After the sinking of HMS Leopoldville, William Fox's remains were unable to be discovered, he was considered missing in action and presumed dead. He was soon memorialized along with the other unnamed soldiers and MIA men at the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-mer, France. He was also included in the memorialization of the S.S. Leopoldville in Ft. Benning, Georgia. 

His only listed beneficiaries after his death was his mother, Jennie Fox, and his brother, Charles Fox. 

After his death, Fox was awarded the Purple Heart, awarded for individuals who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. military. A Purple Heart is a solemn distinction and means a service member has greatly sacrificed themselves, or paid the ultimate price, while in the line of duty.