William Louis Bumgarner

William Louis Bumgarner, age 79, of the Locust Creek Community, Sylva, NC, passed away at the Homestead in Clyde, NC, Monday, March 7, 2016. He was born November 21, 1936 in Jackson County, NC, to the late Joseph and Hattie Worley Bumgarner.  He is survived by his wife of 49 years and 9 months, Judy Scott Bumgarner.

He was preceded in death by three brothers, Jack, Alvin and Robert, two sisters, Sallie Bumgarner and Evelyn Lupo; and one nephew, Logan Bumgarner.

He retired from Western Carolina University as a Ground Maintenance Supervisor.

In all situations, Bill was a quiet, pleasant and patient man, rarely complaining, always smiling.  Bill was dedicated to his family.  He took care of his mother, sister, and brother and his in‑laws Robert and Inez Scott.

He loved to be in the woods with his wild animals. His favorite past‑time was on his farm tractor or on his riding lawn mowers.  Bill was a perfectionist in everything he did, even taking care of injured and abandoned animals.  He was always looking for ways to help the sick and elderly.  He would buy food or donate wood from his farm.

His favorite homes to visit were those of Mattie Buchanan and Ann Sanders. Special thanks to his good neighbors and friends Doug and Machelle Samuels, Earlene Deitz, Johnny Brooks, Margie Arrowood, Rose Garrett, Butch Rhinehart and Scottie Buchanan.

Graveside services will be held Saturday, March 12, 2016 at 3:30 pm at Watauga Baptist Church Cemetery, with Rev. Mike Farmer and Rev. Wesley Price officiating.  Pallbearers will be Ed Scott, Danny Keener, Allen Mashburn, Melvin Mashburn, Jonathan Painter, Dwight Cassada and Norris Clouse.  Honorary pallbearers will be Johnny Brooks, Sam Deitz, Butch Rhinehart and Scottie Buchanan.

The family will receive friends from 1:30 to 2:30pm Saturday at Bryant‑Grant Funeral Home.

Bryant‑Grant Funeral Home is serving the Bumgarner family.  Online condolences may be made at bryantgrantfuneralhome.com.