William “Bill” Jennings Broadway unexpectedly passed away Aug. 20, 2023, at home in Matthews, North Carolina at the age of 57. Bill was born in Atlanta, Georgia to William G. Barefoot and Doris B. Broadway. He moved to Charlotte at the age of three where he grew up on Providence Road and graduated from Country Day School. Bill aka “Bullet” was a talented athlete, competing in football, track, baseball, shot put but primarily basketball. Throughout his Basketball career, Bill scored over 1200 points and still holds the individual record for the most field goals made in one season and a high school career. Bill was a McDonald’s All-American athlete and was offered 19 full ride Athletic Scholarships. Without a doubt The Citadel was his first choice and he went on to graduate with the class of 1989, (Tango Company).
Bill began his career in textiles with Milliken and moved to New York City. He married his first wife Kim Broadway Postma in 1991 and was married for 9 years. His employment with Mt. Vernon company returned him to the South in Greenville SC, where his two daughters Nicole and Lauren were born. He later joined Cotswold Industries and married his second wife Betsy Broadway. Currently, approaching their 20th anniversary. Bill’s career led him back to New York City with Copen Associates, again residing in Manhattan and there welcoming the birth of his son Preston. He later returned to his home in Charlotte NC, where his second son Rhett was born and he became the Executive Vice President of Copen.
Bill’s career not only enriched him professionally but also took him across the globe affording him the chance to experience the diverse cultures of Latin America, China, Europe and Asia. His love for luxury was indulged through his business travels, adding to his wealth of experiences. Bill was extraordinarily charismatic, quick witted, and an incredible people person. Bill had an unmatched ability to connect with others. His sense of humor was outrageous and his heart was huge. Fond memories of Bill are inevitably accompanied by hearty laughter.
Bill is survived by his wife, Ebeth “Betsy” Broadway; his children: Nicole Broadway, Lauren Vilar (Harry), Preston Broadway 16, Rhett Broadway 13; his sisters: Beth Gionis (Demetre), Brandon Broadway (John); his nieces: Rachel Gionis, Eleni Gionis, and Corinne Broadway.
He is preceded in death by his father William G. Barefoot, his mother Doris Browning Broadway, his adoptee father James W. Broadway; his grandparents: Cletus and Boots Barefoot, Jennings and Corinne Browning, Frances and Olin H. Broadway I.
Flowers will be accepted or memorial donations to the Deacons Fund of Providence Presbyterian Church.