Clarence “Bill” Franklin Dunlap, 94, of Madison, passed away on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at Ancora Compassionate Care in Wentworth.
Bill was born in Rockingham County on May 14, 1930, to the late James and Pencie Mae Hall Dunlap. He was a faithful member of Clearview Baptist Church and attended as often as his health would allow. Bill was an amazing man who lived his life selflessly serving the Lord and all the people around him. Over the years, “Papa” as he was called and his wife Rachel served the community as foster parents, providing a temporary home and unconditional love for more than 75 children. He worked in textiles for most of his life and also worked for the Rockingham County Department of Social Services. Most days at home, you could find him listening to his favorite hymns or reading in his Bible. Bill retired from the textile industry over 30 years ago. He was an avid outdoorsman and he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening, often having one the greatest looking gardens you’ve ever seen. When it came to fishing, he could out catch anyone who would tag along with him. Always willing to share, when the garden produced, everyone had fresh produce. Some of his other hobbies included splitting wood and going out to eat with his family. Bill loved his family and friends with everything he had. He was an amazing husband, father, grandpa, and a wonderful friend. Bill was one-of-a-kind and he never met a stranger. He always had something kind or encouraging to say. He was admired by all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Rachel Stephens Dunlap; his son, Jason Dunlap; brothers, James, Helen, Lewis, Guy, Herbert and Elbert Dunlap; and sisters, Lucille, Gracie, Louise, and Clara.
Surviving are his son, Tim Dunlap of Madison; his special daughter, Jo Beth Jones; his grandson, Josh Roberts and wife Amanda; and his great grandson, James Fuqua.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Ancora Compassionate Care, PO Box 281, Wentworth, NC 27375.
Ray Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Bill Dunlap and all are invited to share memories or offer condolences at www.rayfuneralhome.com
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