William Eugene Rawson

William Eugene Rawson, 84, of Astor Florida passed away peacefully surrounded by beloved family on July 11, 2026. William was born on April 16, 1942, in Twin Falls Idaho to Leslie Max Rawson and Viola Mae Combs. William served in the United States Navy as a Submarine Sonarman on both the U.S.S. Sam Houston and the Alexander Hamilton. After his Naval service William went on to work as an engineer and entrepreneur in the communications industry.

Beyond working, providing for his family and spending time with family and friends, William loved singing in his high school choir, the voices of Luciano Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli, photography, fishing, and building projects around his home.

He is survived by his wife Rita Carol Rawson, sons George (Mary) Rawson, Robert Rawson and daughter Mee Ah (Matt) Buckley. Grandchildren, Ethan, Zachary, Billy, Christopher, Matthew, Olivia, Bo, and Brenna and several great grandchildren and his brother Michael Rawson and step sister Trudy Throckmorton. He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Buddy, Ronny and David.

William will be remembered for his gentle kindness, generous caring spirit and his sense of humor. He had a deep devotion, love and dedication to his wife and family.

A memorial Mass will be held at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, in Ocala, Fl. Inurnment will take place at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell Florida.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to go to either Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Empath Hospice of Marion County, or Charity of choice.