Paul Bearer (William Moody) Passes Away at Age 58

William Moody, best known by the stage name of Paul Bearer, has passed away today (March 5) in Mobile, Alabama. He was 58 years old. Moody is survived by his two sons, Michael and Daniel.

The legendary Moody was best know for his time spent as Mark Calaway's (The Undertaker) manager in the WWE. During his 34-year career in wrestling he also managed legends such as Rick Rude, Kane and Steve Austin.

Moody joined the World Wrestling Federation in 1990. He had a real life degree in mortuary science and had certification as a funeral director and embalmer. Vince McMahon decided to draw upon Moody's real life experience and paired him with Mark Calaway to create both The Undertaker and Paul Bearer characters. 

Bearer would be involved in some of the biggest angles of the 1990's in the WWF. The feud between Kane and The Undertaker during 1997-98 is still considered one of the most memorable in history.

Moody ended up being involved in the WWE for 23 years, making occasional returns to the company over the last few years. 

WWE has made an official statement on its website regarding the passing of Moody.

WWE is saddened to learn of the passing of William Moody, aka Paul Bearer. Moody made his WWE debut in 1991 as the manager of The Undertaker and went on to become a memorable part of WWE over the course of the next 20 years.

Our deepest condolences go out to Moody’s family, friends and fans.

Truly a sad day for all fans of the WWE.