Bill Christopher

Bill R. Christopher, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026, in Burlington, NC, at the age of 89, after a year-long illness. Born on December 31, 1936, in Greensboro, NC, Bill was the cherished son of the late Amos Boyd and Alberta Christopher.

Bill graduated from Summerfield High School in the class of 1956 and went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Air Force for four years. After his service, he joined his father at A B Christopher Plumbing, where he worked diligently until the company merged with A C Corp in 1978. Bill successfully ran the plumbing and mechanical divisions until his retirement in 2003.

Sports were a significant part of Bill's life from an early age. He played in an adult softball league and was an avid golfer, passions that brought him joy and camaraderie throughout his life.

Bill was a devoted family man, married to Shirley Anne Gardner for 69 wonderful years. Together, they built a loving family, including their children: Pamela Lynn Christopher Russell, the late Alan Ray Christopher, Stephen Keith Christopher (wife Phyllis Browning Christopher), and Susan Gardner Christopher McLean (husband Robert "Bob" McLean). He was a proud grandfather to Ashley Russell, Brendan Russell, Ethan Cox, Emily Christopher, Josh Somers, and Marisa Oliver, and a doting great-grandfather to Abigail Russell, Raegan Cox, Damon Ford, Derrick Chidester, Kenzleigh Somers, Joslynn Somers, Dawson Oliver, and Dallon Oliver.

Bill was preceded in death by his son, Alan Ray Christopher. His surviving family and friends will forever cherish his memory and the love he shared with them.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his caregivers, Ernest, Victoria, and Bobbie, who were a vital part of his last year with us. Bill's church family at Bellemont Methodist Church was also very important to him in his daily walk of faith.

A service to celebrate Bill's life will be held at Bellemont Methodist Church on April 18th. Visitation will begin at 2 p.m., followed by the service at 3 p.m., officiated by Dr. Richard Booker. Refreshments will be served in the fellowship hall after the service.

Bill R. Christopher will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his community, and his faith. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and integrity that will continue to inspire all who knew him.