William Ayden Creech

1925 - 2016

William Ayden Creech obituary, 1925-2016

FUNERAL HOME

Brown-Wynne Funeral Home & Crematory

300 Saint Mary's Street

Raleigh, North Carolina

William Creech Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 11, 2016.

William Ayden Creech ("Bill"), 91.

Bill Creech was born in his beloved hometown of Smithfield in Johnston County, North Carolina, on August 5, 1925, the youngest child of the late Corrie Emelia Hollingsworth Creech of Abbeville, South Carolina, and Charles Alderman Creech of Four Oaks. An older brother Thomson had wanted a bulldog puppy, instead. In the years ahead, though, Bill quickly won his brother over, like so many others with whom he came into contact. Bill was one of the warmest individuals imaginable, a friend to all, and a gentleman in the truest sense.

Bill spent his childhood in Smithfield during the Great Depression. As a youth, he sold peanuts in the tobacco warehouse and graduated from Smithfield High School at the age of sixteen. He attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, from which lifelong and cherished friendships resulted. He would later serve as a lecturer at North Carolina State University.

While at Chapel Hill, Bill volunteered for service in World War II, and honorably served his country in the United States Navy from 1945-46 in the Pacific, including the New Hebrides, New Caledonia, and the Solomon, Marshall, and Fiji Islands.

Following the war, in 1947, Bill attended the first International Summer School at the University of Oslo, Norway. During that time, he persuaded the Smithfield Herald to allow him to serve as a "foreign correspondent". Upon return, he provided an interview to the paper in which he asserted that "race hate must end", characteristic of the ideals and life he aspired to live.

Upon graduation from UNC in 1948, he became a one-man radio station in Smithfield and Selma, a role in which he performed when musicians did not show, and advertised aluminum pit privies.

In 1949, Bill entered the United States Foreign Service and served in Baghdad, Iraq. He considered the two years he spent in Iraq to be the "millennium" of his life, from which he told many captivating stories for decades to follow. He subsequently served as Economic Officer in the U.S. Embassy in London and studied at the City of London School of Law. Between assignments in Baghdad and London, he served as International Economist in the Near East and African Division of the U.S. Department of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

In 1955, Bill began his first of two periods of service as a staff member in the United States Senate in Washington. He first served as a staff member and then Counsel to the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business. While working, he attended and graduated from Georgetown University School of Law at night. He also enjoyed a very active social life, helping lead the Tar Heel Club and North Carolina Society.

In 1959, he entered the private practice of law, joining his uncle and cousin (Louis and Joe Levinson) in practice in downtown Smithfield.

In 1961, Senator Sam Ervin invited Bill to return to Washington as Chief Counsel and Staff Director for the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Constitutional Rights. In this impactful work, he oversaw numerous studies and hearings on civil rights and civil liberties under the Constitution, including the first studies undertaken by the Congress on the Constitutional Rights of the Mentally Ill, our Military personnel, and of American Indians.

During this time, then-U.S. Senator Hubert H. Humphrey, whom Bill had informally advised on the Near East, asked Bill to be the staff person accompanying the Humphreys for extensive meetings with ranking government officials in Greece, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Israel, including David Ben-Gurion and Golda Meir. Bill accompanied him to the Democratic National Convention (one of three conventions he attended), and served as a North Carolina key for Vice President Humphrey's 1968 Presidential campaign.

In the mid-1960's, Bill returned to private practice with Robinson O. Everett in Raleigh and Durham. He became active in the Bennett Place Centennial Committee and the Bentonville Centennial Committee, commemorations for which he helped host Vice President Humphrey in Raleigh and Durham, and three sitting United States Senators in Smithfield and Bentonville, respectively.

In 1966, Bill sought the Democratic nomination for U.S. Congress, when his home county was gerrymandered out of the district.

In 1968, Bill had the great fortune of marrying Sally Ann Wood, also of Smithfield, his bride of over 48 years.

Bill began elective public service in 1976, when he was elected to the North Carolina House of Representatives and then the North Carolina Senate, serving four years in each chamber. He was most satisfied in his work in further integrating the city and county schools and in authoring groundbreaking legislation to provide equal educational opportunities for exceptional children. Known as the "Creech Bill", the legislation has had a profound positive impact on children with disabilities and their families, and has served as an international model.

