You can’t keep a good man down

Bill Porter, well-known disabled Watkins consultant, was an inspiration to many out to build their own Watkins businesses.

Because he touched so many lives and was a great friend to Watkins, Chief Executive Officer Mark Jacobs informed the organization that long-time Watkins Consultant Bill Porter passed away December 4. He was 81 years old.

Jacobs, who had the honor of meeting Porter during his Watkins career, called him “a man of great character.” His amazing perseverance in the face of a challenging physical disability inspired countless Watkins consultants throughout the United States and Canada. They too became successful by following in Porter’s footsteps.

The award-winning movie Door to Door about Porter's struggles brought his story to the public, and moved people all over the world. Well-known actor William Macy played Porter in the movie. His mother, who never doubted her son’s capabilities, was played by Academy Award-winning actress Helen Mirren. Porter’s caregiver was played by Kyra Sedgwick, lead actress in the TNT crime drama The Closer.  The film is available through Netflix.

Because of his disability, many questioned if Porter could become successful in building his own Watkins business at a time when the majority of company sales came from “pounding the pavement” and ringing many doorbells. Porter proved the naysayers wrong by not only succeeding, but by being selected as Salesman of the Year at an annual Watkins awards banquet.

“I am honored to have known Bill,” said Jacobs. “He will be missed by many.”