Bill was born in Lynchburg on February 18, 1945. He graduated from E.C. Glass High School, earned a bachelor's degree from Campbell University, then served in the US Navy. He received his civilian pilot training at Sierra Academy of Aeronautics in Oakland, CA, and was employed as a professional pilot for 24 years. He earned an ATP and CFI certification and accumulated over 9,000 hours of pilot time.
Bill was raised in a Christian home, and often the radio was tuned to Bible preachers. For years he followed The Gospel Hour with Oliver B. Greene. While in the 6th grade, during Oliver Greene’s series from Ephesians 2, Bill heard, "For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast." He realized conviction and called on the Lord for forgiveness and salvation, which the Lord gave as He promised. Very significant to Bill was that the Lord used him on several occasions to win others to salvation.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Raymond Duff, Jr., and Mary Conner Duff. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Carol Lunsford Duff, and son Nathan both of Lynchburg, sister Betty Woodall of Evington and twin sister Anne King (Clarence) of Wytheville, VA. Also four sisters-in-law: Eula Anderson of Jetersville, Janice Lewis of Crewe, Betty Bowman (Don) of Green Bay, and Judy Werner (Art) of Spout Spring, along with numerous nieces and nephews and special extended family, Crystal and Ellie.
He was a member of Thomas Road Baptist Church for more than 30 years, Heritage Baptist church for 10 years, and attended numerous other churches during his lifetime.
Our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Emily Jenkins for her compassionate care during Bill’s nearly six-year journey with multiple myeloma. Also a special thank you to our wonderful home-health nurse, Sara Davies, who became like a member of the family.
A graveside service will be conducted at 1:00 PM Saturday, July 1st at Orchard View Cemetery, Green Bay, VA by Ronald Gallagher, who married Bill and Carol.
Those wishing to do so might consider donating Bibles to The Gideons International in Bill’s memory.
