William Irving Washington, a veteran of the Korean War and longtime resident of Blackstone, Virginia, departed this life on April 15, 2024, at the VA hospital in Richmond, Virginia. “Billy,” as he was affectionately known to many in the area, was born January 10, 1934, to the late Randall and Malissa (Scruggs) Washington and attended Jetersville Public Schools before enlisting in the U.S. Army.

As a 19-year-old private, for the Army, William saw action in Germany and Korea, and he had many amazing stories of his time there. William was deployed in support of the Korean War. William was maneuvering in the Chungcheong valley across a ridge with his unit, I Company, 3rd Battalion, 180th infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division “Thunderbird” to reinforce another company that had been engaged by the North Korean forces. While under attack William’s rifle jammed and while clearing his weapon, indirect enemy ordnance exploded in front of him, peppering his left side with hot molten lead shrapnel. He was medically evacuated to Japan where he later recovered and returned to “non-combat duty” in Korea.

William served for another nine years after his combat tour spending a total of ten years in the military. He received his purple heart over five decades later for his dedication and bravery on March 25, 2005, at Fort Lee, Virginia.

William worked many years as a truck driver for various companies. He retired with Tatum’s Hauling.

William was preceded in death by his former wife Mary lee Clark-Washington; Five brothers: Louis, Lee Roy, James, Russell and Allen. Two Son-in-laws; Joseph Crowder and Milton Haskins. Two grandchildren; Mark and Andrew Crowder.

He is survived by his long-time friend, Estelle Giles; his daughters, Vanessa Crowder of Blackstone, VA, Betty Haskins of Richmond, VA, Evelyn Giles of Blackstone, VA, Josephine Green (William) of Kernersville, NC, Sandra Giles and Rachel Giles of Rice, VA. He also leaves to cherish his beloved brother Joseph Washington of Fayetteville, NC and his only beloved sister Audrey Walker of Monmouth Junction, NJ. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren. Sister-in-law Ruth Washington. Devoted friend O.D. “Dee” Duncanson and family. Friends Gary Compton, Marie Perry and Velma Jennings. Friends Wilbur Oulds, George “Dick” Robinson and other beloved relatives and friends.