William L. Archie Sr.

1930 - 2022

"Coach" William "Bill" Archie, Sr. was born on December 25, 1930, in Welch, West Virginia to the late Jessie and Sallie Archie. He was preceded in death by his sister Jessie Mae Edwards and his nephew Calvin Saunders. Archie graduated from Elkhorn High School where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball. He then earned his B.S. Degree in Health and Physical Education from West Virginia State College and his M.A. Degree from West Virginia University. In 1954, after receiving his education, Archie was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Army during the Korean Conflict. After serving in the Army, he began his coaching career at his alma mater, West Virginia State College, and subsequently moved on to coach at Southern University, under the direction of the great A.W. Mumford. While coaching and teaching at Southern University, he also met and married his lovely wife of 61 years. After his two coaching opportunities, Archie made his move to Virginia to become an adored member of the Norfolk State University community. From 1961-1966, Archie coached football, became the head football coach, and established a swimming team at Norfolk State University. From 1970-1984, Archie was the Athletic Director for Norfolk State University. Throughout his tenure at Southern University and Norfolk State University, he served as a college professor for over 40 years until his retirement. Even though football and swimming were some of his greatest accomplishments and interests, nothing could top his greatest love and achievementâ€"his family. He is survived by his wife, Mayola Archie ("Bird"); a daughter, Pamala K. Archie-Jones; one son-in-law, Clifton Jones, Sr.; a son, William L. Archie, Jr. ("Larry"); one daughter-in-law, Anya D. Archie; and six grandchildren, April M. Jones, Esq., Felecia E. Harris, Clifton Jones, Jr. ("CJ"), Kyle E. Archie, Connor L. Archie, and Camryn D. Archie; and a host of cousins, family, and friends. His strong legacy will continue to live on through the unforgettable memories that we shared and the unmatched love we will always have for him. God truly blessed us with an angel, and we are all privileged to have known him in our lifetime. We honor and celebrate his 91 years of life! A memorial service will be held, 12 noon, Sunday, March 27, 2022, at Metropolitan Funeral Service, 7246 Granby St., Norfolk, VA 23505.