Our Heavenly Father had something for William "Bill" Oliver Hedgepath, Jr., to do at the age of 91, and after a brief illness at the Heritage at Lowman Home, White Rock, SC, he was called home Tuesday, July 14, 2015. Born in Shelton, Fairfield County, SC on July 5, 1924, he was a son of the late William Oliver Hedgepath, Sr., and Leola Elizabeth Dickerson Hedgepath. The family moved to Prosperity where Bill received his education. He was a veteran of the US Army and US Marines Corps and served in the Pacific Theater during WWII, driving a lumber truck to military bases. Prior to going into service, Bill worked for Prosperity Lumber Co., hauling lumber to military bases, including the Charleston Naval Yard and Camp Croft in Spartanburg.

After he returned home, he went to work at Nabisco Cracker Company. There he met the girl in the office, Evelyn Hollis. On April 30, 1948, they were married and made their home in Columbia. Bill worked with Post Engineers at Ft. Jackson for 33 years, retiring as a supervisor. A faithful member of Earlewood Baptist Church, Bill served as deacon, on various committees, drove the church bus, and was an active Sunday School member. He was also a member of the Richland #39 and Dutch Fork #402 Masonic Lodges, and loved trains. He was very proud he had the opportunity to visit the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Evelyn Hollis Hedgepath; a son, Robert Joyner of Florida; grandchildren, Shelly and Robin Joyner of Florida; great-grandchild, Miya Grace. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four half-brothers; and one half-sister.

The funeral service for Mr. Hedgepath will be held at 2 o'clock, Friday, July 17th at Earlewood Baptist Church with The Rev. Evan Smith officiating. Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 1 o'clock. Memorials may be made to Earlewood Baptist Church, 2930 River Drive, Columbia, SC 29201. Shives Funeral Home, Colonial Drive Chapel, is assisting the family.