Hendricks Sr., William Tillman
William Tillman Hendricks died Saturday morning, October 4, after a long life of service to God, country, and family. At nineteen, he found the love and joy of his life, Virginia Ellen Harris. For all 69 years, his love for her never waned. Nor did his love for his sons, Bill, Bob, and Joe, or their families. As a father, he was strong and gentle, kind and generous. He warmly welcomed three daughters in law, Mary Lee, Victoria, and Heidi, five granddaughters, Margie, Joanna, Sarah. Ruth, and Mary, and ten great grandchildren, KK, Danny, Zachary, Liam, Andrea, Cristina, Linda, Daniel, Micha, and Alice. Family always brought out the sparkle in his eyes and the broad beam of his smile.
At eighteen, he answered his country’s call, joined the Air Force, and piloted B-17’s in World War II. Thirty years of distinguished service in the Air Force culminated when, as a Colonel, he coordinated all Air Force support to the Army in Viet Nam. But his most important service was to God and church. As he was transferred from base to base, he quickly would find a Baptist church, even in Saigon and France, where he helped start one. His tithe to God always came first. His Bible and the rug where he prayed were worn with use. Many a church member in need answered the door to see Mr. Hendricks glowing with the spirit of God and offering just the right gift, word, or fix-it job. After building with his hands a three-story house, he, never one to stay retired, served as the business manager for Glorieta Baptist Conference Center. His worn Bible said, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” He did.
A memorial service in celebration of the life of Bill Hendricks will be held at the Blacksburg Baptist Church on Sunday, October 12, 2014 at 2:00 PM. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Blacksburg Baptist Church, Land of Promise Fund, 550 North Main Street, Blacksburg, VA 24060.
Arrangements by McCoy Funeral Home, Blacksburg.