William Baynard

William Lee "Bill" Baynard, 85, passed away peacefully Tuesday afternoon, July 25, 2017 at his home, following a period of declining health. Born September 10, 1931 in Forest City, he was a son of the late Kinard Tillman and Lillian Saunders Baynard. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, James and Paul Baynard, and sisters Betty Baynard Martin and Frances Baynard Reepe. Bill had attended Appalachian State, Gardner Webb, Howards Business College, and had honorably served his country with the US Army during the Korean War. Bill retired from Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home in Statesville, where he was a funeral director for many years. He was a loving husband and father, an avid Tar Heel and George Jones fan, and an animal lover. Earlier in life, Mr. Baynard was very active in community affairs, including being charter president of the Optimist Club and the Full Gospel Business Men's Fellowship. A loyal member of Landmark Church of God, he was a former Sunday school teacher and Youth Choir director. He currently had served as an Elder, Usher, Building committee Chairman and the Relief Ministry program. "His love and faithfulness are remembered and celebrated here on earth, but Heaven's celebration is far greater today." Family members include his devoted wife of 58 years, Ann Robbins Baynard; his sons Tony Lee Baynard and Jeff Baynard and wife, Tina; daughter-in-law, Gaye Nell Baynard; his sister Dot Groce; his grandsons Will Baynard and Jake Everhart; his nieces and nephews, Susie Groce, Jackie Watkins, and Mark, Tim and Kim Martin; and his extended church family. The family will receive friends Friday, July 28th from 1:00 - 3:00 at Landmark Church of God. Funeral services to remember and celebrate Mr. Baynard's life will begin at 3:00 pm, conducted by the Pastors Ken Hudson, Ben Black and Phil Pearson. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Landmark Church of God, Building Fund, 2200 East Broad Street, Statesville, NC 28625, or the donor's choice. On-line condolences may be made to the family at www.whitleysfuneralhome.com. Whitley's Funeral Home is serving the Baynard family.