Bill Coward

Mr. Coward graduated from Marion High School, attended McDowell Technical Community College, Western Piedmont Community College, Duke University and Western Carolina University. He was named Citizen of the Year in 1980. He was an electrician and a member of the McDowell County Rescue Squad and was Chief three times; a member of the Civil Preparedness Committee; a Red Cross Volunteer; and a Habitat for Humanity Volunteer. He served on the Boy Scout Board of Review for 25 years. He was an EMT instructor and evaluator for the State of NC. He was a member of the Emergency Management Committee; worked with senior citizens; was a foster parent; and served with McDowell County Council on Status of Women. He was a certified scuba diver with the McDowell County Rescue Squad; an EMTP with the McDowell County EMS; a member of Marion Family Moose Lodge; an amateur radio operator; a tutor; and worked to rescue stray animals.

He will be remembered most for his kindness and his love for everyone, especially his wife. He was known to many as the “gentle giant.” He always reached out to those in need, and his kindness will always be remembered by those he helped. “God made a few good men and Bill tops the list.” Lillie, Jake, and Harvey waited by Rainbow Bridge and they crossed over together.

Mr. Coward is preceded in death by his parents, Jim & Cartie Coward.

Mr. Coward is survived by his wife, Ruth Moore Coward; daughter, Louane Keeter & husband Kermit of Raleigh; sons, Billy Coward of Marion, Marty Coward & wife Penny of Marion, Joseph Williams (who lovingly cared for him) & wife Lisa of Old Fort; daughter, Debra Thompson & husband Roy of Knoxville, TN; son, Jimmy Williams & wife Kim of Marion; 16 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, September 19, 2011 in McCall Memorial Chapel at Kirksey Funeral Home with Rev. David McHale and Joe Williams officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow in McDowell Memorial Park.

Flowers are accepted and appreciated. Those desiring to make a memorial donation are asked to consider Alzheimer’s Association 31 College PL #D320 Asheville, NC 28801-2644 or McDowell County Rescue Squad PO Box 883 Marion NC28752.

Words of comfort may be shared with the Coward family at www.kirkseyfhmarion.com