Rev. William E. Naill Sr.'s Obituary
Rev. William E. Naill, Sr., age 92, passed away Sunday, August 30, 2020 at his daughter’s home in Bozeman, MT. He was born September 1, 1927 in Cumberland, MD to Charles and Elizabeth (Eyler) Naill. Rev. Naill served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and was stationed on the USS McGinty, USS Swasey, USS Lipan, and the USS Altair. Following an attack on one of the Destroyer Escorts, he and many shipmates survived 13 days floating at sea prior to their rescue. He was also stationed for a time at Guantonamo Bay, Cuba and on Guam. Despite an injury aboard another vessel, when a depth charge lifted the ship out of the water, Bill completed his tour of duty on Guam, then re-enlisted prior to being transferred stateside for medical rehab. Rev. Naill, granted disability, was honorably discharged in 1946 after 2 years 4 months of service. He married Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Rigney on October 18, 1947 in Baltimore, MD and she preceded him in death on January 13, 2020. Rev. Naill was a long-time member of the former Eastwood Church of the Nazarene. He also pastored Church of the Brethren for 16 years. Survivors include 2 children, William E. (Ginerva) Naill, Jr., Pamela (Kevin) Vasey; 6 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. Besides his precious wife, Betty, he was also preceded in death by his parents, 1 brother, George Naill and 1 sister, Betty Fuller. A Graveside Service will be held 2:00 PM Friday, September 25, 2020 at Sunrise Memorial Gardens, 2188 Remembrance Drive, with Rev. Aaron Gregory officiating. Military Honors will be offered by the U.S. Navy Honor Guard and the Muskegon County Council of Veterans of Foreign Wars. Memorial Contributions may be directed to the family. Arrangements handled by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444. Sign the guestbook online at www.sytsemafh.com
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