William Hardin Lifsey, 85, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 11, 2025 surrounded by his family.
Born in Flint, Michigan on June 18, 1939, William (Bill) was the son of the late William Asbury Lifsey and the late Marjorie A. Johnston. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 60 years, Jane; his daughter Heather (Bob); son Bill (Amy); grandchildren Benjamin, Brayden and Conner, as well as his siblings, Betty, Bob and Bonita.
Bill lived a life full of purpose and adventure. He was a devoted husband and a wonderful father, always putting his family first, and a true friend to many. His marriage was a shining example of love. Bill and his beloved Jane were inseparable, their bond marked by generosity, humor, intelligence, warmth, and an unmistakable spark that was evident to everyone who crossed their path.
Bill was a humanitarian and leader. A 1964 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, he proudly served in the Navy for nearly 15 years; he later traveled the world as a commercial pilot. Wherever he went, he took time to study and speak the local language, eager to connect with others in a more personal way.
Bill found another passion volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, contributing to the construction of 742 homes in the United States and overseas. He was involved in both Jimmy Carter Builds and Habitat for Humanity Disaster Response for the Southeast region. His life was full of adventure, travel, and generosity – truly a fabulous life well lived.
He always said he wanted to leave this world better than he found it and he most certainly did. He shaped countless lives through his genuine kindness, engaging presence, and the way he always made people feel truly loved. He was full of energy, intelligence, warmth, and laughter. His stories were legendary, and he always had a way of brightening someone’s day with a smile, a tale, or a thoughtful word.
Bill was a warrior, a hero, a gentleman, and a humanitarian. He will be dearly missed by many, but he will live on in the hearts he touched and the lives he helped shape. He was always warm, always welcoming, and always smiling. He was defined by his compassion and a touch of mischief.
As for the ones who love and will miss you dearly, we would like to say thank you for showing us how to live fully, love deeply, and give generously. You have left this world far better than you found it.
A memorial service will be held for Mr. William Hardin Lifsey at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at St. Peter By-The-Lake Episcopal Church, 8433 Fairfield Forest, Denver, North Carolina 28037.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests those wishing to express sympathy consider a donation in Bill’s memory to one of the following Habitat for Humanity organizations:
Disaster Response: https://www.habitat.org/our-work/disaster-response
General donations and Jimmy Carter Build donations: https://www.habitat.org/
Condolences may be made at www.greenefuneralhome.net