Wednesday, January 15, 2025

William Francis ‘Mr. Bill’ O’Reilly, 76, voracious reader and fair-weather Duke fan

William Francis ‘Mr. Bill’ O’Reilly

WILMINGTON — William Francis O’Reilly, 76, affectionately known as “Mr. Bill,” went on to join his heavenly father Sunday, July 19, 2020.

He is survived by his wife, three sons, two grandchildren, extended family and extensive friends.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Bill served during the Tet Offensive in Vietnam. His rank: SPC (specialist) in the 563rd Medical Company at the 2nd Surgical Hospital in Chu Lia. For years, he served as a deacon and taught the scriptures at Cape Fear Christian Church, Wilmington. Bill was a voracious reader and a fair-weather Duke fan.

He threw his own celebration of life party weeks before his passing, which was attended by a large crowd of friends and family. Bill’s legacy is one of faith in God, devotion to Christ, and love for others. He will be dearly missed. A small family gathering is planned at the home he shared with his wife, Catha.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Cape Fear Christian Church, Building Fund; Vigilant Hope, a ministry serving Wilmington’s homeless; or the SECU Family House, Chapel Hill.

Share online condolences with the family at Coastal Cremations.

Related Articles