William "Hootie" Eugene Bone

William “Hootie” Eugene Bone, 89, passed away Thursday, April 5, 2018. He was born June 7, 1928 in Nash County to the late William and Betty Winstead Bone. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Opel Batts Bone; brothers, Tiny, Roy and Atlas; sisters, Ruth, Maggie, Mattie and Myrtle. Eugene lived a life of service for his family, church and community. His father died when he was 3, so he grew up knowing the meaning of hard work and fortitude. But he also grew up with a love of sports, and he was good at them. He played high school basketball and baseball. His love for baseball took him to play for the Saint Louis Cardinals. He even married his high school sweetheart, Opel, at home plate, under a tunnel of batts, where he then pitched one game of doubleheader. One of the high lights of his career was playing baseball with Willie Mays, while in the Army. Eugene served his country from 1952-1954, as a corporal AUS. It was an honor and a privilege. He was always proud to stand as a veteran. Eugene worked as an engineer for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad and then later the CSX for 31 years. During this time, he began playing golf and continued even through this week. He won many trophies and especially enjoyed the train trips to Florida with his family. Even though he was busy, Eugene always had time for his family. He was a super gardener and we enjoyed having vegetables all year round. Hootie was a great cook too. He always made sure we had extras to take home. His granddaughter, Elizabeth, was the apple of his eye. While working, Hootie also served his community. He was a little league coach, and for over 20 years a high school referee and umpire. During these years, he also became an Elk, a shriner, and a Mason. Hootie loved Jesus, and he loved Morton Church. He served as a deacon and elder. He was the church treasurer for 40 years. He enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels. But his greatest joy was singing in the choir for over 50 years. Singing with Elizabeth was very special. He shared the gospel by song. He was a “Traveling Troubadour”, singing wherever he went. He led a singing group, at the nursing home on Raleigh Road, for over 25 years. Hootie was a faithful servant In all that he did. We know that Jesus welcomed him home with, “Well Done”. He leaves to cherish his daughter, Debbie Woolard and husband James; sister-in-law, Essie Ellis and husband Phil; granddaughter, Elizabeth Landen and fiancé Daniel Overton; nephew, Danny Ellis and special friend, Dora Hathaway. Visitation with family and friends will be Sunday, April 8, 2018 from 6:00-7:30 PM at Cornerstone Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held Monday, April 9, 2018 at 11:30AM in the Chapel of Cornerstone Funeral Home with Rev. Mary Todd officiating. Burial will follow at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. Cornerstone Funeral Home is honored to be caring for the Bone family and words of comfort may be shared at www.cornerstonefuneralhomeandcremations.com Cornerstone Funeral Home 1052 South First Street, Nashville, NC 27856.

Tributes

William "Hootie" Eugene Bone

June 7, 1928 - April 5, 2018