Bill Eure
Bill Eure, husband of the Rev. Michael Piazza, died overnight in his sleep, at his home in Atlanta, following a fierce battle with cancer.
Eure is survived by his family: husband Michael Piazza, his daughters Jerica Coughlin and Jordan Coughlin, his brother John Eure, David Plunkett and Sheila Coughlin.
Eure and Piazza met in Dallas in 1980, before Piazza became pastor of Cathedral of Hope. The family moved to Atlanta from Dallas in 2011 where Piazza became the senior pastor at Virginia-Highland Church.
Eure is originally from Goldsboro, N.C. and graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. He worked for Hewlett-Packard. Eure had many interests, and was a certified sommelier.
On his Facebook page, Piazza wrote the following tribute:
Last night my beloved Bill died in his sleep. He left far too soon, but I had the privilege of loving and being loved by him for thirty-five and a half years. I told him yesterday that he was always my proof that God really does love me. So next time you raise a glass of champagne or good wine remember that smile and toast a life well lived. XOXO
The Rev. Neil Cazarez-Thomas isuued the following statement on behalf of Cathedral of Hope:
Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ, Dallas TX is saddened by the news of the passing of Bill Eure, husband of Reverend Michael Piazza, former Senior Pastor and influential leader of progressive Christianity.
Bill was an integral part of Reverend Piazza’s 24-year ministry at Cathedral of Hope and he served in numerous roles, sharing his talents and gifts in abundance.
Our hearts and prayers go out to Reverend Michael and their two daughters Jerica and Jordan. We join with members of Virginia-Highland Church in Atlanta, where Reverend Michael currently serves, as we share in their loss.
As people of faith we understand that death is not the end, but rather a gateway to eternity. We share and mourn our loss, even as we celebrate a life well-lived.
RIP, good and faithful servant.
The Reverend Dr. Neil G. Cazares-Thomas Senior Pastor
