William "Bill" Paul Van Gieson, Jr.

William Paul Van Gieson, lovingly known as “Bill,” of Clayton, North Carolina, passed away on October 10, 2026, at the age of 75. He leaves a legacy of compassion, integrity, faith, and devotion to his family and community.

A wake will be held from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM, Friday, October 16, 2026 at McLaurin Funeral Home, 12830 Clayton Boulevard, Clayton, North Carolina with a funeral mass beginning at 12 noon at Sait Eugene's Catholic Church, 608 Lions Club Road, Wendell, North Carolina. A mass of Catholic burial will follow at Knollwood Cemetery, in Clayton, North Carolina.

Born in Norfolk, Virginia, Bill spent his first months in an orphanage before being adopted by William and Hilda Van Gieson. He grew up in Little Falls, New Jersey, on Woods Road, built by his family’s business, surrounded by cousins and neighborhood friends. These early years shaped his lifelong appreciation for family, friendship, and community.

While attending William Paterson University, Bill met Alice, the love of his life. Their college romance grew into a 54-year marriage rooted in devotion and the Holy Sacrament of Matrimony. Together, they placed God at the center of their home and exemplified lifelong commitment.

Bill began his career at the Boys and Girls Club of Paterson. After earning a Master of Public Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University, he worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and MetLife before becoming Vice President at Health Net. He later began a second career as a trusted financial planner with Equitable, continuing his commitment to helping others.

His dedication to public service extended more than 15 years through his roles as a Council Member and Planning Board Member in Wayne Township, New Jersey. He served with humility, integrity, and civic pride, always seeking to strengthen his community. A true American patriot, Bill loved his country and believed deeply in freedom, service, and community.

Family remained at the heart of Bill’s life. He and Alice raised three children, Allison, Lauren, and Ryan, and welcomed five grandchildren: Christopher, Luke, Riley, Peyton, and Colton. He coached youth soccer, attended countless swim meets and lacrosse games, and celebrated every milestone. Known as “Poppy,” he was a devoted grandfather, mentor, and trusted friend whose unconditional love left a lasting mark.

One of Bill’s proudest moments was officiating the wedding of his son Ryan and Ashley, an honor that reflected the faith and devotion defining his own marriage to Alice.

Bill treasured family time at Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club, especially sunny days and lazy-river rides with Alice while watching his grandchildren grow. His beloved beach home on Long Beach Island (LBI), New Jersey, also held a special place in his heart, offering peaceful days by the ocean and cherished family memories.

Bill’s gentle spirit and exceptional kindness touched everyone he met. He welcomed lifelong friends and new acquaintances alike, making each person feel valued and cared for. His faith in Jesus Christ guided his life through compassion, humility, forgiveness, and grace, as he trusted in Christ’s promise of eternal life.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Alice; children, Allison, Lauren, and Ryan; grandchildren, Christopher, Luke, Riley, Peyton, and Colton; and extended family, Christopher Leszkowicz, Ashley Van Gieson, Christopher Terranova and dear friends.

His legacy rests in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the love he gave so freely.

Bill lived with kindness, loved without condition, served with integrity, and believed with all his heart.

May he rest in the eternal peace and everlasting love of Jesus Christ.

“I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live.”

— John 11:25

The family’s request in lieu of flowers that donations be made in memory of William Paul Van Gieson Jr to: St. Jude’s Children Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/donate or to the American Lung Foundation: https://donate.lung.org/page/FUNKQNJLKBU?_lang=en-US

Online condolences may be made to the family at: www.mclaurinatpinecrest.com.

McLaurin Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the Van Gieson family.