William Ross Oliver

William Ross Oliver Jr. 86, of Supply, NC passed away on March 19, 2026. Bill was born on August 8, 1939 in Chicago, Illinois to the late William Ross Oliver Sr. and Marie (Peterson) Oliver.

He graduated from Bowen High School on the south side neighborhood of Chicago in 1957. Bill continued his education at Augustana College in Rock Island, Il earning a BA degree in accounting and later earning a MS degree in Recreation & Park Administration from Indiana University.

After graduation he married the late Jan (Garriock) Manchester September 1,1962. Together they had 3 children.

Bill started his career in Dallas, TX working for the Dallas Parks Department for 4 years. After Dallas they moved to Waukesha, WI where he became the director of Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department until he retired after 33 years.

Upon retiring the city of Waukesha gifted him with the key to the city and honored him by naming a park after him; the William R. Oliver Youth Sports Complex. Bills driving force was the adage, "if you make it fun for the kids, the parents will follow", creating an environment enjoyable for those of all ages and physical capabilities.

Bill later married Edna (Bennison) Oliver on October 16, 2010. Later moving to Seven Lakes, NC where they enjoyed a passion for golf and then moved to Supply, NC. Together, they built a life of playing golf, traveling to Ireland (where he had dual citizenship), and spending time with his kids, grandchildren and great grandchildren. One of Bill's proudest moments was getting a hole in one on St Patrick's day wearing his Ireland shirt for the occasion.

Bill is survived by his wife Edna, his brother Larry (KiYon), son William R.III (Tammie), son Gary, daughter Kim (Chris- deceased) Buchholtz. Bill has 11 grandchildren, Dabney (Kyle), William R. IV, Alexis, Lane, Nicole (Nolan), Joe, Kaycee (Daniel), Sean, Beau, Leo and Austin. His six great grandchildren, Aniella, Ryder, Ezra, Brexton, Levi and Caspian

He is preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, two brothers-in laws and his son-in law.

The family will have a private service.