“The man who taught the world to sing has passed away.” Adage
We were saddened when we heard the news that our dear friend and trusted advisor, Bill Backer, recently passed away. Bill Backer was the Board President of the Piedmont Foundation and the advertising hall-of-famer renowned for the Coca Cola Hilltop Commercial.
We recently worked with Bill Backer on a film about the campaign in 1994 to stop Disney’s America, When Mickey Came to Town. He provided priceless strategy and counsel that helped capture people’s attention, create an emotional spark and sway public opinion against Disney. The movement to stop Disney’s plans to develop the first battlefield of the Civil War in Bull Run, Manassas into a historical theme park, would not have made the impact that it did without the brilliant mind and service of Bill Backer. We appreciate his friendship, his service and how he inspired us.
We feel honored to have walked with him and offer our deepest sympathies and prayers to the family of Bill Backer. Watch the powerful tribute from CBS News here.
A memorial gathering will be held for Bill Backer sometime this Summer. We will provide further information when available.