William Brewer Sr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bill Brewer, a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, dedicated Christian, and proud Navy Veteran. Bill was born February 20, 1933 in Hamlet, NC to Catherine Berthania Brewer and was the sole survivor of eight siblings, a testament to his resilience and strength of character.

Bill dedicated his life to service - first to his country, then to his family. In 1955, he married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Joan Marie Brewer. Together they built a life of love, devotion, and adventure as Bill served 30 years on active duty in the United States Navy. His career took them to 14 countries across the globe including Japan and Korea. During his service he assisted the Navy’s top Admirals and received distinction in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. His unwavering dedication to the Navy and his country made him a true American hero, known for his integrity and tireless work ethic. In 1978, after his second tour in the Pentagon, Bill retired from the United States Navy as a Senior Chief Petty Officer.

After his retirement he continued to serve his community by assisting with the development of Cape Fear Community College’s first computer lab, as well as teaching classes at both CFCC and UNCW. Bill was also an instrumental member of College Acres Baptist Church where he served as Treasurer, taught Sunday school, and created and delivered recordings of sermons to those members unable to attend the service. Bill also enjoyed gardening, and traveling - including multiple cross-country and international trips with his wife Joan, and often their children and grandchildren.

Above all, Bill’s love for his family and his commitment to his Christian faith were his guiding lights. He was preceded in death by his son William Dellinger Brewer, Jr. and is survived by his loving and devoted wife Joan Marie Brewer; their daughter Jo Maureen Dawson and her husband Brad, along with their three children and three grandchildren; and their son Raymond Carl Brewer and his wife Sheila, along with their four sons and one grandson.

Bill’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his faith and example of selfless service will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.

Visitation will be held at Coble Funeral home located at 1155 Shipyard Blvd, Wilmington, NC at 3:00 pm on Thursday, March 20, 2025 with funeral service immediately to follow at 4:00PM. He will be interred at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, NC on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 12:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, Bill and Joan would feel honored with donations to the Disabled American Veterans Association of your choice, or Wounded Warrior Project.