The UK campus community is mourning the loss of former trustees' chair William B. "Bill" Sturgill who passed away over the weekend. He was 89.
University spokesman and long-time colleague Terry Mobley, says Bill Sturgill’s generosity and influence to UK simply can’t be measured.
"He was interested and involved in all major aspects of the university. I had the personal pleasure of working with him when he was very generous and provided funds to build the William B. Sturgill Development building and had my office there I guess for twenty-four years," Mobley told WUKY.
Mobley, says Sturgill’s impact at UK can’t be overstated.
"He was very involved in the initial fundraising efforts of the university and I think the numbers show what that has led to through the years. It was a part of his vision and he cherished deeply his position on the Board of Trustees, and especially the ten years or so that he served as chair," Mobley said.
Sturgill made his fortune primarily through the coal business, but he was also heavily involved in other signature industries, including tobacco and thoroughbred horses.
A native of Eastern Kentucky, Sturgill played basketball for the school in the 1940’s under legendary coach, Adolph Rupp. Visitation for Bill Sturgill will be on Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Second Presbyterian Church in Lexington. A private memorial service is scheduled for the following day.