Obituary
Mr. Totten was from Brewster, New York where he lived for most of his life before moving to Nauvoo, Alabama in December of 2006. Many people knew him as funny and good looking, but he was a hardworking man who would sacrifice anything for those he cared about, and do everything he could to help out those in need- even people he barely even knew (which was often somebody his children or grandchildren brought over to the house). He spoke up for people who couldn’t fight for themselves, and didn’t hesitate to give his opinion on anything. He had a soft spot for children, and some animals, too, even though he would never admit it.
Bill was a man of many talents. While his job included removing mold and asbestos from buildings, he was also mechanically inclined, could build houses, repair pipes, and rewire stuff around the house… though, you’d expect to find a few light switches to be installed upside down. It was hard to get him on the phone because he was barely around it, but if you ever needed anything you could just stop by, and he would certainly have something laying around the property somewhere that you could have or use.
Pops was a simple man. He enjoyed long walks around the property, strolling through the woods, watching television, playing poker, home cooked meals, preparing for the holidays, telling stories, and tagging along on random adventures led by his kids and grandkids. He’s kept every picture, note, and invitation he’s ever received, he loved being around family, and he loved talking. Bill was always grateful, and something as simple as a conversation could make his day. He could make any house a home, and anybody he’s ever met could say that he made them laugh.
William is survived by his beloved children- Wendy Totten, William Totten Jr., and Kevin Totten; his cherished grandchildren- Leandra Totten, Zachary Wolfe, Tyler Totten, Cheyenne Totten, and Aaron Murphy; honorary grandchildren- Summer Murphy and Zackery Murphy; as well as his sisters- Jane Smith, Helen Totten, and Edna Strang, along with a plethora of other family and friends.
William Frank Totten is preceded in death by his wife and one true love, Paulette Totten; his brothers- Henry Totten, John Totten Jr., and Kevin Totten; his parents- Clara Totten and John Totten; his maternal grandparents- Hester Booth and William Booth, and his paternal grandparents- Edna Totten and Frank Totten.
Family and friends will gathered at Faith Chapel Funeral Home in Jasper, Alabama on Friday, September 3, 2021 for visitation at 1:00pm, followed by funeral services at 2:00pm.
A Graveside service will be held at Raymond Hill Cemetery in Carmel, New York on Monday September 20 at 11:00am, where he is to be buried and finally reunited with his wife, Paulette Totten.
