George William Hookey – May 13, 1943 – January 1, 2026
George William Hookey, known to just about everyone as Bill, passed away on January 1, 2026. He was 82 years old. Born on May 13, 1943, in Brazil, Indiana, Bill lived a life full of laughter, love, and an uncanny ability to make everyone around him feel like an old friend. Bill was a teacher through and through. He dedicated years of his life to education, and anyone who crossed his path in a classroom knew he genuinely loved the kids. Teaching wasn't just a job for Bill; it was a calling. Even after he retired, he couldn't stay away. He drove a school bus for the elementary kids, who affectionately called him Mr. Bill, and he quickly became a favorite all over again. Whether he was in front of a chalkboard or behind the wheel of a big yellow bus, Bill had a gift for connecting with young people and making them smile. Beyond the classroom, Bill was a dedicated coach in baseball, golf, and swimming, and he also served as a swim official. Sports ran deep in his blood. He was a lifelong fan of the Indianapolis 500, attending every single race from his youth until just two years ago. He also loved golf, fishing, woodworking, and traveling. Bill explored Hawaii, Las Vegas, California, and plenty of places in between, often serving as a top-notch tour guide for those lucky enough to tag along. Bill was a proud member of the Noblesville Elks and Moose clubs, where he could regularly be found playing cards with his buddies and cracking jokes. He was a true jokester who never met a stranger and always had a smile on his face. On September 2, 1992, Bill married Marlene Nichols Short in Las Vegas, and the two built a beautiful life together. Bill is survived and deeply loved by his wife, Marlene; his children, Shawn Hookey, William Hookey, Nicole Short (AJ), and Natalie Olson (Lamar); his grandchildren, Lily Dutchess (Xavier), Ava Smith, Luke Smith, Chris Smith, Caleigh Smith, Nova Olson, Memphis Olson, and Rosemarie Hookey. He was predeceased by his daughter, Julie Hookey, his parents, Overton and Margaret Hookey. May he rest in the peace and joy he so freely gave to others. A celebration of Bill's life will be held on Saturday, May 30th, at the Noblesville Elks Club. His son-in-law, Arthur Tompkins (AJ), will officiate. He will be missed more than words can say.