Dobro Bill
“I'm so old that the first rainbow I ever saw was in black and white”
Sometimes it’s the simplest dreams that matter the most.
I met “Dobro Bill” in May of 2026, just as he was approaching his 99th birthday (though he’ll tell you it’s really his 66th if you turn it upside down). A lifelong musician and World War II veteran, he is the very embodiment of our “Greatest Generation.” His stories can pull you to the edge of your seat one moment and have you laughing the next, delivered with a dry, steady wit that reflects a life well lived.
In recent years, health challenges have made it difficult for Bill to play his beloved dobro. Still, the music has never left him. He spoke quietly about wanting to pick it up again, just to try, just to feel it in his hands again.
When we asked if he might like some fellow pickers to come play with him for his birthday, his eyes filled with tears. “I’d like that more than anything in the world,” he said. So that’s exactly what we did.
Surrounded by friends and music, with Jeff, Sarah, and Jay ready to play, Bill celebrated his 99th birthday the way he loved most, with strings ringing and hearts full. For a little while, the years seemed to fall away, replaced by melodies, memories, and joy.
In addition, he was presented with his military service pin arranged by Amedisys Hospice.
Birthday parties don’t get any better than this.
The YOLO Foundation sends wishes for the best "66th" birthday ever to Dobro Bill.
In recent years, health challenges have made it difficult for Bill to play his beloved dobro. Still, the music has never left him. He spoke quietly about wanting to pick it up again, just to try, just to feel it in his hands again.
When we asked if he might like some fellow pickers to come play with him for his birthday, his eyes filled with tears. “I’d like that more than anything in the world,” he said. So that’s exactly what we did.
Surrounded by friends and music, with Jeff, Sarah, and Jay ready to play, Bill celebrated his 99th birthday the way he loved most, with strings ringing and hearts full. For a little while, the years seemed to fall away, replaced by melodies, memories, and joy.
In addition, he was presented with his military service pin arranged by Amedisys Hospice.
Birthday parties don’t get any better than this.
The YOLO Foundation sends wishes for the best "66th" birthday ever to Dobro Bill.
