William Savage

1932 - 2025

William A. "Bill" Savage of Hendersonville, NC, died on December 4th, 2025, at the age of 93. Bill was born at home in Johnstown, NY, on February 25, 1932. He attended St. Patrick's Catholic School until 8th grade, then graduated from Johnstown High School in June 1949. Soon after, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Air Force as a Radio Repairman. Upon graduation, he was sent to Nagoya, Japan where he spent two years operating and maintaining a radio relay station in support of the Korean War. After his discharge in 1953, Bill used his G.I. Bill to earn his Bachelor's degree and New York State teacher's certification at Albany State Teachers College, now named SUNY Albany, later earning his Master's degree from Union College. Thus began Bill's career in education spanning 33 years, 23 of which were in the classroom. He often referred to the remaining 10 years, 1970-1980, as the best of his career, as Principal of Corinth Central High School. Bill is survived by his dear wife of 39 years, Joanne P. Savage of Hendersonville, NC, and children Donald Savage (Judy) of Johnson City, TN, Mary Savage of Hadley, NY, William Savage (Della) of San Jose, CA, John Savage (Natalie) of Atlanta, GA, Monica Savage of Knoxville, TN, stepson Kevin Snow (Mary Michelle) of Atlanta, GA, 32 grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Donald Delbert and Frances Ida Savage; his son, Thomas Savage; his brother, Donald (Doc) Savage and his wife Blanche; and his sister, Jean Kentris and her husband Donald Kentris. Interment will be on Wednesday, December 10 at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, Black Mountain, NC. No flowers or charitable gifts are requested. Arrangements are by Shuler Funeral Home of Hendersonville, NC.