William "Bill-Sonny" Rampley

William Lewis “Bill-Sonny” Rampley, 69, of Marietta died Monday, February 13, 2012. A Memorial Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday at Mayes Ward-Dobbins Funeral Home and Crematory in Marietta. Bill was born in Cartersville, GA on September 1, 1942 where he was given the nickname "Sonny" that was used affectionately throughout his life. He moved to Marietta, GA later and graduated from Marietta High School in 1960. He worked in law enforcement as a park ranger, police office, criminal investigator, under cover drugs and private investigator to aid in recovering missing children. Some of his recoveries were written up in the newspaper and magazines. He had many acting positions including the Longest Yard, Smokey and the Bandit and the Long Riders. He modeled for numerous Big and Tall magazines, casted for roles in numerous community theaters, music videos, voice over’s and hosting his own television pilot show called Southern Comfort where he was the winner of Best Non-scripted Host award at the New York Television Festival in 2008. Bill retired from Lockheed Martin as a Fabrication Group Supervisor and later as a Material Controller. His latest position held was as a Project Specialist for Service Inspections at Verify Inc. Throughout his life he was very active in athletics including baseball, football and professional wrestling. He had a true love for the Georgia Bulldogs, the Atlanta Falcons and the Braves. Bill was well loved by all and had never met a stranger. He instantly became everyone’s favorite person and although he was a large man he was known by all as a gentle giant. His love for life and his exuberant personality endeared him to everyone. He was everyone’s favorite friend, coworker, uncle and father. Survivors include his wife, Debra Rampley of Marietta; four daughters, Cynthia Townsend of Raleigh, NC, Catherine Holland of Marietta, Amber Avanossian of Newnan, Monique Rampley of Marietta; two sisters, Janie McCauley and Shelia Dickerson both of Marietta; three grandchildren, Daniel Townsend, David Holland, Jr., and Christa Holland; two great grandsons, Kamber and Hayden also nieces and nephews. Family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. www.mayeswarddobbins.com

William "Bill-Sonny" Rampley

September 1, 1942 - February 13, 2012