William Roberson

William Acy Roberson, Jr. COLUMBIA - William Acy Roberson, Jr., beloved Columbia actor and artist, died Saturday unexpectedly. He had recently been diagnosed with cancer. Mr. Roberson and his wife of 34 years, Hi Bedford Roberson, own and operate Classical Glass on North Main Street near the trestle. They were urban pioneers, establishing their business and living in Earlewood long before its revival. Mr. Roberson was known statewide, nationally and internationally for Classical Glass, whose stained glass adorned hundreds of churches, residences and businesses. Bill was equally acclaimed for his acting in films and on stage. He was perhaps best known for his cameo role with Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump. Sitting next to Forrest on the park bench, Bill listened while Forrest explained that life is like a box of chocolates. He performed in other notable movies such as The Patriot, Patch Adams, Radio and Leatherhead, the last two in which he and Hi both had roles. He had stage credits in more than 200 productions and commercials, including the starring role in the long running Riverbanks Zoo commercial, "Wild Things." He also was well known on stage in Columbia and prior to that in Columbus, Ohio, where he and Hi founded a professional theater, the Columbus Ensemble Theater. He found his passion for acting early in life and it was his joy throughout his life. Bill was a gentle person who took great pride in his craft. He started Classical Glass in 1993. Fort Jackson commissioned him for two windows for two soldiers who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. His work adorned churches in almost every county in South Carolina, including many rural and historically black churches. In all, he designed and built more than 4,000 windows. He was born in Washington, N.C., on August 21, 1958, the son of the late Billy Acy Roberson and June Garrett Roberson, who survives him. In addition to his mother and Hi, other survivors include two brothers, Troy Roberson and Kelly Roberson, also of Washington, N.C. He attended East Carolina University and the University of Alabama. Bill's legacy will live on in the devotion to his wife and family and how he embraced people, his many friendships and his love of pets. A private ceremony will be held with the family. The family asks for privacy during this difficult time. Those who wish to honor Bill can make a donation to Pets Inc. in his name. Please sign the online guestbook at www.dunbarfunerals.com.