William G. Langley

William Gray Langley, 83, of Draper, Utah, formerly of Spring Lake, North Carolina, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 2, 2026. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend; his life was one marked by faith, service, humility, and devotion to those he loved.

William was born to the late David Askew Langley and Janie Gray Wheeless Langley on December 3, 1942 in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Besides his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, William Gray Langley II, and his brother, Alva Askew Langley.

William is survived by his devoted wife, Audrey Simmons Langley; daughters, Charlene Langley Hochstein (Kurt) of The Woodlands, Texas, and Amanda Langley Massey (Steven) of Draper, Utah; his cherished grandchildren, Isaac Hochstein, Ashlyn Massey, Brooke Hochstein, Karsyn Massey, Luke Hochstein, and Landrie Massey; sister, Donna Langley Brown of Spring Lake, North Carolina and will remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews.

William was raised in Spring Lake, North Carolina, where he graduated from Pine Forest High School. He went on to attend Atlantic Christian College in Wilson, North Carolina, where he was a proud member of both the track and basketball teams as well as the Stage and Script drama troupe. His early years were filled with energy, determination, and a love for teamwork-qualities that would define his life's journey. William served his country with honor as a member of the United States Army, where he became part of the elite Special Forces, the Green Berets. His dedication to service continued as a reservist and later through a distinguished 33-year career with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES). His commitment to integrity and hard work left a lasting impression on all who worked alongside him. A man of deep faith, William was a lifelong member of Spring Lake Presbyterian Church. His relationship with God guided his every step and shaped the way he lived-with kindness, humility, and steadfast devotion. He was also a proud 60-year Master Mason (33rd Degree), serving his communities through dual membership in Fort Bragg Lodge (Spring Lake, NC) and DeSoto Lodge (DeSoto, TX). His service through the Masonic Order reflected his deep-rooted desire to help others and strengthen his community. William's quiet strength and calming presence were a source of comfort to his family. His unwavering integrity and work ethic inspired his daughters, Charlene and Amanda, in their own careers and in motherhood. He led by example, teaching through action rather than words, and his influence will continue to guide his family for generations to come. William found peace and joy in the outdoors, especially through deer hunting, where the stillness of nature rejuvenated his spirit. In his younger years, he had a passion for cars-racing stock cars, attending races, serving as pit crew for close friends. His enthusiasm and interest in the hobby are carried on through his grandsons, who share his passion for working on cars.

William's life was a testament to faith, family, and service. His legacy of love and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial donations to The Masonic Home of Oxford, 600 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565.

There will be a visitation for family and friends on Friday, March 13, 2026 from 12:00pm until 1:30pm at Adcock Funeral Home and Crematory, Spring Lake, North Carolina. A service honoring William's life and legacy will follow Beginning at 1:30pm in the chapel at Adcock Funeral Home and Crematory. Burial will immediately follow the service at 3:00pm at LaFayette Memorial Park, Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, North Carolina.