William George Walsh, 73, died Friday, May 18, 2012, at his home in Pinehurst.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 23, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Southern Pines.
He was born August 12, 1938, to Mary Kay Walsh (Flanagan) and William Joseph Walsh in Chicago. He earned a BA in economics at Georgetown University in 1960, where he met his wife, Ursula (Yeip), whom he married in August 1963.
Bill served as an officer in the U.S. Naval Air Force as a navigator, stationed first out of Barber’s Point NAS, Hawaii, then Glenview NAS, Ill.
After serving his country, he worked in the Sears Advertising Group where he became head of the national advertising department. He was named vice president of advertising and marketing for Dean Witter Financial Services and helped launch Discover Card Services. He retired in 1998, moving to Pinehurst. Before retiring, he was treasurer of Spring Creek Basset Hunt Club in Barrington, Ill., and later treasurer of the National Beagle Club. He also worked with the homeless in northwest Illinois.
After retirement, he was on the FirstHealth Hospice Board of the Carolinas, volunteered in the FirstHealth Cardiac Rehab Program and continued his work with the homeless as part of the Sandhills Interfaith Hospitality Network.
Additionally, he was a reader for the blind, served as treasurer of the Moore County Driving Club and enjoyed 11 years as an exhibit interpreter at the N.C. Zoo Aviary.
He leaves behind his wife, Ursula; and four children, Malachy, Sheila, Christopher and Peter; grandchildren, Reagan, Conor, Charlie, Vivi, Grady and Liam; and younger siblings, Jan Hawkins and Malachy Walsh.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to FirstHealth Hospice or FirstHealth Cardiac Rehab Program.
Online condolences may be made at www.bolesfuneralhome.com.
Boles Funeral Home and Crematory of Southern Pines is serving the family.