Obituary of Bill Ensley

On Wednesday, March 22, 2023, our favorite Southern Gentleman, William Fletcher Ensley (Bill), passed away. He was 89 years old, just one-week shy of his 90th birthday. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Donna and his parents, Fletcher and Nettie Sue Ensley. Bill was born and grew up in Rutherfordton, North Carolina. He grew up in the country, tending animals, hunting, fishing, and spending as much time out of doors as he could. After graduation from Mt. Vernon High School he enlisted in the Navy. He was assigned to the USS Los Angeles. Bill enjoyed his time in the military. His experience with engineering and electrical work led him to his future career. After discharge, he returned to North Carolina. He completed two years at North Carolina State University. He went to work for Rockwell Corporation in Downey, CA, where he eventually became Director of Facility Services. During his time at Rockwell, he worked on a variety of projects, many of them requiring various secret security clearances. One of his favorite projects and one that he was most proud of was the work he did on the B-1 Bomber. Donna and Bill retired to Lake Havasu City, AZ and built their dream home. Bill was very active in the community. He helped start a new chapter of Over The Hill Car Gang Car Club, served on the Elks Scholarship Committee, was active in The Deuces Car Club, and lent his support to a variety of community projects. Bill is survived by his two sister, Sibyl Lee of Boiling Springs, North Carolina, Francis Hope Honeycutt of Lewisburg, Tennessee, nephew and wife Bill and Marcie McDaniel of Forest City, North Carolina, nephew and wife Ben and Anne McDaniel of Boiling Springs, North Carolina as well as several great and great great nieces and nephews. Bill was a friend and mentor to all that knew him. He will live on in our hearts and memories as the True Southern Gentleman that he was. The family would like to extend their thanks and gratitude for all the kindness and expressions of sympathy. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Beacon of Hope Hospice in the name of William F. Ensley.