William "Bill" Robertson "Bill" Wainwright

William "Bill" Robertson Wainwright of Salisbury, MD, passed away peacefully at the age of 100. Born on November 21, 1924, in White Haven Maryland - affectionately known by locals as "Muddy Hole" - Bill lived a full and meaningful life rooted in service, family, and quiet strength.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Dollie Wainwright; his beloved daughter, Linda Hurley and his son-in-law, John Hurley of East New Market, MD; his sister-in-law and husband, Bernice and Lester Steele; and his brother-in-law, J. Samuel White.

A proud graduate of Wicomico High School, Bill answered the call of duty during World War II, enlisting in the U.S. Army in January of 1942 and serving as a Technician Fifth Grade with the 1891st Engineering Aviation Battalion. He trained at Ohio State University before being deployed to the China-Burma-India theater - an experience he considered one of the proudest accomplishments of his life. A decorated veteran, Bill was awarded seven Campaign Battle Stars, five Theatre Citations and, in 1995 was awarded a Chinese War Memorial Medal from the Taipei government, as a testament to his bravery and commitment. He was a true representative of the "Greatest Generation".

Upon returning to civilian life, Bill began working with the Railway Express delivering packages. He then went to work for T.L. Ruark & Co. as a salesman. He later joined Central Supply, eventually Branch Electric, where he worked as a Sales Manager for over 30 years. Known up and down the Eastern Shore and in Delaware, Bill was often sought out for his expertise in lighting/electrical design and his dedication to his customers.

He married the love of his life, Betty Lou White, in June of 1947, and together they built a life rich with family, faith, and friendship. He was the devoted father of the late Linda Hurley (John) of East New Market and Wm. Ronald "Ronnie" Wainwright (Michelle) of Salisbury, and the proud grandfather to granddaughters, Susan Hurley Truitt (Michael) of Hurlock, Ashley Hurley Christensen (Sean) of Salisbury and Mallory L. Wainwright of Salisbury; and grandson, Wm. Ross Wainwright of Salisbury, with whom he enjoyed the rare gift of a shared birthday. His joy only deepened with the arrival of his great-grandchildren: Adalyn and Emmett Truitt of Hurlock; Aiden, Chloe, and Sophie Christensen of Salisbury, and another Christensen great-grandchild expected in September.

A lifelong member of Wicomico Presbyterian Church, Bill served in many capacities including as a Deacon and on various church boards. He was a proud member of The Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, where he upheld the values of service, integrity, and fraternity; Salisbury Elks Lodge #817; and was a dedicated Boy Scout troop leader for many years - each role a testament to his commitment to community and character.

He was known for his beautiful rose bushes and lovingly remembered by his family for his signature "Bill" burgers, homemade veggie soup, and chicken and dumplings. Throughout his life, Bill and his wife, Betty Lou, traveled extensively, visiting six continents and every U.S. state. One of his most memorable adventures was a trip to Russia with the group, Mayors Across America, during which he was a guest of the country and toured Moscow and St. Petersburg.

To his grandchildren, he was affectionately known as the "Grandaddy Taxi", always on call with a smile and willing heart to shuttle them to their many activities.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 78 years, Betty Lou Wainwright; his son, Wm. Ronald Wainwright (Michelle); his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many family friends.

A graveside service for family and friends will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Wicomico Memorial Park in Salisbury at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill's memory may be made to Wicomico Presbyterian Church, where he faithfully served for many decades, or Coastal Hospice Foundation of Salisbury.

Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home, 501 Snow Hill Road, Salisbury, MD 21804.