Bill Henard

Bill "Jingles" Henard, 83, of Kingsport, died at his home on Friday evening April 22, 2011 surrounded by his family after a courageous fight with brain cancer. Bill was born in Kingsport, where he resided all of his life. He was a 1947 graduate of Sullivan High School, and served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. He retired from Mead Corp. in 1992 after 40 years of service as a machinist. Bill was known for having served as Santa Claus along with his wife as Mrs. Claus for 36 years throughout the community. He was a charter member of Community Fellowship Baptist Church in Gate City, VA. Bill was a wonderful role model and a great father; he knew how to life live to its fullest.

Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Frances Reed Henard, of the home; two sons, Robert Henard and wife, Lorna, and Morris Henard and wife, Franciea€"of Kingsport; 7 granddaughters, Amanda Hensley and husband, Brian, Shauna Walsworth and husband, Andrew, Jessica Henard, Heather Burton and husband, David, Charlie Baker and husband, Ben, Miller Henard, and Billie Henard and 1 grandson, Justin Henard; 3 great-grandchildren, Elijah & Jonah Hensley and William Burton; and several cousins.

The family will receive friends from 2 - 5 p.m. Sunday April 24, 2011 at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, Kingsport. Funeral services will be held at 5 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. John Sheppard officiating. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Monday in East Lawn Memorial Park. Employees of Henard Metal and Jack Almany will serve as pallbearers. Special music will be provided by his granddaughters and grandson-in-law.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Building Fund of Community Fellowship Baptist Church / 614 Broadwater Avenue / Gate City, VA 24251.