Rest In Power, Brother Endsley
William "Bill" Endsley, a distinguished and devoted leader in the labor movement and a cherished member of the Toledo and Columbus communities where he was a devoted union leader and Sarasota, FL where he retired, passed away on December 8, 2023, at the age of 80. Brother Endsley dedicated his life to advocating for workers' rights and was a significant figure in the labor unions, culminating in his role as the state President of AFSCME Ohio Council 8.
"The Ohio AFL-CIO sends our thoughts and prayers to the Endsley family. Brother Endsley was a giant in the Ohio Labor movement and working people have benefited from his dedication to achieving economic and social justice for every Ohioan," said Ohio AFL-CIO President Tim Burga.
Bill's unwavering commitment to public service was evident throughout his career. He was known for his strategic leadership, compassionate approach to workers' challenges, and his relentless efforts to improve the working conditions and lives of public employees. His union leadership career began in 1970s when he founded the United Coalition of Municipal Employees, was the secretary of the Toledo Port Council, a delegate to the Toledo AFL-CIO Federation of Labor and regional vice president of AFSCME Ohio Council 8. In 1991 he was elected president of Council 8 where he served until retirement.
He is survived by his loving family, including his son and daughter-in-law, Nate and Krista Endsley; his daughter and son-in-law Connie and Jerry Everly; his adored granddaughters, Jordyn Sebben and Riley Endsley; and his sister and brother-in-law, Sue and John Iwinski. His presence will also be deeply missed by his many nieces and nephews, along with numerous friends, colleagues, and those whose lives he touched through his work and advocacy. Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife Kathy and his son Jason.
Bill was a beacon of strength and guidance, not only to his family but also to the many people he represented and worked alongside. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence the Labor movement and community initiatives in Ohio.