William J. Gainey (89) of Jacksonville, NC went to be with our Lord and Savior Sunday, September 27, 2026, surrounded by his family, at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center. There will be no services at this time. 

Bill was born August 21, 1937, in Chesterfield County, SC to the late Ellen and Jiles Gainey.

In life Bill honorably served in the United States Marine Corps before retiring as a Gunnery Sergeant and was also a Third-Degree Master Mason.

Bill was known for being a loving son, husband, father, Pawpaw and Great Pawpaw, always putting the needs of his family first.

Bill is preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Marie Gainey and his stepson, Wayne Sapp.

He leaves behind his children; John T. Gainey (Sarah) of Jacksonville, NC, William R. Gainey (Julie) of Jacksonville, NC, Kenneth E. Sapp of California, Mary M. Gainey of Hope Mills, NC, Billie Ann Crochet (Pat) of Columbia, SC, Ellen J. Ange (Randy) of Virginia Beach, VA, Victoria A. McRae of Ashville, NC, Gloria J. Thompson (Terry) of Stella, NC, 16 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and many loving family and friends.