William T. Campbell Jr. ’50

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Bill Campbell
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Bill lived a life marked by passion for learning, athletics, and the water.

He met his wife, Betts (a graduate of Mount Holyoke College), during his time at Princeton and together they raised two children, Maud and Mike, and enjoyed more than 70 years of love, adventure, and shared joys, such as sailing their boat, the Bonnie. Bill’s Princeton spirit never faded, evident in his joyous participation at many P-rades, most notably the last at age 97 alongside his two grandsons and his four great-grandchildren.

Bill enjoyed a four-decade legal career as managing partner at Swartz Campbell, leading many high-profile cases. Retirement allowed him to focus on family, passing on his love for activities like body surfing to his grandsons.

Bill’s comprehensive four-volume series, A Speedboat Scrapbook, captured his dedication to antique boat racing and enriched the community with his insights. His community involvement and World War II service highlighted his integrity and commitment to the country. As an avid gardener, Bill hoped his endowment of a wildflower garden on Princeton’s campus will be enjoyed for generations to come.

Bill died Nov. 19, 2023. He is remembered for his humor, storytelling, and humility, Bill’s legacy as a dedicated family man and a Princeton Tiger endures. His life, a testament to family, adventure, and love, continues to inspire.

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