William Courtney "Bill" Pollok

1925 - 2025

William "Bill" Courtney Pollok

Jul 20, 1925 - Feb 1, 2025

With deep gratitude for a life well-lived, the family of William "Bill" Courtney Pollok announces his peaceful passing on February 1, 2025, at the age of 99, at Brookridge Retirement Community in Winston-Salem, NC. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Bill lived a life defined by love, service, and joy.

Born on July 20, 1925, in Danville, VA, to Berkeley Anderson Pollok and Hettie Baugh Pollok, Bill embodied the values of his upbringing-kindness, generosity, and a steadfast commitment to others. He earned a degree in Architectural Engineering from Virginia Tech and remained a lifelong Hokies fan, cheering for his alma mater at every opportunity.

Bill proudly served his country during World War II as part of the United States Navy, flying on torpedo bombers in the Pacific. He later received a commission in the U.S. Navy Corps of Engineers, an experience that shaped his remarkable career and character. After his service, Bill made Winston-Salem his home, where he became a pillar of the community through both his professional achievements and his selfless volunteerism.

Professionally, Bill excelled as Sales Manager for Salem Steel Co. and later as Vice President of Structural Steel Sales for the parent company of Carolina Steel Corporation. He also served as Chairman of the Virginia-Carolinas Structural Steel Fabricators Association, leaving a lasting mark on his industry. Beyond his career, Bill was a dedicated leader and active member of numerous organizations, serving as President of the Twin City Lions Club, President of Sales and Marketing Executives in Winston-Salem, and Assistant Chief Usher at Centenary United Methodist Church. A man of quiet service, he also was a volunteer driver for the American Cancer Society, helping others in their time of need.

Bill married the love of his life, Nancy Ann Carter, who was also from Danville, VA, in September of 1950, and they shared 68 wonderful years together until her passing in 2018. They enjoyed playing golf together, and going on countless golf trips with friends to Pinehurst, the mountains of NC, Florida, Arizona, California and even Hawaii!

He was an avid tennis player during his adult years and could be found on the courts of Forsyth Country Club every Saturday morning. A lover of all sports, he especially enjoyed spending time playing and watching sports with his son, Ed, while also always making time for cherished father-daughter moments with Diane. One tradition he and Diane carried into his later years was always eating pancakes on Saturdays. Bill loved his pancakes and from the time Diane and Ed were little they would always make a point to have them every Saturday. After Nancy Ann passed, Bill and Diane would get pancakes together every Saturday at Mama Zoes on Reynolda road. It became something they both looked forward to every week, and anyone else was always welcome to tag along.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Diane Pollok Davis (Bo); his son, Berkeley Edwin Pollok of California; and his beloved grandchildren, Sarah Haynes (Chris), Kaycie Karpinski (Kevin), Jaclyn Taylor (Ben), and Alex Pollok. He was adored by his six (!) great-grandchildren, Owen Haynes, Hudson Haynes, Carter Karpinski, Caroline Karpinski, Rosie Taylor, and Landon Taylor whose middle name is "William," in honor of his great-grandfather. He took great delight in the fact that all three of his granddaughters, and all of his great-grandchildren, lived close by in Winston-Salem, visiting their "Dad Dad" often and getting to spend holidays and birthdays with him as well. Bill also leaves behind his devoted caregiver, Jake Guarantano, who became his best friend, and affectionately referred to Bill as "Mr. P." For the past six years, Jake not only provided care but also companionship, ensuring Bill never missed a Braves game or a good laugh.

Bill's warmth and compassion left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was known for his infectious laugh, his gentle soul, and his unwavering ability to put others before himself. He truly exemplified the spirit of a southern gentleman and lived a life full of love and grace. If his 99 years were any example, then perhaps kindness, generosity and humor are the keys to longevity!

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 7th at Centenary United Methodist Church, with a reception to follow in the auditorium. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers who lovingly supported Bill in his later years, and the special care and attention he received from Cindy with Trellis Supportive Care.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's name may be made to a charity of the donor's choice, in honor of his generous and giving nature.

Bill's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was, and always will be, a light in the lives of his family and friends. Condolences may be shared online at www.salemfh.com.

Salem Funeral & Cremation Service

120 S. Main St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101