In 1982, Bill was appointed by Governor Jim Hunt and subsequently elected to the North Carolina District Court in Wake County, where he served for 14 years. In 1996, he became an Emergency District Court Judge, holding court in virtually every county in the State over the decade or more to follow. He benefitted from many devoted assistants, clerks, law enforcement officers, and fellow judges and members of the legal community with whom he came into contact at the Courthouse every day for nearly three decades.

Bill was an active Member of Edenton Street United Methodist Church, where he was instrumental in the formation of both the Child Development Center and the Adult Day Care Center.

Bill was active in civic and philanthropic organizations too numerous to adequately mention, including in the areas of social justice, the performing arts, international affairs and understanding, developmental disabilities, mental illness, the legal community, and anything to connect him to and with Smithfield and Johnston County. His involvement included work towards the accreditation of Campbell University, formation of the Cameron Park Association, moving the Historic Hastings House in Smithfield to the Town Commons, and service with Triangle World Affairs Council, United Nations Association, Lions Club, The Braxton-Craven Inns of Court, Wake County Bar Association, Legal Aid, Capitol Preservation Committee, Leonidas Lafayette Polk Home Foundation, Yates Mill Association, Friends of D.H. Hill Library of North Carolina State University (past-President), UNC-Wilmington, Meredith College, Wake Technical Community College, The Raleigh Boychoir, The North Carolina Symphony, The Raleigh Little Theater (past-President), Tuscarora Council of Boy Scouts of America, American Revolution Bicentennial Commission of North Carolina, The Wake County Historical Society, Methodist Home for Children, March of Dimes (State Chairman), Wake County Mental Health Society (Past-President), North Carolina Mental Health Association, Johnston County Heritage Center, Johnston County Board of Public Welfare, North Carolina and National Advisory Councils on Small Business, and The White House Conference on Small Business. In later years, and in retirement, he enjoyed time with friends and guests at the Capital City Club, University Club, Carolina Country Club, Surf Club, and Wrightsville Beach.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, his four brothers, Charles ("Buck"), Thomson, Mansfield, Marshall Ezekiel ("Zeke"), and his sisters Laura Pool (who died in infancy) and Elizabeth Holcombe Creech Gillette. He is survived by his wife Sally and their three sons: Laurance Faison Wood Creech and his wife Stephanie of Hickory, William Ezekiel Hollingsworth Creech and his wife Bess of Raleigh, and Charles Alderman Creech, II and his wife Robyn of Raleigh. He is survived by seven grandchildren: Chase, Zeke, Lilli, Katie Worth, Elizabeth, Hollings, and Mansfield. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Julia Lee Creech of Raleigh and Kinston, and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bill's defining characteristics were his interpersonal skills, and his gift of interest in and warmth towards others. Whomever you were, he took an interest in you and your family, and wanted to be a resource for you. He felt truly blessed for his full life, rich with experiences, opportunities, family, and friends.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Thursday evening, October 13, from 5:30-7:30pm, at the Borden House on the former Methodist Home property (Fletcher Park), 820 Clay Street, Raleigh. A Memorial Service will be held at Edenton Street United Methodist Church in Raleigh on Friday, October 14, at 1pm, with a visitation following the service. Burial will occur later Friday afternoon at Riverside Cemetery in Smithfield at 4:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the Methodist Home for Children, the Johnston County Heritage Center, and the Child Development Center of Edenton Street United Methodist Church. The family would like to give particular thanks and praise to those who provided special care to Bill in his final years, months, and days; thank you.

Arrangements by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, Saint Mary's St., Raleigh.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for William Creech

What is your first memory of William?

Share a favorite memory you have of William.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with William.

Describe a time when William made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about William?

Talk about a shared experience you had with William.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of William.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving William.

What is something you learned from William?

Not sure what to say?

October 5, 2023

Work

Miller Sigmon

Bill Creech was a fine man...and a good lawyer and a patient judge..I miss him..........

October 5, 2022

Friend

Miller Sigmon

I have












































I have such good memories of Judge Creech in the court room..He was firm but fair.and he was always polite to every one in his court room.........His values should be a role model for the new, young judges..
,

October 5, 2022

Family

Tracy Coffey

Oh Sweet Papa Bill. We still share stories of You & miss you so very very much. Give our Sweet Chase a Big Hug for us. We love & miss You. ~ Tracy

October 5, 2020

Miller Sigmon

Judge Creech was a wonderful man , attorney , and judge..He was able to balance compassion with respect for the law... He is missed..

June 24, 2019

Teresa N.

A kind fair man. God Bless.

