William C. Kellum (Will), 76, of Hayes, left his earthly home to go to his heavenly home on Sept. 23, 2017.

He was a native of Achilles, a member of the Union Baptist Church, and a retired waterman.

Will enjoyed the simple things in life and loved to fish and be outdoors. On a Sunday morning Will could be found outside reading his Bible or tending to his garden which he treasured. Will also enjoyed telling stories about old times. His gentle smile and willingness to help others was a blessing to all of those who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eliza Ellen and Arthur Kellum; his daughter, Flora Kellum-Lemanski, and his siblings, James, Adolph, Linda-Carol, Rosella, Virginia, Louise, Estelle, and Shirley.

Survivors include his wife, Alverta Kellum, who has been separated for 26 years; his loving son, William C. Kellum Jr. and Mary; his grandchildren, Trisha, Gavin, Dakota; great-granddaughter, Rose, and his siblings, Hallie-Bell, Barbara and Clarence, and Carlton and Diane.

He will be greatly missed by a host of special friends and family, Mary Ann Hall, Bubba and Sherry, Brenda and Jerry, Debbie and Raymond, Lois and Charles, Barbara and Lewis, Collin, Bristy, Easton Ray, Jessie, Travis, Nate, Jeremy, Robert and many more nieces and nephews.

He was laid to rest on Sept. 27, 2017. A private graveside service was held at Bethany United Methodist Church, conducted by Pastor Bill West.

Also thanks to the Radiology and Oncologist departments at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital, Gloucester, for such wonderful care.