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Bill's pumper truck in black bunting with his church in the background.
American Legion Pike Post 197 members honoring Bill at the door.
The flag at Moody-Daniel Funeral Home for the final coming home courtesy of Jimmy Totten.
By Editor Becky Watts
ZEBULON - William C. (Bill) Dials II, age 67, died peacefully on Friday, June 10, 2016, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Bill was a man of integrity, character, and patriotism, spending his life faithfully serving his family, community, and country. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army, having served two tours of duty in the Vietnam War. Bill spent his 38-year career with the United States Postal Service, retiring in 2007. He was a long-time and devoted member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, and served his local community through the American Legion Post 197 and the Pike County Volunteer Fire Department for over thirty years, holding many roles.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Helen Dials, his sister, Sandra Kay Smith, and his brother, Howard Michael Dials. Bill is survived by his wife: Bonnie A. Dials; daughter and a son-in-law: Kriss and Mark Barronton of Alpharetta, GA; sons: Matthew Dials of New York, NY and Nicholas Dials of Boston, MA; grandchildren: Benjamin and Kate Barronton. He is also survived by his sisters: Andria Sheriff, Kim Phillips, Melissa Dials, and Hannah Diehl; and a multitude of treasured friends.
Honoring Bill
Moody-Daniel Funeral Home took care of Bill's services and his family, and many in the community came out to show their support to Bill's family as they grieved. Bill gave his time freely in our community in so many ways. On Monday, June 13, the community gathered one last time to honor Bill and his family at his funeral service.
The American Legion and the Pike County Fire Department showed their thanks in many ways during visitation and at the funeral. American Legion Pike Post #197 Commander Bryan Richardson recounted Bill's service record, friends gathered in a salute outside of the church after the service, and Legion members lined the walkway as mourners gathered at the graveside.
Bill's old pumper truck was draped in black bunting for the ride to the gravesite. A 21 gun salute and the playing of Taps at the graveside honored his military service.A final call was also given for Bill from the Fire Department that he loved and volunteered his time with for more than thirty years.
Here is the legacy of a man who loved his family and his community. His story is told in pictures from the funeral service.
Photo courtesy of Elaine Mangham.
Members of the American Legion show respect for one of their own.
The Final Call is broadcast for this fallen fire fighter.