William Dariel Kato

William D. Kato (Bill) 87, of White Springs Florida passed away peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2026, at home surrounded by family. Bill was born on May, 30, 1939 in Alma Georgia to the late Elmer and Nellie Kato.

Bill was a jack of many trades. The one career he chose was truck driving. He drove for 42 years, where he was elected driver of the year in the 90’s. He had many safety awards for millions of miles driven without incident, and trained hundreds of individuals.

Outside of work, he was most passionate about his family and spending quality time with each loved one. He loved to be on a boat with family whether setting trout lines, or deep-sea fishing, or just being out on the water.

He will be remembered most for his loyalty to the family, his kindness to every individual he met, and his undying love for God and his beloved wife Josephine.

He is survived by his children: Fay Simpson (Jesse), Billy Kato (Wanda), Robert Kato (Lora), David Kato (Tammy), and Ellen Allen (David); his 12 grandchildren and their spouses, 24 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 52 years Josephine Kato whom he still loved, cherished, and spoke about up until his departure.

Although he is no longer with us, he will be missed and remembered for all of his loving kindness and strength. It isn’t goodbye, only we’ll see you later.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service begins at 11:00 a.m. at Harry T. Reid Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Jasper, Florida.