William Emerson, 70, of Anacortes, peacefully departed this earth for his eternal home on October 6, 2024 after a courageous battle with an extended illness. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, June 18, 1954, to John and Elizabeth (Moffat) Emerson. He grew up in the East end of the city, attending Dalmarnock Primary School and Eastbank Academy.  At 15, he left school and joined the merchant navy, traveling the world for over seven years.  Travel remained his constant joy. Once out of the navy, he worked as a labourer, millwright and caterer.
He returned to college and obtained a degree in social work. He worked with the Lilybank Housing Authority, was coordinator for Bluevale Community Center in Dennistoun, Glasgow, and ended his career in Scotland as a development officer for Glasgow Community Planning (East).
In 2008, he immigrated to the United States and married his penpal of 40 years, Linda Norton of Anacortes.  William retired from Pioneer Northwest in 2020 after many years as a Resident Care Specialist. He loved gardening, leaving a legacy of beauty and resident hummingbirds. An avid "futball" fan, William enjoyed a good game of soccer, especially if it involved the Glasgow Rangers Football Club. Go Gers!
William was preceded in death by his parents, John and Elizabeth Emerson, and one sister, Ann Emerson Gibson.
Mr. Emerson is survived by his wife, Linda, six children, four grandchildren, two sisters in Glasgow, Margaret and (Norman) Harrison and Fiona and (William) O'Neill, Janice McCulley, a cousin, also from Glasgow, as well as numerous treasured relatives and friends in Scotland, Northern Ireland, England, Australia and the United States.
He was a bonnie wee Scotsman!
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 11:00 am, at the First Baptist Church, 2717 J Avenue, Anacortes.