October 31, 2016

Ansgar Berger

Sincere condolences to the whole family. This sad message received me via Vandy Bradow.
Thinking back to my guest year, I was staying at the Bradow family as an exchange student in 1992,
it was a great chance to get to know William Creech and his family while I also was staying with them
for a month in summer 1992. In remembrance of a very kind man and caring person.

October 30, 2016

Miller Sigmon

Judge Creech was always a gentleman in the courtroom..respectful of attorneys ,as well as pro se litigants....He was firm if necessary, but always courteous..He had a long and distinguished career...He will be missed ..My condolences to his family...

October 18, 2016

Bradley Schulz

Judge Creech was an respected member of the Bar and Judiciary. Having practiced law in Smithfield for 25 years, I had the opportunity to try cases in front of him as an elected Judge in Raleigh, and thereafter in other locations as a Special. He had a wonderful way of reducing tension in the courtroom, even in very contested matters. He was an excellent mentor and role model for young attorneys, and always a gentleman. He also loved talking about the history of Smithfield and Johnston County, during any down time from court. My condolences to his entire family.

October 18, 2016

AS Williams

So sorry to hear about Bill. He went to school with my dad (Raymond Williams ) I recall he contacted me after reading a article in Hamlet news.I recall him coming to visit and I did visit him a few times. I always enjoy reading his article in Hamlet News.I enjoyed his telling me of life in Hamlet. I shall pry for family.

October 17, 2016

David and Jeanne Smoot

Bill was a distinguished and able gentleman and public servant whom all will remember. Sincere condolences to Sally, their sons and all the family.

October 17, 2016

David and Jeanne Smoot

Bill was an outstanding individual, gifted in so many ways who gave back to his community and nation time and time again. Sincere condolences to Sally and their sons and all the family.

October 17, 2016

Edward Alexander

Bill was bigger than life to me...always kind and considerate..a wonderful neighbor , a friend to so many.
Thanks for the Memories to both Bill and to Sallie

October 16, 2016

Vandy Bradow

My husband and I met Bill Creech when he and Sally hosted our German exchange student for a few weeks.We were greeted as if kin. A more gracious host or more exemplary Southern gentleman I never met. I know his family has many wonderful memories to cherish. They also have my deepest sympathy.

October 16, 2016

Bill Creech was a true gentleman. When I heard about his death I was reminded of what Ted Kennedy said at Bobby Kennedy's mass "He was a good and decent man who saw wrong and tried to right it, saw suffering and tried to stop.it

October 16, 2016

DEWEY SHEFFIELD

My heart is filled with sadness at the lose of Bill Creech. I knew him for over a half of a century and he was always a pleasure to be around. His great service to North Carolina as a state representative, state senator and as a judge is one great legacy. He will be long remembered by all of us who knew him. My deepest sympathy to his family.

October 13, 2016

May Winborne-Rice

So sad to read this!!!! I loved seeing him at the club when I would go with Dick Rice. we would sit together and he would tell us stories.. Such a nice Sweet Man!!!! My thoughts go out to you Sally and the family.. sending warm thoughts... May Winborne-Rice

October 13, 2016

Monty Pollard

I think this sentence from Brother Bill's obituary says it so well, "Bill was one of the warmest individuals imaginable, a friend to all, and a gentleman in the truest sense."

I am honored to have known this wonderful man. Rest In Peace.

Monty Pollard

October 13, 2016

Bruce Lightner

A finer gentleman I never knew. Judge Creech was the noble ambassador of Raleigh and he always carried himself with dignity and grace. He and my late Father were good friends and on more than one occasion Judge Creech would be a guest in our home.

For the life of me, I can't picture walking down Fayetteville Street and not running into The Judge. He was simply bigger than life and a joy to be around.

Rest in Peace Judge,

Bruce Lightner
Raleigh, North Carolina

October 13, 2016

Lyn Adams (Sr)

It is with a great sense of sadness that I heard of the passing of Bill Creech. He was a friend of so many, and the finest servant and comforter to all he knew. My prayers, sympathy, and condolences go out to his family and friends. He was truly the finest of men and greatest of blessings to all who have ever known him. He will be missed and always remembered for his kindness and amazing grace.

October 13, 2016

Judge Creech was such a fine man and always so kind and gracious to me. I always appreciated any interaction with him. He was a "jewel" and they don't make'em like that anymore. My thoughts and prayers are with Sally Creech and the family. Jon Carr

October 13, 2016

Sherry Rosser

Judge Creech will certainly be missed by his family, friends and colleagues. He was a true asset to this world. Prayers for comfort and peace to the family.

