LINCOLNTON, GA - Mr. William Crawford Cartledge, Jr., 94, died Tuesday, December 20, at the Lake Crossing Health Center in Appling, GA.

Most people knew him as "Billy," though many old friends called him "Bull," a nickname he picked up playing high school football. Mr. Cartledge was born in Lincoln County to the late William and Viola Cartledge  on April11,1928. After a stint in the Navy, where he served in the South Pacific, he returned to Lincolnton and married Hollie Williamson, of Washington, GA, on April 7, 1950.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Hollie, and is survived by sons Tony (Susan) of Apex, NC, Jeff (Melinda) of Hartwell, and Don (Cindy) of Lincolnton; grandchildren Russ Cartledge of Augusta, Laura (Dustin) Dyer of Merritt Island, FL, Grant (Kristen) Cartledge of Lincolnton; Kristen (Jake) Hampton of Chickamauga; Ashton (Chuck) Byrne of Lincolnton, Samuel Cartledge of Sanford, NC; and eight great-children: Lucas and Addy Dyer (Laura), Hudler and Fulton Cartledge (Grant), Rhett and Asher Byrne (Ashton), and James and Maggie Hampton (Kristen). She was predeceased by granddaughter Bethany (Tony).

Billy was a faithful member of Lincolnton Baptist Church, where he served for many years as clerk for the Sunday School and often assisted in maintenance or repairs of the church facilities. He was a quiet man who preferred actions to words, providing a strong role model for his three sons.

Billy was a hard worker who spent most of his career running the "Pilot Plant" at Milliken Mills in McCormick, SC. He and Hollie maintained a large garden for as long as they were able, often sharing produce with friends. As an avid supporter of the Lincoln County Red Devils football team, Billy was an active member of the booster club, ran the concession stand for several years, and rarely missed a game until poor health relegated him to listening on the radio. Billy was an excellent craftsman who enjoyed building things and refinishing furniture. He often made wooden chairs, tables, or toys for his grandchildren, who knew him lovingly as "Daddy Bill."

The family will receive friends at Lincolnton Baptist Church on Tuesday, December 27, from 1:00 to 1:45 p.m., followed by a graveside service at Lincolnton City Cemetery with Rev. Tripp Goodwin officiating.

Pallbearers are Russ Cartledge, Grant Cartledge, Samuel Cartledge, Dustin Dyer, Jake Hampton, and Chuck Byrne.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Lincolnton Baptist Church, P.O. Box 357, Lincolnton, GA 30817.

You may sign the family's online guestbook at: www.reesfuneralhome.net .

Rees Funeral Home, 195 North Peachtree St., Lincolnton, GA 706-359-3222 would like to thank the Cartledge family for your trust and confidence to serve you during this difficult time.