William Fredric Handley

1949 - 2025

William Fredric Handley Grimesland - With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of William Fredric Handley, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated community servant, who departed this life on Thursday, September 11, 2025. A celebration of William's life will take place over the weekend at Wilkerson Funeral Home in Greenville. Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed by funeral services on Sunday, September 14th beginning at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow in Pinewood Memorial Park. Born on November 21, 1949, to the late William Handley Jr. and Anne Handley, William grew up in Goldsboro, North Carolina, where he graduated from Goldsboro High School and met the love of his life, Rebecca Brogden Handley. Their marriage of 54 years was a testament to enduring love and partnership. William proudly served in the Army National Guard for 14 years before embarking on a successful career in finance, including studies at the UNC Center for Banking and Finance in Chapel Hill. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to Greenville, where he founded WAC Corporation of Greenville. Together with his son Corey, William built a thriving business that has provided commercial landscape services across Central and Eastern North Carolina and Virginia for over 45 years. A true servant leader, William gave generously of his time and talents to the community. He served as a volunteer firefighter with Eastern Pines and Simpson Fire Departments and most recently held the role of President of the Black Jack Fire Department. His commitment to public safety extended to the role as Treasurer of Pitt Greenville Crime Stoppers, where he served for more than a decade. He was also a faithful member of Black Jack Original Free Will Baptist Church. William found joy in the outdoors, spending time with their 3 dogs, and treasured time spent with his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Rebecca, and their children: Amy Thomas (Robby), Wendy Hills (Michael), and Corey Handley (Suzanne). He was a proud grandfather to Drew Thomas (Brooke), Zach Hills, Makayla Hills, and Whitney Handley, and great-grandfather to Daisy Thomas. He is also survived by his sisters Ruth Richter (Butch) and Scottie Krupa (Ken), as well as close family friend Viea Cuthrell (Van), and his compassionate caregivers from Visiting Angels, Tameka and Tina. William's legacy of love, service, and integrity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. In honor of William's lifelong dedication to public service, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Pitt Greenville Crime Stoppers or your local volunteer fire department. Arrangements by Wilkerson Funeral Home & Crematory, Greenville, NC. Online condolences at www.wilkersonfuneralhome.com