William Raleigh King

The heavens opened to receive William Raleigh King, 88, of Johnson City, Tennessee, on Tuesday, November 28, 2023. William, known by his friends and family as WR had survived his siblings Sue King Jones, Gwen King Hale, and Boyd King, all from Johnson City, and survived his youngest brother, Billy Joe King of Greensboro, NC. They celebrate his arrival in heaven and the angels sing as his earthly family weeps.

He is survived by the love of his life and devoted wife, Leova Holly King; his children, Kathy King Pitts (Ray) of Lake Royale, NC and Michelle King Montgomery (Todd) of Raleigh, NC; stepchildren, Ralph Saylor, Jr. (Shannon) of Hoschton, GA and Charles Saylor of Johnson City; twelve grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. WR and Loeva have numerous loving nieces and nephews throughout Johnson City, Shelton Laurel, Greensboro, Oakridge, NC, West Palm Beach, FL, Orlando, FL, Indiana, and Alabama.

Although William was born in Shelton Laurel, NC, he grew up in Johnson City. He relocated to Greensboro, NC where he worked and retired from the City of Greensboro and raised his family. He moved back to Johnson City in the late ‘90s and lived happily until the time of his death. He and Loeva both attended Ashbury Grammar School in Johnson City. They are members of East Pine Grove Park Methodist Church where a Celebration of Life will be held.

William was a kind and gentle spirit like no other earthly person. He already had his wings when he arrived here. His heart was full of goodness and love. He was a loving and endearing husband, father, and teacher of all things. He was a master storyteller and loved to tell a good joke. He was funny and easy going, lighthearted, and patient. WR was an animal whisperer who loved feeding his squirrels and birds who trusted him enough to eat right from his hands through the kitchen window. He spoke dog language somehow and always had companions throughout his life. He never met a stranger and would give the shirt off his back if he saw someone in need. He was just too good for this world. He often said that he was tired, and his body was just worn out. The family finds comfort in the fact that he lived a long and fruitful life and that was ready to go. He said had a blessed life and had been happy. He knew he was loved right up until the last minute, and he made sure we knew that he loved us too. He was at home in bed surrounded by family at the time of his passing. Exactly the way he wanted it.

Please join the family at East Pine Grove Park Methodist Church for a Celebration of Life on Sunday, January 7th 2024 at 2:00 pm (2215 E Unaka Ave, Johnson City).

If you wish to make a memorial contribution on behalf of WR, please support the Washington County Johnson City Animal Shelter (3411 N Roan St, Johnson City, TN 37601 or East Pine Grove Park Methodist Church.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve the King family. (423) 282-1521