, football, golf, poker, and sports of all kinds, enjoying music, arts and culture, and travel. Amidst it all, his greatest love was his family and fatherhood. It brought him so much joy to share stories and spend time with his children, grandchildren, siblings, and relatives.

William dedicated 23 years to Procter & Gamble (P&G), managing corporate operations across the country. He later channeled this experience and business acumen into executive leadership, venturing out as a successful independent consultant. He was a Partner at WEB Ventures and the Founder and President of The Witten Consulting Group. His business philosophy mirrored his personal life: William led with deep sincerity, a generous heart, and a belief that the best connections were fostered over a shared meal, good laughter, and a heartfelt story.

For nearly three decades, William poured his heart into mentoring others and uplifting the Avondale neighborhood and the broader City of Cincinnati. A pillar of his community, he served on the boards of the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden and Cincinnati Neighborhood Business District United, and was the longtime Chairperson for the Avondale Business Association. He also served as a community partner and advocate to Cincinnati Children's Hospital. He proudly devoted 30 years of visionary leadership to the Board of Trustees at Ohio Northern University, an achievement honored by a lifetime appointment to the ONU Trustee Fellows. While his professional achievements were many, the true measure of William’s life was the rich community of family and friends he nurtured and loved wholeheartedly.

William was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Witten; sisters, Paula Gaines and Deborah Mathis; and brother, Everette Witten.

Those who cherish his memory and loving legacy include his son, Justin (Natasha); daughters, Morganne and Taylor; grandchildren, Jaylen, David, and Brandon; siblings, Keith (Tonia), John Phillip, Rhonda (Kevin), and Rodger; Aunts, Ruth Boyd, Katie Green, Grace Graham, and Evelyn (Joseph) Bonner; alongside a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, loved ones, and dear friends who will forever carry his love forward.