October 13, 2016

NOFO Cafe

We are so sad to think that Judge Creech will not be coming into NOFO Cafe on Mondays for soup and ice cream. Our staff, as well as many of our customers are sending your family our deepest sympathy. What a true southern gentleman!

October 13, 2016

So saddened to learn of Bill's passing. What a true caring and loving man he was and always made everyone feel special. Was Blessed to have known him. He will be truly missed.
God be with each of you and grant you peace
Lidah Johnson
Smithfield, NC

October 13, 2016

Robinson Everett Jr.

Judge Creech was a dear friend to our family -- and to everyone he ever met! A true Southern gentleman, and one of the most joyful, kindest persons we will ever know, he will be sorely missed. However, I am quite sure he and my father are laughing together right now. Condolences and much love from the Everett family. - Rob

October 13, 2016

So sorry for your loss. What a good long, long life Bill enjoyed. So many cannot say the same. He was one of those the Bible call especially strong. Ps. 90:10
May the God who gives hope fill you with all joy and peace by your trusting in Him.
Rom. 15:13

October 13, 2016

Sean Johnson

Judge Creech was a great friend of my grandmother Nancy Johnson. I chose him to admit me to the bar and he gave me a great welcome to the practice of law.
He was an emergency judge on a case of mine in rural Graham County and had forgotten to pack cuff links, and asked where could he buy some in Robbinsville.
He ended up wearing paper clips as the town had none for sale.
I was in his courtroom in Swain county when a grandchild was born and he was so excited, but he professionally finished court before dashing off to home.
He was an old school gentleman. He was consevative but politics did not enter into his decisions. The bench and the world are worse off without his presence.
My condolences to his family from a man who was once a young lawyer who benefited from his guidance.
Sean A. Iredell Johnson

October 13, 2016

Ben Huger

During the early part of my career as a police officer I often had court with Judge Creech. He never failed to keep my attention in all of the mayhem of District Court. He would patiently listen to a defendant's story no matter how convoluted the tale. This, of course, slowed the train down which would aggravate the DAs and defenese attorneys. But it made for great entertainment. If they would have allowed me to bring in popcorn and a coke and kick my shoes off I would have been in his court every week. A good man.

October 12, 2016

Charlotte Watson Johnston

To Judge Creech's family: I was so sad to learn of his death and send my heartfelt sympathy. His contributions to our county, state and country are greatly appreciated. He was a noble gentlemen who will be missed.

Charlotte Watson Johnston

October 12, 2016

I first met Judge Creech when I was a young boy, I played sports with his sons. He was the definition of a Gentleman and was an incredible man! I would like to offer my my most sincere condolences to the family and pray God blesses you all during this difficult time!

God Bless
Tom Buckner

October 12, 2016

Lewanna Stout

North Carolina can not thank Senator Bill Creech enough for the introduction of the "Creech Bill" in the 1970's which gave all handicapped children in N C the right to an equal education. We all thank you Bill. I loved his smile and graciousness. What a great man of our time.

October 12, 2016

Lewanna Stout

October 12, 2016

TRACY COFFEY

Thank you Bill for always including us in your family. You were & will always be remembered as a beautiful human; a true gentleman; & a gift to this world. We will forever miss you; your laugh, your smile & your kind heart. May God hold the entire Creech family close in the days, weeks, months & years ahead.

Love & Prayers, Tracy & Autumn Coffey

October 12, 2016

Theresa Hamilton-Power

Such an amazing gentlemen!! I have such fond memories. I will miss that smile, all of the stories, his amazing hugs and him dearly! -- with nothing but love, Theresa Hamilton-Power

October 12, 2016

My sincere condolences to the family. May you find comfort from the words at Psalm 116:15

October 12, 2016

Laura Lee Barnes

Bill was such a true inspiration. I will miss his stories and him dearly. Love always, Lee Barnes

Showing 1 - 35 of 35 results

Make a Donation
in William Creech's name

Memorial Events
for William Creech

Oct

14

Visitation

Edenton Street United Methodist Church

Raleigh, NC

Oct

14

Memorial service

1:00 p.m.

Edenton Street United Methodist Church

Raleigh, NC

Funeral services provided by:

Brown-Wynne Funeral Home & Crematory

300 Saint Mary's Street, Raleigh, NC 27605

How to support William's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor William Creech's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more