William Barber Thrall, Sr.

William “Bill” Barber Thrall Sr. passed away at his home on January 14, 2017 just one month shy of his 90th birthday. Bill was born in the District of Columbia on February 17, 1927. A World War II veteran, he served in the Army Air Corps and was stationed overseas during WWII.

Upon returning, Bill worked in the laboratory division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). He met Vivian Hill and was married shortly thereafter. After relocating in Williamsburg, he and his brother Richard “Dicky” started up the Thrall Brothers Paint Contracting business which was in operation for many years. Later, he became a realtor and received his broker’s license. Bill was a troop leader with the Boy Scouts (Eagles) at Bruton Parish Church Troop 103 and was inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame in 1974.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Vivian Ceceilia Thrall; his stepsister Barbara Jennings; his daughter Karen Thrall Holtz and son-in-law Richard L. “Butch” Holtz; his daughter Jo Thrall Turnelle and son-in-law Gene Turnelle; his son William Thrall Jr. and daughter-in-law Diane Thrall; five grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.

Visitation will be at the Nelsen Funeral Home on Wednesday evening, January 18th from 6:00 p.m.to 7:30 p.m. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 19th at 11 a.m. at the Williamsburg Memorial Park.