William Boyd

NEWARK, Del. — William Henry Boyd, Jr., passed away peacefully in Newark, Delaware, on December 27, 2025.

Born and raised in Henderson, North Carolina, he graduated from Porter Military Academy and earned a degree in Chemical Engineering from NC State University in 1951, where he participated in ROTC. Shortly after graduation, he married Anne Cadieu, the love of his life.

He served two years stateside in the U.S. Army before receiving an honorable discharge as a 1st Lieutenant.

The couple settled in Portsmouth, Virginia, where William worked as a chemical engineer for Virginia Chemicals until retiring in 1983. They moved to Hamlet, North Carolina, where he served as Chief Operator of the Hamlet Water Plant until final retirement in 1994. In 2021, they relocated to Newark, Delaware, near their son's home.

A devoted family man, William was predeceased by his wife, Anne; parents, William Sr. and Jessie; and brother, Cary. He is survived by his son, Bill (Diane); daughter, Lou Ann (Mark); four grandchildren (Laura, Matthew, David, Steven); and two great-grandsons.

Known for his frugality, handyman skills, love of cooking and classical music, humor, and unwavering integrity, he prioritized caring for his family throughout his life. Services will be held in Rockingham, NC, in the spring; details will be announced later. For a full obituary, visit: www.dohertyfh.com.