Deacon William King

God’s Appointment

Deacon William (“Bill”) King age 76 was born on January 25, 1943 to the late Willie and Zelma King.

A Time to Live

William was born in Rosedale, MS to the union of Willie E. King and Zelma Bovan.  He confessed salvation in Christ as a teenager at St. Stephens Baptist Church in Julius, Arkansas. 

William was a laborer in the South and after relocating to Michigan started his career at Auto Specialties in St. Joseph, Michigan and went on to various other jobs.  After forty plus years in the workforce, he officially retired in 2007.  Even after retiring he continued to be active in the workforce by working contractually with Berrien County.  He was known as a reliable and dependable worker.

In 1992, William married the love of his life Ophelia Ross.  As a union, they were faithful members of Tabernacle COGIC.  He served as a Deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, a member of the usher board and numerous other roles within the church.  He was an avid Bible scholar and teacher. He loved going to musical programs and listening to his siblings, “The Gospel King Brothers”. 

He loved going fishing every week with his brothers and his longtime friend Elder George Harvell.  He was innovative, always seeking new ways and ideas to improve the home and daily living.  He loved going to family events, especially the dinners.

A Time to Rest

On September 5, 2019 at 7:06 p.m., he went home to be with the Lord.  He was surrounded by family members and friends singing and praying.

A Time to Remember

William leaves behind to cherish his memories, his loving wife, Ophelia King, his daughters, Juliette (Juju) Norwood, Quandra Michelle (Meme) Robinson, Tammy Germany-Ross, Sylvia Shannon; sons, Byron King and Charles Ross Jr.  Two brothers: Mansfield (Dorothy) King, Otis (Bertha) King all of Benton Harbor; Two sisters: Thelma Tillman and Dorothy L. King of Benton Harbor; Two sister in laws: Erthalean King and Queen King of Benton Harbor. He also leaves 8 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

William was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers; Robert King, Willie King Jr. and Freddie B. King, two sisters: Willie Mae and Annie B King

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