Obituary of William A. "Bill" Penland, Jr.

WEAVERVILLE – William A. “Bill” Penland, Jr., age 93, of Weaverville, went to be with his heavenly Father, Tuesday, May 11, 2021, while in his sleep.

Mr. Penland was born June 1, 1927 in Buncombe County to the late William Anderson Penland, Sr., and Nora Ingle Penland; he was a resident of Buncombe County all of his life.  Junior served in the US Navy during World War II, and in the US Army during the Korean War.  He retired from Gerber Products after 28 years.  Junior sang with the Happy Rhythms Quartet (Bob and Ardeth Peek) for 28 years, and the Gospel Harmoneers.  He was a member and deacon of Coles Cove Baptist Church for over 60 years.  

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his three brothers, James, Richard, and Elmer; and three sisters, Martha, Blanche, and Elizabeth.

Surviving are his wife of 66 years, Edith Hensley Penland; two daughters, Debra Roberts and husband Bobby, and Renee Reynolds and husband Joseph; two sons, William Davey Penland and wife Rachel, and Jeffrey Penland of the home; five grandchildren, Christel Franco and husband Lorenzo, Heidi Harwood and husband Nick, Nathan Roberts and wife Trisha, Jaclynn Reynolds and Madison Reynolds; and six great grandchildren, Lorenzo Franco, Jr., Elijah Franco, Katie, Nicholas and Tanner Harwood, and Murphy Roberts.

His funeral service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, May 16, 2021 in Coles Cove Baptist Church, 393 Upper Flat Creek Road., Weaverville. Brother Junior Hollifield, Pastor Jeff Massey  and Reverend David Plemmons, will officiate. Burial will follow in Clarks Chapel Cemetery, Weaverville, with military graveside rites and “Amazing Grace” played on bagpipes.

For those who wish to pay their respects, Mr.  Penland will be available for viewing between 1:00 – 4:00  p.m. on Saturday, May 15, 2021 at West Funeral Home, 17 Merrimon Ave., Weaverville where the body will remain until placed in the church one hour prior to the service.  The family will not be present.

Per the NC Governor, masks are required inside the building.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Four Seasons Hospice and to his special niece Carolyn Ellison.

Junior is now singing in heaven.

For those who desire, condolences may be offered to the family under Mr. Penland’s obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.