William Garland Cairnes

William (Bill) Garland Cairnes, 85, of Asheville, NC passed away on December 13, 2025. He was born in Macon, Georgia and was preceded in death by his parents William Crawford Cairnes and Jennie Harkins Cairnes.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 61 years, Edeltraud (Ellie) Kroker Cairnes; two daughters, Shavon Cairnes and Barbara Cairnes Bridges (Hugh); a grandson, Brandon Bridges (Caroline). He is also survived by a brother, Donald David Cairnes and a sister, Patricia Jane Millard; nieces Ronda McKinney and the late Debbie McSwain, and nephew David Millard.

Mr. Cairnes worked in the Aerospace Industry the majority of his career and retired from NCI Incorporation/GE Aerospace after decades of service. He served his country in the U.S. Military, where he met the love of his life and soulmate Ellie while stationed in Germany. He was a decorated Master sharpshooter with both pistol and rifle and served as Military Police and Supervisory Cook. Bill was a music enthusiast and spent a lot of his spare time making CDs and flash drives of music for his family and friends. He was an avid jazz buff and collected many guitars over his lifetime. He enjoyed playing the guitar and going to jazz concerts over the years. Bill also had a love of golf, playing with friends, and inspiring his grandson to take up the sport as a toddler. In his latter years, he could be found riding the golf cart and watching his grandson Brandon play. Bill rode motorcycles for many years and racked the miles riding with friends and family. Most of his rides, he would have his favorite passenger Ellie riding behind him. He also did many charitable rides on his many motorcycles. Bill served the church in many capacities including being a Deacon, Welcome Greeter, helping in the food pantry, and also in a construction capacity for shut-ins and those who needed help. He never failed to miss an opportunity to be a blessing to those in need. Bill gave the best back scratches and belly rubs to all of his grand-dogs. His smile, laugh and boundless love will be missed by all that knew him.

A funeral service will be held at Beverly Hills Baptist Church on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. A visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to the service. Dr. Buddy Corbin will officiate. A burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road is assisting the family.