William Bedford (Bill) Birdsong

Passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 2nd, 2021, in Alexandria, VA. He is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years, Gail Birdsong; sons Darryn Richardson (Carla) of West Memphis, AR, and Jason Richardson (Tammy) of Cordova, AL; sisters-in-law Charlene Birdsong and Bette Hollis; six grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. He is preceded in death by his brothers James Hollis and Ben Birdsong.

Born in Sarasota, Florida to military parents, Bill lived in many places as a child, including Japan. After working on his Master of Science degree at Georgia Southwestern College in Americus, Georgia, he spent many years doing manufacturing engineering work in various locations prior to taking early retirement. During his years living in North Carolina, Bill served as a Councilmember for the Town of Butner, and Board Member of the South Granville Water and Sewer Authority.

He loved all things aeronautic, piloting small aircraft and sharing his bird’s eye view with friends and family. The engineering, research, and business skills he honed were put to good use in most everything he did.

Bill was a man of faith, active at FBC Butner, where for several years he taught children’s Sunday School classes with Gail. With his kind, gentle spirit, and dry humor, Bill brightened the lives of many people. His bigger-than-life approach was evident in his career, family, personal, and faith family relationships. He will truly be missed.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 11th, from 12:30 to 1:45 pm in the Family Life Center of First Baptist Church Butner, prior to the funeral service at 2:00 pm in the Sanctuary. This celebration of Bill’s life will be conducted by Dr. Charlie Bryan. Interment directly following at Carolina Memorial Gardens in Creedmoor. Flowers are kindly accepted or memorial contributions may be given in his honor to First Baptist Church, 200 West D Street, Butner, NC 27509, or mailed to Post Office Box 44, Butner, NC 27509.