Bill Flynn, Renowned Voice Actor for Anime, Passes Away
By Danica Davidson
August 15, 2025
The anime community is mourning the loss of talented voice actor Bill Flynn, who lent his voice to various beloved characters throughout his career. Born on September 9, 1938, Flynn passed away on July 4, 2025, at the age of 86. Also known as William Flynn, his contributions to the world of animation and beyond have left a lasting impact.
In his obituary, it was revealed that Flynn’s journey into acting began with a serendipitous encounter with the legendary actress Helen Hayes during his childhood. This chance meeting ignited a passion that transformed from a mere hobby into a full-fledged acting career. Initially, he found his footing in theater before making his way into film, television, and voiceover work. Over the years, he amassed an impressive portfolio, showcasing his versatility across various roles and solidifying his reputation as a cherished figure in the Dallas acting scene.
Beyond his acting pursuits, Flynn was also deeply committed to advocacy work for individuals with disabilities. He served as a staff educator at the Texas Rehabilitation Commission, where he made significant contributions to the education and empowerment of others. Additionally, he hosted a seminar series titled “Care and Feeding of Actors,” sharing his knowledge and insights with aspiring actors and industry professionals.
Flynn’s voice acting credits in anime are particularly noteworthy. He portrayed Kosaku Kotoishi in the heartwarming series Barakamon and voiced the beloved character Dr. Agasa in multiple films of the Case Closed franchise, including the first English dub of the series by Funimation. His talent also shone through in Gunslinger Girl, where he played Captain Rabollo, and in Hal, where he voiced Aranami. Fans of Heaven’s Lost Property will remember him as Grandpa, while his role as Friedrich IV in The Legend of the Galactic Heroes: Die Neue These showcased his ability to bring depth to complex characters. Additionally, Flynn is known for voicing Genzo in the Funimation dub of One Piece, a series that continues to capture the hearts of anime fans worldwide.
Flynn’s impressive voice acting career extended to numerous other anime series as well. He took on smaller yet memorable roles, such as Roy in Attack on Titan, Frey in D.Gray-man, Crux and Robaul in Fairy Tail, Captain Wada in Golden Kamuy, and Edmalis Falmuth in That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime. He also voiced the Mayor in Tsubasa: RESERVoir CHRoNiCLE, among many others, showcasing his range and dedication to the craft.
To honor his legacy, a memorial service for Bill Flynn is scheduled for August 16 at 11:30 AM, taking place at the Restland FH Memorial Chapel in Dallas. Friends, family, and fans are invited to pay their respects. The Restland Funeral Home has set up a dedicated website where people can share their well wishes and fond memories of Flynn, celebrating the impact he had on their lives and the anime community.
Flynn’s voice resonated with many, and his contributions to anime have allowed him to touch the hearts of viewers across generations. His work has not only entertained but also inspired countless individuals to delve into the world of voice acting and storytelling.
As fans gather to remember Bill Flynn, his legacy will undoubtedly continue to live on through the characters he portrayed and the lives he influenced. His dedication to the arts, advocacy for the disabled, and passion for education serve as a testament to his character and the mark he left on the world.
In the days and weeks to come, tributes to Flynn’s remarkable career will likely proliferate, reflecting on the joy he brought into the lives of fans and the respect he earned from his peers. His versatility as a voice actor, coupled with his commitment to encouraging others, makes him a memorable figure in the industry.
The anime community, while grieving the loss of Bill Flynn, also celebrates his achievements and the joy he brought to many through his work. From his iconic roles in series like One Piece and Attack on Titan to his advocacy efforts, Flynn’s contributions will not be forgotten. His ability to bring characters to life with his voice helped shape the anime landscape, allowing fans to connect with stories in meaningful ways.
In closing, the passing of Bill Flynn serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the impact that voice actors have on our lives. As we reflect on his legacy, let us remember the joy he brought through his performances and the positive change he championed in his advocacy work. From the vibrant worlds of anime to the hearts of viewers worldwide, Bill Flynn’s influence will continue to resonate for years to come.
For those wishing to explore more about Bill Flynn’s work and his contributions to the anime community, resources and tributes can be found across various platforms. Fans are encouraged to revisit their favorite shows and celebrate the moments that featured his incredible voice talent.
In a world where stories often unite us, Bill Flynn’s work will remain a cherished part of the anime tapestry, illustrating the profound impact that one individual can have on the lives of many.
