The life of a long-time former CEO at Baxter Health is being remembered by the Twin Lakes Area to what many see today. Henry William “Bill” Anderson Jr. of Gainesville died Thursday in Mountain Home at the age of 87.
Anderson, originally born in Ravenden, was a graduate of Imboden High School, currently known as Sloan-Hendrix High School. He soon joined the U.S. Air Force and served in the Strategic Air Command.
Four years later, Anderson attended McNeese State University in Lake Charles, La., where he earned his undergraduate degree and discovered an interest in healthcare administration. He moved on to Columbia University in New York, earned his master’s degree in healthcare administration and served his residency in Brooklyn Cumberland Hospital. His career in administration led him on to Atlanta, Houston, El Dorado, Jonesboro and Memphis.
Anderson spent the final 20 years of his career at Baxter Health, formerly known as Baxter Regional Medical Center, and retired in 2000 as its chief executive officer. During his time as the top administrator, he oversaw multiple expansions at the hospital including the construction of its six-story tower, the addition of a cancer treatment center, the performance of its first cardiac bypass surgery and the establishment of multiple ambulance stations.
A memorial service for Bill Anderson will be Saturday afternoon at 3 at Roller Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 1 until the time of the service.
He is survived locally by his wife, Marge; two sons, Henry William “Hank” Anderson III and Fred William “Will” Anderson III; and one daughter, Cherie Denise Gaston.
Donations can be made to the Humane Society or a charity of choice.
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