Obituary of William Thomas Rives

Chapel Hill - William Thomas Rives, "Hankie", passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 8, 2015. Born on July 1, 1936, to Eston and Maudie Woodson Rives. Married on September 10, 1955, to the late Frances Pendergraft Rives. Together they had five children: William Stephen, who died a few days after birth, Eston Eugene Rives, Bradley Thomas Rives, passed away in March 2006, Shari Rives Smith and Larry Dwayne Rives. Surviving are 9 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, which he visited often. William had two brothers: James Travis Rives and Bobby Frank Rives and one sister: Ann Rives Shytle. William served in the US Marine Reserves. He started working for his father and acquired knowledge and skills of the carpentry industry. After his father passed away he decided to work for the UNC Fiscal Plant where he retired in 2002. William, along with James, Bobby, and Ann acquired the family property. For the past 16 years, William was the one who did the hard work that needed to be done. William took many good habits from his mother. He could cook a fabulous meal, plant a garden and then would freeze or can the fruits and vegetables that he had grown. His father taught him the carpentry trade, which was very helpful when it came to helping others. He took mini vacations with his daughter, Shari. He spent time with his sister, Ann, working at the family home and eating many lunches. He also loved to fish and hunt with his friends, many of whom have also passed away. William made many friends and was liked by all. William will always be missed and remembered by his family and friends. His kindness, dependability and caring ways will always be remembered. Although he is no longer here, William will remain in our hearts forever. Funeral services will be held from the graveside at the Sparrows Mt. Carmel Baptist Church Cemetery on Monday at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lineberger Cancer Center at UNC Hospital. The family is being served by Walker's Funeral Service and Cremation of Chapel Hill, NC.