William Joseph "Bill" Creech, also affectionately known as “Billy Joe,” led a life dedicated to his family, his country, and his career. A loving husband, father, and a proud Navy veteran, he built a life of service and commitment in North Carolina.

Early Life and Education

Bill was born on August 26, 1941, in Durham, North Carolina, as the third child of William Leslie Creech and Pauline Barbour Creech. He grew up alongside his siblings, Kenneth Ray Creech, Keith Gray Creech, and Linda Gail Creech. Bill completed his early education in his home state, graduating from Southern High School in 1959.

Military Service and Building a Family

In 1961, Bill answered the call to serve his nation, enlisting in the United States Navy. He dedicated four years of his life to military service, honorably serving until 1965.

While in the Navy, Bill married Giovannia Maie Crawford on November 17, 1961, in Hillsborough Township, Orange, North Carolina. Giovannia, born in 1941 in North Carolina, was the daughter of Clarence and Mary Anderson Crawford.

Bill and Giovannia built their family, welcoming three children into their lives. They faced the profound sorrow of losing their daughter, Lisa Jo Creech, who passed away at birth on April 16, 1964. They were also blessed with Kimberly Hope Creech and William Joseph Creech Jr.

Career and Community

After his military service, Bill embarked on a distinguished career with IBM, where he worked for an impressive 30 years. Beyond his professional life, Bill was a man of faith and a dedicated member of Durham Memorial Baptist Church.

Later Years and Legacy

William Joseph "Bill" Creech Sr. passed away at the age of 78 on June 8, 2020, at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina. He was laid to rest in Oak Grove Memorial Gardens, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, devotion, and patriotism. His life, marked by service to his family and country, continues to be remembered by those who knew and loved him.