William Girdler

William Girdler (October 22, 1947 – January 21, 1978), also known as Billy Girdler, was an American filmmaker. In a span of six years, from 1972 to 1978, he directed nine feature films in such genres as horror and action. Girdler also wrote and produced three of his features, Abby, Sheba, Baby and The Manitou.

Life and career Girdler was born in Louisville, Kentucky. He made his first films with a home movie camera at the age of 8 and by the age of 23, produced his first film, Asylum of Satan. The body was flown from Manila to Los Angeles for a memorial service. His remains were later flown to Louisville, where he was buried in Cave Hill Cemetery.

Personal life Girdler was married twice. He was first married to Barbara Peter (1945–2013). They had two children: a son, William Brent Girdler Jr, and a daughter, Barbara Laurice Girdler. Girdler was later married to photographer Avis Ann Smith, until the time of his death in 1978.