Bill Ottaway, 87, (he insisted he was 29 and holding) sped off into the sunset in his blue S10 truck that he loved, his favorite guitar, and bluegrass music playing to be with his Mom Leona, Dad Jasper, and brother Jim. A funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, July 26th, 2025, at Jones Funeral Home Chapel in Holly Ridge with Pastor Andy Ottaway and Namon Batts officiating. Burial will follow the funeral service at the Ottaway Family Cemetery.

Bill who painted cars for a living was a one-of-a-kind original.  He was happiest when he was playing guitar with his buddies in their bluegrass band, Carolina Connection.  When he wasn't pickin he loved hanging out with friends and family making everyone laugh with his stories and jokes.  He was a fan of drag racing and Nascar, and an even bigger fan of Donald Trump.

Bill leaves behind his patient and wonderful wife, who deserves an award, Barbara.  Three strong willed daughters, Kelby, Shelby, and Debbie.  Son-in-Law's Mike and Nelson.  Grandkids Tyler, Amanda, Hannah, Tucker, Landon, Kevin, and Kyle.  Great Grandson Mason, who has no idea of what kind of legacy he is inheriting.  Piper, his beloved Dachshund, the only family dog that liked him.

He also leaves behind a brother, Pastor Andy Ottaway and wife Elizabeth.  Three sisters, Rosa Lea Batts, Agnes Leonard, and Linda Bullard.  As well as numerous nieces and nephews.

It was always a joke that Bill had used all of his nine lives and was on number sixteen.  He lived his life on his terms, like it or not.  He may not have said it often but he loved all of those close to him, so in his honor keep telling stories and laughing.

Also, we want to extend a special thank you to Mrs. Susan for spending so much time with Bill in his last life.  As well as his nurses from Lower Cape Fear Lifecare, Rachel and Jasmine.  We know he kept you all on your toes.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lower Cape Fear Life Care Center:1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401.