William T. Sells

William T. Sells
March 2, 1943 - November 14, 2025

William T. "Bill" Sells, 82, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Born on March 2, 1943, in Canton, Ohio, Bill grew up surrounded by family and friends who shaped his love for community, sports, and education. After graduating from Canton McKinley High School, he went on to earn both his bachelor's and master's degrees from Ohio University-a place that would become central to his life and legacy.

Bill began his career teaching at Oxford College of Emory University in Georgia, but soon returned to Ohio University, where he spent 48 years inspiring students and building programs that enriched campus life. From his roles as teacher to Associate Director and later Director of Intramural Sports, Bill's dedication left a lasting mark. He was proud to serve as an official scorer for Bobcat basketball and football games and played a key role in creating the Ping Recreation Center. His passion for recreation extended nationally through his involvement with the National Intramural and Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA), where he served as president in 2001.

Faith was a cornerstone of Bill's life. He was an active member of St. Paul and Christ the King Churches in Athens, where he developed and led the CCD program for 18 years. Bill believed deeply in giving back and creating spaces for others to grow.

Above all, Bill was happiest when surrounded by family. He loved golf, traveling, landscaping, and cheering on his favorite teams, but nothing brought him more joy than time spent with those he loved.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Jean Sells of Canton. He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Mary E. "Betty" Sells; his children Brian (Anne) Sells of Cincinnati, Bridgette (Alan) Wiggers of Twinsburg, and Brooke (Georg) Morris of Jupiter, Florida; and seven cherished grandsons: Kyle and Nicholas Wiggers, Connor and Bennett Sells, and Lantz, Kai, and Trace Morris. He is also survived by his brothers James (Pat) Sells of Canton and Randy Sells of Mt. Vernon, Illinois.

A family celebration of life will be held in Canton in the spring of 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local Alzheimer's Association in Bill's memory. T.P. White & Sons Funeral Home serving the family.