William "Fenton" Covington Jr.

William "Fenton" Covington, Jr., beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away February 20, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion to his family and community. Born May 14, 1949, Fenton was the first grandchild of Marion Fenton Covington, whose maiden name he proudly carried. He was a lifetime resident of Alamance County and dedicated his life to dairy farming, embodying a strong work ethic with a deep belief and faith that he was a steward of God's creation.

Fenton is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Eva Albright Covington, daughter Tina Covington Gordon (Jeff), son Kyle Covington (Suzanne), and grandchildren Cameron Gordon, Zachary Gordon, Claire Covington and Graham Covington. He is also survived by sisters Jeanie Kernodle and Kathy Lee. He was predeceased by his parents, W.F. (Bill) Covington and Nancy Pickard Covington, and his special aunt, Martha Lee Covington, affectionately known as Aunt Dee.

A graduate of Southern Alamance High School, Fenton went on to graduate from the North Carolina State University Agricultural Institute in Dairy Husbandry in 1970. After returning to the family farm, he brought innovations such as artificial breeding, waste management, pesticide control certification, and computer technology to the operations. Fenton enjoyed tractor pulling, winning first place several times with his 1456 International tractor, and collecting trophies from competitions across North Carolina and Virginia during the early years of his marriage.

Fenton served as District Supervisor for Alamance County Soil and Water Conservation for 14 years (1995-2009) and was a founding member and board director of the Presbyterian Home of Hawfields, serving with dedication for 42 years. He was a lifetime member, Deacon, and Elder at Hawfields Presbyterian Church and loved his church, serving faithfully as long as he was able.

He treasured the role of Dad and Papa above all.

Fenton's faith was central to his life, reflected in some of his favorite scriptures: "Great is His faithfulness; His mercies are new every morning" (Lamentations 3:23); "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1); "Be strong and courageous...for the Lord your God goes with you" (Deuteronomy 31:6); and "Be joyful in hope; be patient in affliction; be faithful in prayer" (Romans 12:12)

A Celebration of Life will be held at Hawfields Presbyterian Church on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., officiated by Rev. David Ealy. Following the service, interment will take place at Hawfields Cemetery. The family will then receive guests at a reception held in the Hawfields Church Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Hawfields Presbyterian Church, 2115 S NC Highway 119, Mebane, or AuthoraCare Collective, 914 Chapel Hill Rd, Burlington, NC 27215.