September 12, 93, LaGrange
On Monday morning, September 12, 2016, William Cruse, 93, of LaGrange, moved to his Heavenly home while surrounded by his family at Wayne Memorial Hospital.
William was born in Wayne County on May 13, 1923 to the late William Joseph Cruse and Mattie Nance Cruse. He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Nancy Gray Cruse. His first and favorite occupation was a farmer, and many of his happiest times were spent atop one of his many prized tractors on the family farm. He will always be remembered for his love of a good practical joke whether done to him or by him as well as his true love of family, friends, life, work and family get togethers. William was a true sportsman who was most comfortable outdoors in the woods fox and rabbit hunting. In his later years, William enjoyed going to Wilber’s Barbecue with his wife, Nancy, to enjoy a good plate of barbecue along with his friends at the family table.
William was a role model who exhibited a great work ethic to his family and friends. He was loved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed. William shared many wonderful stories and teaching experiences with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was always the first person to respond to anyone in need. For over 65 years, William was a member of Clingman Street Church of God where he was instrumental in many of their ministries. As a charter member of United In Christ Church, he was a strong stabilizing force in all church operations and functions.
A service remembering the life of William will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at United In Christ Church with Rev. Ira Williford. Interment will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 15, 2016 at Wayne Memorial Park.
William will be remembered by his children, JoAnn C. Summerlin and husband Aldon, Faye C. Williams and husband Eddie, William Earl Cruse and wife Mary, and Glenda Cruse Lockerby and husband Daniel, all of LaGrange; his grandchildren, Daryl Anderson and wife Shelly, Lisa Carter and husband Burl, Lynn Watson and husband Horace, Angie Sutton and husband Mark, April Brown and husband Eric, Andrew Lockerby and Danielle Lockerby; and great-grandchildren, Jordan Anderson, Jaxon Anderson, Carlie Carter, Logan Grant, Ava Watson, Courtney Worth, Madison Brown, Garrett Brown, Liam Watson.
William is also survived by his sisters, Evelyn C. Ham of Goldsboro, Jessie Combs of Maryland, and Dorothy Sutton of LaGrange; and several nieces, nephews, and step-grandchildren, as well as some very dear friends.
In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Alease Mozingo, Peggy Tyson, Landora Lancaster and Beulah Stroud; and brothers, Milton Cruse and Jimmy Cruse.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to United In Christ Church, 1314 Patetown Road, Goldsboro, NC 27530.
The family will receive friends Wednesday one hour prior to the service and immediately following the service at United In Christ Church. At other times, the family will be at his home.