William “Bill” Henry Blake, age 75, departed his earthly life Thursday, November 11, 2021 at the Brian Center in Wallace.
He was born September 21, 1946 in Wilmington to Neil Wesley Blake, Sr. and Frances Russell Blake. In addition to his parents Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Blake.
Bill is survived by his wife, Sandra “Sandy” Blake; daughters, Rebecca Ross and her husband, Preston and Katherine Blake; brother, Russell Blake (Peggy), Neil Blake (Ann), Bryan Blake (Jenny), James Blake (Jeannie); and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins from coast to coast.
After serving honorably in the US Navy, William remained a true patriot to our country.
Bill grew up in the Wrightsboro community and graduated from New Hanover High School in 1964. He attended Wilmington College until he “surfed” his way into the US Navy, where he served from1965 to 1969. In the Navy Construction Battalion he became an engineering aide. Upon completion of Navy service, he returned to Wilmington College and earned his Professional Surveyor’s License in 1976. His greatest love in surveying was to be in the woods swinging a bush axe, which he did through 2020.
Bill enjoyed horses, the mountains, and the ocean. Two of his horses are buried on the farm. When he traveled to the mountains, he was always looking for a back road to follow in hopes he would find someone local to converse with. Wrightsville Beach was his favorite place to surf and swim. He liked country music and beach music and could dance the night away.
Bill took great pride in his family and was especially proud of his girls, who both grew up on the farm he purchased in 1976. His greatest joy was knowing that these two girls love God and their neighbor. Bill was a member of Burgaw United Methodist Church, but his true gift was serving outside the walls of the church. He was always willing to help other Veterans and anyone in need. He was a member of the American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the Island 5 Seabees.
The family will receive friends 3-5 p.m. Saturday, November 13, 2021 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home in Burgaw.
Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, November 14, 2021 at Burgaw United Methodist Church with Pastor Matthew Hayes conducting the service. Private family burial will follow in Johnson Smith Cemetery.
Memorial gifts may be given to Pender Christian Services, PO Box 84, Burgaw, NC 28425, a charity of your choice, or plant a tree in his memory.
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.quinnmcgowen.com
Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Burgaw.
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