DECEMBER 4 – William “Bill” Robert Metcalf, son of the late Nathan and Dellie Metcalf, was born in Marshall County, North Carolina on April 27, 1917, one of 11 children. He took Jesus by the hand and walked through the gates of Heaven on Sunday, December 2, 2012, at the age of 95. He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Katherine Hankins Metcalf, and a son, CW3 James Stewart Metcalf formerly of Prince George.

Mr. Metcalf was a veteran of WWII having served in the Army Air Corp. in South Africa and Italy. He accepted Christ at an early age and joined Sharon Baptist Church of Green Bay, where he was a faithful member until his passing. For many rewarding years he was a very active member of Burke Lodge 147 AF&AM, Burkeville, and Southside Shrine Club where he was well known for his tireless collection and donation of aluminum can tabs for the Shriners Hospitals For Children. He was a life member of VFW Post 7059 Farmville and served with Rice Volunteer Fire Dept. for as long as his health allowed. He is also a longtime member of Bethlehem Chapter 150 OES Crewe.

His first love was his family and he was always available to help or give advice, even if it wasn't what you thought you needed. He nurtured deep friendships through attentive listening to people and was loved for his stories. Mr. Metcalf was especially known for his “family” of “Rhode Island Red” chickens which at times numbered 40. “Jack of all trades”, he was an aircraft mechanic during WWII, operated a motor grader, often building roads, with VDOT, where he was promoted to supervisor before retiring with 25+ years. He also farmed tobacco and garden vegetables, raised chickens for food and eggs and was an avid fisherman and hunter. He “tinkered” with small engines on mowers, tillers, weed eaters and chain saws.

He is survived by his children, Robert Steve Metcalf and wife, Judy of Rice, Doris Taylor Hambright of Rice and William Stanley Metcalf and wife, Gale of Richmond; son-in-law, James Preston Hambright of Richmond; daughter-in-law, Christine M. Metcalf of Spring Grove; seven grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, a great-great-grandchild that is due in January 2013; three step great-grandchildren; three sisters and numerous loving nieces and nephews as well as many longtime and cherished friends.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 5, at 3 p.m. at Sharon Baptist Church with interment in the church cemetery.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday (tonight), December 4, from 6-8 p.m. at the Shorter Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sharon Baptist Church, Southside Shrine Club or the Masonic Home of Virginia.

Shorter Funeral Home, Farmville, is serving the family. www.shorterfuneralhome.com